Rollon Compact Rail

Rollon Compact Rail is a self-aligning linear roller guide system designed for machine structures where mounting deviations between parallel rails may occur. The system consists of cold-drawn steel C-profile rails with induction-hardened and ground raceways. Linear motion is provided by carriages equipped with bearing-mounted rollers.

In machines with two parallel guide rails, alignment deviations can give rise to unwanted forces. For this reason, Compact Rail offers various rail and carriage configurations capable of compensating for mounting inaccuracies. This makes the system an attractive choice for machine frames where precise machining of all mounting surfaces is difficult or costly.

Compact Rail and Compact Rail Plus

Within this product family, Rollon offers two versions. The standard Compact Rail combines a compact design with self-aligning properties. A variety of rail profiles and carriages makes it possible to tailor the guidance system to specific mounting conditions and load-bearing requirements.

Compact Rail Plus has been developed for applications involving higher loads. This version incorporates features such as double-row bearing rollers and a modified rail geometry. As a result, Compact Rail Plus offers a higher load capacity than the standard version, while maintaining similar dimensions.

Both versions feature induction-hardened and ground raceways. In addition, the preload of the carriages is adjustable. The correct setting depends on the load, the required rigidity, and the motion characteristics of the machine.

What should you look for when selecting Compact Rail?

When selecting a Rollon Compact Rail system, the load, stroke length, and mounting structure serve as the starting point. The position of the center of gravity is also important; an off-center load creates moments on the carriages, so be sure to account for these during the dimensioning process.

In addition, the chosen rail combination and the spacing between the rails determine how the system accommodates forces and moments. While the self-aligning properties can compensate for mounting inaccuracies, they do not replace the need to evaluate the support and rigidity of the overall structure.

Speed, acceleration, and cycle time also warrant attention. Frequent changes in direction generate dynamic forces that place additional load on the carriages. The motion profile therefore plays a significant role in the selection of the specific version and frame size.

In applications involving dust or other forms of contamination, the protection of raceways, lubrication, and accessibility for maintenance are also important considerations. The necessary measures depend on the operating conditions and the chosen configuration.

Selecting a suitable Compact Rail configuration therefore requires an assessment of load capacity, moments, rigidity, dynamics, and mounting. Furthermore, a sufficient theoretical service life does not automatically mean that the linear guide meets all functional requirements.

Are you unsure whether Rollon Compact Rail or Compact Rail Plus is suitable for your application? Our engineers can assist with selection and technical calculations. Take a look at our Engineer Support.

Also check out the official product information for Rollon Compact Rail for available versions and technical documentation.