Ball Screw Life Calculator

To calculate the Ball Screw Life (BSL), use the formula: BSL = $10^6 / (60 \cdot N) \cdot (C / (P \cdot f))^3$
Here, $C$ is the dynamic load capacity, $P$ is the applied load, $N$ is the screw speed in RPM, and $f$ is the load factor. This formula provides the expected number of revolutions a ball screw can perform before wear affects its operation.

The Ball Screw Life Calculator is an essential tool for engineers and designers working with precision mechanical systems. It helps estimate the lifespan of a ball screw under specific operating conditions.

By determining the expected revolutions, you can predict maintenance schedules, optimize performance, and prevent unexpected downtimes in applications like CNC machines, robotics, and automotive systems. This calculator simplifies complex calculations, enabling quick and accurate results.

Formula

BSL = $10^6 / (60 \cdot N) \cdot (C / (P \cdot f))^3$

Variable	Description	Unit
$BSL$	Ball Screw Life	Revolutions
$C$	Dynamic Load Capacity	Newtons (N)
$P$	Applied Load	Newtons (N)
$N$	Screw Speed	RPM
$f$	Load Factor	Dimensionless

Solved Calculations

Example 1: Calculate the lifespan of a ball screw with:

Dynamic Load Capacity ( $C$ ): 20,000 N
Applied Load ( $P$ ): 5,000 N
Screw Speed ( $N$ ): 500 RPM
Load Factor ( $f$ ): 1.5

Step	Calculation	Result
Determine load ratio	$C / (P \cdot f) = 20,000 / (5,000 \cdot 1.5)$	$2.67$
Calculate lifespan factor	$(C / (P \cdot f))^3 = 2.67^3$	$19.05$
Calculate revolutions	$BSL = 10^6 / (60 \cdot 500) \cdot 19.05$	$635,000$

Example 2: Find the life of a ball screw with:

$C = 25,000 N$ , $P = 6,000 N$ , $N = 600 RPM$ , $f = 1.2$

Step	Calculation	Result
Determine load ratio	$C / (P \cdot f) = 25,000 / (6,000 \cdot 1.2)$	$3.47$
Calculate lifespan factor	$(C / (P \cdot f))^3 = 3.47^3$	$41.76$
Calculate revolutions	$BSL = 10^6 / (60 \cdot 600) \cdot 41.76$	$1,161,111$

What is Ball Screw Life Calculator?

The Ball Screw Life Calculator is a specialized tool designed to estimate the lifespan of a ball screw based on operating conditions.

It is essential for engineers and manufacturers in industries where ball screws are crucial components, such as robotics, machinery, and automotive applications.

This calculator uses parameters like load, speed, and duty cycle to compute the expected service life. By inputting variables such as dynamic load capacity and operational cycles, users can determine whether a ball screw meets the requirements of their application.

The tool is available in various formats, including Excel sheets, metric calculators, and mobile apps, offering flexibility for different professional needs.

Furthermore, the calculator incorporates the ball screw life formula, which considers factors like load distribution and lubrication to provide accurate results. This helps in planning maintenance schedules and minimizing unexpected failures.

Final Words:

In summary, the Ball Screw Life Calculator is a vital resource for estimating the durability and efficiency of ball screws. It enhances maintenance planning, ensuring prolonged performance and reliability in diverse industrial applications.

Contents

1 Ball Screw Life Calculator