Here is the standard procedure to ensure a smooth, professional installation.

1. Preparation and Cleaning

Before you begin, ensure your workspace is clean. Dust or metal shavings are the enemies of linear motion.

• Inspect the Rail: Check the rail for any nicks or burrs.

• Clean Surfaces: Wipe down the rail and the block mounting surface with a lint-free cloth and a light degreaser or machine oil.

• Keep the Plastic Mandrel: Most new blocks come with a plastic ''dummy rail'' (mandrel) inserted. Do not remove this until you are ready to slide the block onto the actual rail. It keeps the ball bearings from falling out.

2. Alignment and Initial Mounting

Align the rail with the block so that the raceways on both components match perfectly.

• Butt the Mandrel to the Rail: Press the end of the plastic mandrel directly against the end of the steel rail. Ensure there is no gap and that they are perfectly aligned.

• The Transfer: Gently slide the block from the mandrel onto the rail. It should move with very little resistance.

  • Note: If you feel a ''clunk'' or significant resistance, stop immediately. Re-align and try again to avoid dislodging a bearing.

3. Securing the Block to the Carriage

Once the block is on the rail, you will typically bolt it to your mounting plate or carriage.

• Finger Tighten: Place your carriage on top of the block(s) and insert the mounting bolts. Tighten them by hand first to allow for slight self-alignment.

• Standard Tightening Pattern: Use a ''cross'' or ''star'' pattern to tighten the bolts. This prevents the block from tilting or skewing during the process.

• Torque to Spec: Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's recommended values. Over-tightening can deform the block, while under-tightening can lead to loose fasteners over time.

4. Final Testing and Lubrication

A mounted block should never be run ''dry'' for extended periods.

• Stroke Test: Slide the carriage back and forth along the full length of the rail. It should feel consistent and smooth.

• Lubricate: Use a grease gun to apply the specified lubricant through the grease nipple on the end of the block. Move the block while lubricating to ensure the grease coats all the internal ball bearings.

Parallel Guides: If you are mounting multiple rails in parallel, use a dial indicator to ensure they are perfectly parallel to one another. Even a small misalignment can cause the blocks to ''bind'' as they move.

Operate and maintain a wide range of workshop machinery, including lathes, mills and other fabrication equipment.

Utilize hand tools, measuring instruments, and carry out machining techniques with precision and efficiency.

Perform the fabrication, assembly, maintenance, and installation of mechanical components.

Implement preventative maintenance schedules for workshop equipment.

Maintain a safe and organized work environment, adhering to all safety protocols.

Prepare and interpret technical drawings and schematics.

Document workshop procedures and maintain accurate records.

May assist with training less experienced technicians.

Participate in design & fabrication discussions, follow industry standard processes.

Other ad-hoc tasks as required (e.g. periodic stock take)

5.5-day work week, with scheduled half-day Saturday

Opportunity for overtime work with equivalent remuneration.

Qualifications:

Diploma in Mechanical Engineering Technology or a related field (or equivalent experience).

Minimum 2-3 years of experience working in a mechanical engineering workshop environment.

Proven ability to operate and maintain a variety of workshop machinery.

Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles and practices.

Excellent hand-eye coordination, mechanical aptitude, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

A valid driver's license may be preferred.

Speak, Read & Write conversational English or Mandarin.

Can read & understand or prepare GD&T drawings, 2D Plan drawings, 3D Isometric drawings.

What We Offer:

A competitive salary and benefits package with overtime pay.

Opportunity to work on a wide variety of engineering projects.

A well-equipped workshop with access to industry standard machinery and tools.

The chance to build a rewarding career in the field of mechanical engineering.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your motivation for pursuing a career with us.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company.

Maintaining your linear guide is crucial for ensuring its service life, optimal performance, and equipment accuracy. Linear motion products are essential components in many industrial applications, including machine tools, robotics, and automated systems. Performing proper maintenance reduces friction, preventing premature wear and minimizing the risk of system failures.

1.Regular Inspection and Cleaning

Check for Wear and Damage: Perform regular inspections of the linear guide surfaces for any signs of wear, such as scratches, dents and corrosion. This can be done visually or with the help of precision measurement equipment. Any damage should be addressed promptly to prevent further deterioration.

Inspect Seals: Ensure that the seals on the linear guide block are intact and free from damage. Seals prevent dust and other contaminants from entering the ball bearing track, which can cause wear and reduce its operating lifespan.

Clean Surfaces: Accumulated dust and debris can impair the smooth operation of the linear guide. Use a soft brush or a clean, non-abrasive cloth to remove dust and dirt from the linear guide’s surface. For more stubborn contaminants, a mild, non-corrosive cleaner can be used, followed by thorough drying and re-application of lubrication to prevent rust.
 

2.Lubrication

Apply the Right Lubricant: Proper lubrication is essential for reducing friction and wear. Use a high-quality lubricant that is suitable for linear guides. Most linear guide blocks come with a lubrication port or grease nipple.
 

3.Troubleshooting and Replacement

Monitor for Signs of Wear: Regularly check the linear guide for signs of wear, such as increased noise, vibration, or reduced accuracy. These are clear indicators that the linear guide requires immediate maintenance or replacement.

What is Case Hardening?

Case hardening is a heat treatment process used to selectively harden the surface of a metal, usually low-carbon steel.  The goal is to create a part with the following qualities:

• Hard, wear-resistant surface: This outer layer offers superior resistance to scratches, abrasion, denting, and fatigue caused by repetitive stress.
• Tough, ductile core: The inner core maintains higher ductility and toughness, providing the part with the ability to absorb impacts and resist deformation without breaking.

Benefits of Case Hardening

• Enhanced Wear Resistance: The hardened surface dramatically improves resistance to abrasion, scratches, and indentation.
• Improved Fatigue Strength: Case hardening helps prevent cracks from forming and propagating under repetitive stress and loads, extending the part's lifespan.
• Maintains Core Toughness: Unlike through hardening, the core remains relatively soft, providing shock resistance and preventing catastrophic brittle fractures.
• Cost-Effective: It's often more cost-efficient to case harden a low-carbon, less expensive steel than to use a high-carbon steel for the entire component.

Machining Considerations

• Hardened outer surface will increase tool wear on O.D. Turning operations such as parting, grooving, facing.
• Recommend use of specialised turning inserts (e.g. CBN Tipped inserts)
• Suitable for griding operations (e.g. Cut-Off wheel, surface grinding flat features)
• Ductile core allows end drilling & tapping without the need for specialised tooling.

Swing Doors

+ Lowest Cost Option
+ Single Hand operation
- Requires largest clearance Space

Slide & Fold Doors

+ Require only half clearance space
Two Hand operation

Sliding Doors

+ Zero forward clearance    space required
- Obstructs access space     (depend on # of panels)

Lifting Doors

+ Zero forward clearance    space required
- Requires equivalent clearance     above enclosure

Both linear shafts and linear rails are used for linear motion, but there are some key differences between them:

Linear shafts:

• Simple design: A round shaft made of steel, stainless steel, or hardened chrome.
• Lower cost: Generally cheaper than linear rails.
• Easy to install: Can be supported by bearings or bushings.
• Less accurate: Can bend or deflect under load, leading to less precise motion.
• Lower load capacity: Not suitable for high-load applications.
• Higher friction: Requires more lubrication than linear rails.
• Limited self-alignment: Can twist or rotate under load, requiring additional components to prevent it.

Linear rails:

• More complex design: Consists of a hardened steel rail with rolling elements like ball bearings or rollers.
• Higher cost: More expensive than linear shafts.
• More difficult to install: Requires precise alignment and mounting.
• More accurate: Offers more precise and consistent motion due to its rigid design.
• Higher load capacity: Can handle heavier loads than linear shafts.
• Lower friction: Requires less lubrication than linear shafts.
• Self-aligning: Some types of linear rails can self-align, compensating for minor misalignment.

Key differences:

Choosing between linear shafts and linear rails:

The best choice for your application will depend on several factors, including:

• Required level of accuracy and precision
• Expected load
• Budget
• Complexity of installation
• Need for self-alignment

Here are some general guidelines:

• Use linear shafts for:
  • Low-cost applications
  • Simple designs
  • Light loads
  • Non-critical applications where high accuracy is not required
• Use linear rails for:
  • High-precision applications
  • Heavy loads
  • Complex designs
  • Applications requiring self-alignment

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

• Linear rails vs. linear rods – which are better? https://www.matara.com/technical-articles/linear-rail-faqs/
• Round shaft or profiled rail for linear motion? How to choose https://www.linearmotiontips.com/round-shaft-or-profiled-rail-how-to-choose/
• Linear Ways vs Linear Rails vs Linear Rods (Im searched out and still lost) https://www.cnczone.com/forums/linear-and-rotary-motion/167612-cnc.html

Lean pipe and joint systems offer numerous advantages for various industries, including manufacturing, warehousing, retail, and logistics.

Key benefits:

Flexibility:

• Easy to assemble and reconfigure without welding or special tools
• Modular design allows for quick adjustments and modifications to meet changing needs
• Can be easily adapted to different layouts and spaces
• Ideal for dynamic environments where processes and workflows frequently evolve
• Compatible with many existing structures and racking systems

Cost-effectiveness:

• Relatively inexpensive materials and components compared to traditional welded structures
• Reduced installation and maintenance costs due to simplicity
• Scalable solutions can be built to accommodate growth without significant investment
• Minimized waste through reuse and repurposing of components

Improved efficiency:

• Streamlined material flow and reduced travel distances due to customizable layouts
• Optimized workspaces for better ergonomics and productivity
• Enhanced organization and visual management of materials and tools
• Reduced setup times for production changes

Safety:

• Smoother surfaces and rounded edges minimize the risk of injuries
• Lightweight components are easier to handle and maneuver
• Ergonomically designed workstations help prevent musculoskeletal disorders

Sustainability:

• Durable and long-lasting materials require minimal replacement
• Many components are recyclable, contributing to a closed-loop system
• Lean principles promote waste reduction and resource optimization

Additional advantages:

• Improved working environment: Clean and organized workspace promotes employee satisfaction
• Increased visibility and communication: Open design facilitates collaboration and problem-solving
• Enhanced quality control: Standardized processes minimize errors and improve consistency
• Easy cleaning and maintenance: Smooth surfaces facilitate cleaning and sanitation
   

Here are some specific examples of how lean pipe and joint systems are used to improve efficiency and productivity:

• Assembly lines: Create customized workstations with adjustable heights and angles for improved ergonomics
• Inventory management: Build flow racks and storage systems for efficient product organization and retrieval
• Material handling: Design carts and trolleys for optimized material flow throughout the facility
• Workbenches: Build adjustable workbenches with storage shelves and tool holders for improved ergonomics and efficiency
• Retail displays: Create flexible and modular displays that can be easily adapted to different products and promotions

Lean pipe and joint systems offer a versatile and cost-effective solution for improving productivity, efficiency, and safety in any industry.

Adopt Wheeler Mectrade's Aluminum Pipe & Joint system today!

What is ''Lean Methodology''?

1. Identify value: Define what value is from the customer's perspective.
2. Map the value stream: Identify all the steps in the process that creates and delivers value to the customer.
3. Create flow: Make the process flow as smoothly as possible by eliminating bottlenecks and non-value-adding activities.
4. Establish pull: Don't produce anything unless the customer actually needs it.
5. Seek perfection: Continuously strive for improvement by regularly identifying and eliminating waste.

• 5S: A workplace organization method that involves sorting, setting in order, shining, standardizing, and sustaining.
• Kanban: A system for managing the flow of work through a process.
• Kaizen: A Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement.
• Poka-yoke: A system for preventing mistakes.

• Reduce costs: By eliminating waste and improving efficiency.
• Improve quality: By identifying and preventing defects.
• Increase customer satisfaction: By delivering products and services that meet or exceed customer expectations.
• Shorten lead times: By making processes more efficient.
• Increase employee engagement: By involving employess to improve their work environment.

Wheeler Mectrade now provides expedited in-house shaft turning services for purchases of Kawada Linear Shafts

Why choose us?

• Stock Shafts ready stock (SUJ2, SUS440C)
• Short lead time for standard turning services (End-tap)

Services:
Facing
Chamfering
End-Drill
End-Tap
 

Special Offer! Discounted LMH25LUU

Limited run clearance of LMH25LUU-42W @ S$30/pc (exGST)

All stock must go, enquire directly for further volume discounts!

Phone: 65638501
Email: wheelermectrade@singnet.com.sg

Offer valid while stocks last

Free-standing Portable Partition

Lightweight and easy to reposition