igus has introduced a ready-to-install drylin SLX-8060 linear axis with a dryspin lead screw drive. The solution addresses applications requiring adjustment and positioning, including automated workpiece handling, palletizing systems in logistics, and the adjustment of assembly fixtures. The aim is to shorten the time for drive and control design and integration, which is often a bottleneck when building workstations and production cells in the packaging industry. Depending on configuration, the axis handles loads up to 600 kg and can operate standalone or in gantry systems. The manufacturer highlights mechanical and mounting compatibility with common aluminum profiles used in machine frames, and the option for manual or electric operation. The module is based on an anodized aluminum profile with an integrated drylin W linear guide in size 16, driven by a lead screw in the dryspin system.
Design and integration
The axis is built on a corrosion-resistant, anodized aluminum profile integrated with a drylin W guide in size 16. The drive is based on dryspin lead screw technology, which can be actuated manually or electrically. "In 2024 we introduced a new generation of ZLX belt-driven linear axes, which was very well received by design engineers worldwide. They confirmed that the ready-to-install solution significantly shortens design time. Therefore we have expanded the portfolio with a screw-driven variant that provides even greater application flexibility" says Radosław Sobociński, product manager for drylin linear and drive technology at igus.
drylin SLX axes are designed to minimize assembly time. Installation is possible without drilling, directly on the aluminum profiles used in machine construction. The new axis geometry facilitates integration into standard structural profiles, and wide slots enable quick mounting of accessories such as sensor brackets or covers. "On request we supply linear axes as complete solutions with motors and controllers, with a choice of stepper, EC/BLDC, or DC motors. Drives from other manufacturers can also be integrated. For manual operation, various operating elements are available, from right-angle gearboxes to handwheels" says Sobociński.
Dry-running operation, testing, and parameters
A key feature of drylin SLX is dry-running operation without oil or grease. The carriage and screw run with a nut and sliding elements made of high-performance polymers that contain solid lubricants. As a result, the system operates with low friction, is quiet, and is resistant to contamination. "This not only eliminates costly service downtime associated with lubrication. The design is also less prone to failures caused by paste formation from grease, dust, and dirt" adds Sobociński. "In addition, the profile itself is completely closed on three sides, which further improves protection against contamination. The sliding principle instead of rolling allows the use of aluminum and polymers, reducing system weight while maintaining high performance."
The SLX series underwent long-term endurance testing in the 4,000 m² igus laboratory. The tests confirmed reliable operation over 113,232 double cycles in 23,590 hours. The special geometry of the dryspin lead screw extends drive service life by around 30 percent and increases efficiency through material pairing. The integrated 16 mm guide profile enables the drylin SLX axis to carry static axial loads up to 1,250 N and radial loads up to 5,000 N. Strokes up to 1,000 mm are available.
