NB has been a leader in linear bearing design for more than 50 years. Our products serve a wide range of market verticals, including consumer electronics, semiconductors and computing equipment, transportation components, manufacturing equipment and more. To provide purpose-built linear motion systems that deliver exceptional value for every customer, we offer one of the most comprehensive selections of products on the market today.

Our high quality linear motion systems include single-axis linear actuators and crossed roller slides, ball splines, linear bushings, linear guides and more. To support our core product line, we can customize many components with accessories and optional features such as sensors, mounting options, and different materials and surface coatings.

We can meet the specific demands of your project, including:

  • High rigidity and load capacities, with smooth linear and rotational motions Exceptional stability and accuracy, with precision-engineered components designed for longer travel life
  •  Lightweight designs and smaller footprints for compact equipment
  •  Harsh environment corrosion resistance or clean room/vacuum chamber use

Getting Started

In order to select the optimal NB product for your system, it is necessary to check and calculate various conditions. Before beginning, you may wish to familiarize yourself with our linear motion systems design capabilities, whether by browsing our website or downloading product literature such as our CAD datasheets or linear actuator design guides. (For details, please refer to the list of PDF catalogs on the Downloads page.)

Go to Download Catalog

Go to Download CAD

Need more information or want to discuss the unique needs of your project with one of our engineering experts? Call or email the NB office before placing your order.

Alternately, if you’re ready to start, you can select the optimal NB product according to the following procedures:

1. Check the application conditions

Identify machine type to be used, application conditions, environmental conditions, and desired accuracy.

2. Determine system type

Please determine the system type depending on the operating conditions.
Go to Products Information

3. Pre-select the size and number of linear systems

Pre-select the size and number based on balance of machinery and other equipment as well as past experience.

4. Calculate applied load

Calculate applied load on each system. Calculate average variable load.

Refer to Engineering Information [ Method for Determining Applied Load ]

5. Determine static load

Determine basic static load rating and allowable static moment by applying static safety factor.

* When neither a point to be checked nor a calculation result fulfills conditions in this stage, it is necessary to return to [2:Decide system type] and to do selection again.

Refer to Engineering Information [Allowable Load]

6. Compute rated life

Checking Hardness Coefficient, Temperature Coefficient, Contact Coefficient and Applied Load Coefficient, please compute the rated life in cosideration of the applied load (No.4) and the basic dynamic load rating (Pre-selection).

* When conditions are not fulfilled as compared with [1:Determine the application conditions], it is necessary to return to [2:Decide system type] or [3:Pre-select the size and number of linear systems] and to do selection again.

Refer to Engineering Information [Life]

7. Determine preload and accuracy

Determine preload and accuracy based on the operating conditions. (refer to each product description for preload and accuracy)

* When neither a point to be checked nor a calculation result fulfills conditions in this stage, it is necessary to return to [2:Decide system type] or [3:Pre-select the size and number of linear systems] and to do selection again.

Refer to Engineering Information [Rigidity and Pre-Load]

8. Select Lubrication and dust prevention method

Select lubrication and dust prevention method. (seals, bellows, covers)

Refer to Engineering Information [Operating Environment]

9. Confirm the space needed in the equipment

Confirm space and installation dimensions in consideration of the machine size and ease of maintenance.

* When neither a point to be checked nor a calculation result fulfills conditions in this stage, it is necessary to return to [2:Decide system type] or [3:Pre-select the size and number of linear systems] and to do selection again.

Selection completed.
If you have any questions, please contact NB.