World’s first bioplastic retaining piece for ball screws
Technews Industry Guide: Sustainable Manufacturing 2023
Motion Control & Drives
NSK S1 is the first bioplastic retention piece for ball screws to appear on the global market. Made from 100% renewable biological resources (mainly plants), the use of bioplastic for the new retaining piece reduces carbon footprint by 90% over its lifecycle, in comparison with using conventional materials. The development therefore represents an environmentally sustainable choice for any European manufacturer looking to reduce CO2 emissions and meet increasingly stringent regulations.
To emphasise the growing need for sustainable solutions, the European Commission released its Net Zero Industry Act in March 2023. A key part of the European Green Deal Industrial Plan, the Act proposes a framework of regulatory measures for strengthening Europe’s net-zero product manufacturing ecosystem. Many countries are now looking to up their game on carbon-neutral initiatives, meaning that low-carbon and environmental measures are increasingly required in a wide variety of industrial machinery.
NSK is committed to realising a carbon-neutral society. As part of this ethos, the company is increasing its use of bioplastics, which are more effective in reducing carbon emissions than conventional fossil fuel-based plastics. Ball screws are a key focus area due to their popularity in all kinds of industrial machines and systems.
Ball screws are highly efficient at transmitting force and converting motion (from rotational to linear), delivering significant energy savings. In recent years, injection moulding machines and servo presses are among many machine types switching from hydraulic to electric drive systems using servomotors and ball screws as a means of reducing power consumption. Considering such industry trends, the demand for ball screws is set for ongoing growth, particularly if sustainable solutions are available.
NSK’s development of its S1 bioplastic retaining piece for ball screws (50 to 200 mm diameter) makes a further contribution to achieving carbon neutrality. Drawing on its expertise in materials technology, NSK selected and validated DSM’s EcoPaXX bioplastic (a plant-derived high-performance polyamide) as the retention piece material.
To optimise and expedite the development process, NSK deployed its digital twin technology. This advanced process enabled the creation of a bioplastic retaining piece with the same performance as a conventional product in a short period of time through the simulation of key parameters such as dimensions, shape, deformation and strength. In short, customers can now leverage the benefit of far lower CO2 emissions while enjoying the same excellent performance levels associated with NSK ball screws.
Further reading:
Driving heavy equipment industry
Motion Control & Drives
Cimolai Technology, a leader in the design, production and installation of lifting and handling equipment, has adopted the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software. This move aims to deliver innovative, reliable and custom-made solutions to meet the most demanding technical specifications across sectors such as shipyards, infrastructure and heavy industry.
Read more...
Actuators for automated fully
Motion Control & Drives
Rotork supplies actuators for an automated next generation fully electrified offshore gas platform
Read more...
AG Lubricants partners with
Motion Control & Drives
AG Lubricants has partnered with a major player in the South African steel industry to supply high-performance Mobil lubricants, Quaker Houghton industrial fluids and value-added technical services.
Read more...
Smart features increase crane safety
Motion Control & Drives
The newly launched Konecranes S series hoist offers a large bouquet of smart features which not only increase lifting device safety but also deliver a higher level of operator protection.
Read more...
Compact, powerful hexapod for high-precision applications
Motion Control & Drives
With the HEX150-125HL, Aerotech is launching the latest generation of its hexapod technology. The compact six-axis positioner combines precise movements with high load capacity and simple integration.
Read more...
Hexagon Electrical services electric motor sector
Motion Control & Drives
Hexagon Electrical has expanded its manufacturing and service capabilities to meet the growing demand for customised, high-performance specialised electric motors in heavy engineering, and hazardous industrial and mining applications.
Read more...
NORD modular drives for frequently changing motor speeds
Bearing Man Group t/a BMG
Motion Control & Drives
BMG has made a substantial investment over the years to ensure assembly, stockholdings and technical support for the Nord range are in line with stringent international quality, safety and environmental standards.
Read more...
Cutting-edge robotics and smart manufacturing solutions
Yaskawa Southern Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Yaskawa Southern Africa made a compelling impact at this year’s Africa Automation and Technology Fair
Read more...
Medium voltage drive for enhanced energy efficiency and process optimisation
Schneider Electric South Africa
Motion Control & Drives
Schneider Electric South Africa has unveiled its cutting-edge Altivar Process ATV6100 medium voltage (MV) drive range, designed to enhance energy efficiency and operational reliability across various industries.
Read more...
Powerful high-precision hexapod
Motion Control & Drives
With the HEX150-125HL, Aerotech is launching the latest generation of its hexapod technology. The compact six-axis positioner combines precise movements with high load capacity and simple integration.
Read more...
printer friendly version