Repair, refurbishment and replacement of ball screws
We co-operate with competent specialist companies who are able to recondition worn ball screw spindles or, if this is no longer possible, carry out emergency repairs that at least allow limited production until a new spindle arrives.
We also have a well-stocked warehouse of new and repaired ball screws, primarily for MAZAK lathes and machining centres. We can also manufacture new ball screws according to samples or drawings at short notice!
The ball screw is a central element in many machines and systems. It ensures the precise movement and positioning of components and workpieces. But what should you do if the ball screw no longer functions smoothly? In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything you need to know about repairing, reconditioning and replacing ball screw spindles.
Why repair or refurbish ball screws?
Ball screws are an indispensable component in many machines. They ensure smooth and precise movement and are therefore crucial for the quality and efficiency of production. Over time, however, various problems can occur that make repair or reconditioning necessary:
- Wear: Constant use causes the ball screws to wear out.
ball screws wear out. This can lead to play, inaccuracies and ultimately
ultimately lead to machine failure. - Corrosion: Moisture and aggressive environments can attack the surface of the ball screw and cause corrosion.
- Dirt and impurities: Particles and dust can penetrate the spindle and impair mobility.
- Mechanical damage: Accidents or overloading can cause mechanical damage that requires repair.


The repair process of a ball screw
Repairing a ball screw requires expertise and precision. Here are the typical steps in the repair process:
1. Disassembly and cleaning
Dhe first step is to dismantle the ball screw. This requires special tools and experience in order to avoid damaging the components. After disassembly, all parts must be thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt and deposits.
2. Inspection and evaluation
After cleaning, a detailed inspection of the ball screw is carried out. All parts are checked for wear, corrosion and mechanical damage. Using measuring instruments, you check the accuracy of the spindle to determine whether it is still within the tolerances.
3. Replacement of components
Worn or damaged parts must be replaced. This often includes the balls, nuts and other components. It is important that only high-quality spare parts are used to ensure the service life and performance of the ball screw.
4. Remeasurement and adjustment
Once the components have been replaced, the ball screw is re-measured and adjusted. This requires precision tools and experience to ensure that the spindle functions optimally again. The adjustment involves setting the clearance and preload of the balls.
5. Final inspection and assembly
Before the ball screw can be reinstalled, a final check is carried out. This involves testing the ball screw under real conditions to ensure that it works perfectly again. The spindle is then reinstalled in the machine.
Reconditioning of a ball screw
In addition to repair, reconditioning the ball screw can also be useful. This involves thoroughly overhauling all parts of the spindle to restore its original performance. This includes cleaning, polishing and, if necessary, coating the surfaces as well as replacing wear parts.
Advantages of reconditioning
- Cost savings: Reconditioning is often cheaper than buying a new ball screw.
- Environmental protection: By reusing components, resources are conserved and waste is reduced.
- Extended service life: A thoroughly reconditioned ball screw can often work reliably again for many years.
Replacement of ball screws
In some cases, repair or reconditioning is no longer practical or economical. The only option then is to replace the ball screw. Here, too, there are some important aspects to consider:
Selecting the right ball screw
When replacing the ball screw, it is important to ensure that the new ball screw exactly fulfils the requirements of the machine. The following factors play a role here:
- Dimensions: The length, diameter and lead dimension must fit exactly.
- Load capacity: The new ball screw must be able to carry the required load.
- Accuracy: The precision of the ball screw is crucial for the quality of the work.
Installation and adjustment
- The installation of a new ball screw also requires expertise and precision. To achieve optimum results, the spindle must be precisely adjusted after installation. This includes setting the clearance and preload of the balls as well as checking the smooth running and accuracy.
Test and acceptance
The new ball screw can now be tested under real conditions. This involves checking whether it fulfils the required specifications and works perfectly. Only after a successful test is the machine put back into operation.
Conclusion
The ball screw is a central component in many machines and systems. Repairing, refurbishing or replacing them requires expertise and precision. Regular maintenance and care can extend the service life of the ball screw. However, if a repair or replacement is necessary, it should be carried out by a specialist in order to achieve optimum results and get the machine up and running again quickly.