Bearing Tech — screw supports

Can I Use a Ball Bearing to Support my Ball Screw? You can, but let’s make sure the correct ball bearing is specified and sourced.  Ball screw ends are either fixed, supported, or free.

1. Fixed: axially located, designed to handle axial loads in both directions
2. Supported: axially non-located, design to support radial loads and radial stiffness
3. Free: non-located, unsupported, cantilevered screw - generally not recommended. Drastic reduction in stability, strength, and stiffness.