12mm Ball Screw for Compact Precision Motion
The 12mm ball screw is designed for compact linear motion systems where space is limited but smooth movement, transmission efficiency and positioning stability are still required. It is commonly used in small CNC machines, automation equipment, laboratory devices, medical equipment, semiconductor-related mechanisms and other small or medium-sized precision transmission systems.
For example, in model 1204, "12" refers to the outer diameter of the screw shaft, and "04" refers to the lead. Different lead options such as 1202, 1204, 1205, 1210 and 1220 can be selected according to the required speed, resolution, motor matching and application load.
DLY can provide 12mm ball screws with custom length, single nut or double nut options, and end machining according to standard drawings or customer drawings.
Technical Parameters
The following two parameter tables are retained from the original product page because they provide useful reference data for model confirmation and 12mm ball screw selection.
Model explanation: For model 1204, "12" is the outer diameter and "04" is the lead.
- Accuracy class: C5, C7, C10
- Process: rolling process
- Material: medium carbon steel S55C
- Diameter range: 12mm-80mm
- Custom length available
- Single nut or double nut options
- Shaft ends can be processed according to DLY standards or customer requirements
Parameter notes: I = lead, Da = bead diameter, n = bead circle number, K = rigidity, Ca = dynamic rated load, Coa = static rated load.
| Model | d | I | Da | D | A | B | L | W | X | H | Q | N | Ca | Coa | K |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SFU1204-3 | 12 | 4 | 2.381 | 24/22 | 40 | 10 | 35 | 32 | 4.5 | 30 | M6 | 4 | 593 | 1129 | 12.5 |
12mm Ball Screw Model Selection Table
The table below keeps the original 12mm series data and makes it easier to compare lead, bead diameter, accuracy class, thread direction, standard screw number and applicable nut type.
| Outer Diameter D | Lead I | Bead Diameter Da | Lead Accuracy Class | Thread Direction | Number of Teeth | Standard Screw Number | Applicable Nut Type | Longest Screw Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 2 | 1.2 | C10, C7 | R | 1 | SCR01202 | K | 4000 |
| 4 | 2.5 | C10, C7 | R | 1 | SCR01204 | U, BSH | ||
| 5 | 2.5 | C10, C7 | R | 1 | SCR01205 | V, U, BSH, H, A | ||
| 10 | 2.5 | C10, C7 | R | 1 | SCR01210-B | V | ||
| 20 | 2.5 | C10, C7 | R | 4 | SCR01220 | Y |
Product Features
The ball screw converts rotary motion into linear motion, or linear motion into rotary motion. Compared with sliding screw systems, the rolling contact structure gives ball screws lower friction, smoother running and higher transmission efficiency.
Applications of 12mm Ball Screws
A 12mm ball screw is usually selected for compact and light-to-medium duty motion systems. It is not only a standard transmission component, but also a key factor affecting positioning stability, running feel and long-term reliability of the equipment.
| Application | Why 12mm Ball Screw Is Used | Selection Reminder |
|---|---|---|
| Small CNC machines | Supports precise feed movement of worktables or tool axes. | Confirm stroke, rigidity, support method and backlash requirement. |
| Automation equipment | Used for compact positioning, pushing, lifting or transfer mechanisms. | Check load, speed, duty cycle and motor torque. |
| Semiconductor equipment | Provides stable motion for precision positioning mechanisms. | Pay attention to accuracy, cleanliness and vibration control. |
| Medical equipment | Suitable for compact movement systems requiring smooth and controlled motion. | Consider noise, lubrication, reliability and environment. |
| Laboratory and measuring devices | Useful for fine adjustment and repeatable linear movement. | A smaller lead may be better when resolution is more important than speed. |
Material, Hardness and Heat Treatment
Material, heat treatment and surface hardness affect the wear resistance, service life and movement quality of the ball screw. DLY focuses on stable screw shaft processing, nut matching and inspection before shipment.
| Part Name | Material | Heat Treatment | Hardness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Precision grade ball screw | 50CrMo4 QT | Medium frequency heat treatment | HRC 60-64 |
| Ball screw | S55C | Medium frequency heat treatment | HRC 60-64 |
| Nut | SCM415H | Carburizing heat treatment | HRC 58-62 |
| Nut | 20CrMo | Vacuum heat treatment | HRC 60-64 |
Lubrication and Dust Protection
Proper lubrication helps reduce wear, heat and running noise. For general use, grease or oil should be selected according to speed, load, temperature and working environment. Before replenishing lubricant, visible old grease and dirt on the screw shaft should be wiped off.
Dust protection is also important for small ball screws. When foreign matter or moisture enters the ball nut, wear may accelerate and the screw may be damaged in severe cases. For dusty working conditions, additional covers, bellows or machine-side protection should be considered.
| Lubrication Method | Inspection Interval | Inspection Items | Replenishment or Replacement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automatic interval oil feeding | Every 1 week | Oil quantity and dirt | Replenish during each inspection, depending on oil tank capacity. |
| Grease | Initial 2-3 months of work | Whether foreign matter is mixed in | Usually replenished every year, adjusted according to inspection results. |
| Oil bath | Before daily commencement | Oil level management | Replenish according to consumption. |
FAQ
Q: What does 1204 mean in a ball screw model?
A: In model 1204, "12" means the screw outer diameter is 12mm, and "04" means the lead is 4mm.
Q: Should I choose 1204 or 1210?
A: 1204 is more balanced for compact precision movement, while 1210 is better when faster travel is required. The final choice should consider load, speed, stroke, motor torque and positioning requirement.
Q: Can DLY machine the shaft ends?
A: Yes. DLY can process shaft ends according to standard drawings or customer drawings, including turning steps, threads, keyways, flat positions and snap ring grooves.
Q: Can 12mm ball screws be customized in length?
A: Yes. DLY can provide custom length according to the required total length, effective stroke and end machining dimensions.
Need Help Selecting a 12mm Ball Screw?
Send us your required model, total length, stroke, load, speed, installation direction and end machining drawing. DLY can help confirm a suitable 12mm ball screw option for your equipment.
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