Technical Support

1. What is the difference between a ball spline and a ball screw spline?

A ball spline transmits torque along a spline shaft while allowing free linear motion (low friction, high rigidity, 4-point contact balls). A ball screw spline combines a ball screw and ball spline in one unit, providing both rotary indexing and accurate linear feed. Choose a ball spline for pure torque + linear motion; choose a ball screw spline when you need rotary positioning with linear feed.

2. How do I select the right shaft diameter?

Key inputs: torque to transmit (Nm), radial/axial load (N), stroke, rotational speed and mounting style. For miniature space, UVT offers the world's smallest Φ3mm ball spline (one of only two manufacturers worldwide). Our engineers provide free sizing support within 1 business day.

3. Limited stroke vs infinite stroke - which one do I need?

Limited stroke (LST) splines are compact and ideal for short-stroke, high-frequency reciprocation (e.g. SMT nozzle shafts). Infinite stroke (IST) splines allow free stroke along the shaft for pick-and-place and gantry applications.

4. What is the service life?

Life depends on working conditions (load, speed, acceleration, stroke). Our Φ4mm non-standard spline has achieved 500 million reciprocations under severe conditions. Always evaluate life with your actual duty cycle - we provide life calculation support with working-condition data.

5. Can UVT make non-standard or custom ball splines?

Yes. We specialize in non-standard customization: custom shaft diameter and length, flange type, integrated modules, special materials (stainless steel) and surface treatments (PVD, DLC, black oxide). Flexible MOQ; prototype delivery in 2-3 weeks.

6. Do you support replacing TBI / THK / NB / IKO ball splines?

Yes. UVT ball splines are designed as direct replacements for major brands in common sizes with identical mounting dimensions. Send your current model number and drawings for a compatibility check.

7. What are the typical applications?

Semiconductor packaging & IC test equipment, SMT mounters, AI component inserters, medical devices, robotics (humanoid and massage robots), machine tools and automated lines - any small-space, high-speed, high-precision motion requirement.

8. Do you provide 2D/3D drawings?

Yes. 2D and 3D CAD files are available in our Download Center after quick registration. Visit /en/download to get the files.

9. What is the lead time?

Standard products: 3-7 days. Non-standard customization: 2-4 weeks depending on complexity. Urgent support is available for line-down situations.

10. How do I get a quotation?

Send your requirements (model, shaft diameter, stroke, load, quantity) via the Contact form or WhatsApp/WeChat +86 17322111999. Quotation is usually provided within 1 business day.

11. What surface treatments are available?

UVT offers PVD, DLC, black oxide and anti-rust options. For semiconductor clean-room environments, stainless steel shafts without anti-rust oil are recommended.

12. Can I get engineering support before purchase?

Yes. Our application engineers provide free selection guidance, life calculation and compatibility checking. Contact us for technical consultation.

Need help with selection or a quotation?

Contact UVT  |  Download 2D/3D drawings  |  View application cases