What Is Gland Packing?
Gland packing is a finite-stroke type linear guideway consisting of precision rollers that are alternately aligned orthogonally to each other. It is suitable for linear guides with high accuracy and rigidity requirements, because it provides highly rigid and light linear motion. A ball guide is a similar component.
It plays the same role as the gland packing, only the roller part is replaced by a ball (rigid ball). Gland packing is more expensive and lasts longer. In addition, gland packing is more compact in the thickness direction.
Uses of Gland Packing
Gland packing is used for parallel movement of parts called raceways. They are often used when agile movement is required over a fixed section.
For example, they are used in precision equipment such as “OA equipment and peripherals,” “various measuring instruments,” and “printed circuit board hole drilling machines,” as well as in slide sections of “optical measuring instruments,” “optical stages,” “handling mechanisms,” and “X-ray equipment.” They are also used for “moving and sorting products in factories” and “support devices for movable shafts.”
Principle of Gland Packing
Gland packing is a roller cage consisting of alternating orthogonal precision rollers assembled together on a 90° V-groove rolling surface provided on a special rail. The pre-loading of the rollers will result in extremely small gaps and high rigidity. Rigidity is a measure of robustness against vibration and impact. This results in a slide mechanism that is even lighter in motion. The cage, which incorporates alternating orthogonal precision rollers, moves in a V-groove on the rail for only one-half of the stroke, resulting in a very compact and rigid linear motion system.
If you need a durable gland packing, choose a model with high rigidity. In particular, models with a shorter pitch between rollers and a larger number of rollers have been found to be more rigid. In addition, a built-in rack and pinion mechanism virtually eliminates guide misalignment.