In manufacturing as well as in automated systems, linear axes are exposed to various mechanical stresses. In addition to coarse dirt, the unintentional dropping of small parts poses a significant risk, especially during assembly or maintenance work. To prevent foreign objects from entering the axis while providing a protective barrier, igus has developed the drylin linear axes ZLX-806016-PT and SLX-806016-PT. Thanks to a fully integrated metal cover, they become a completely closed, robust, and assembly-friendly system that reliably protects guidance, storage, and drive. They are suitable for workspaces, machine enclosures, or automation solutions, as well as for applications in publicly accessible areas where accessibility and uninterrupted continuous operation are required.
Coarse dirt and lost small parts such as screws, tablets, or tools lead to an increased risk of unplanned downtimes and rising maintenance efforts in many applications. If such parts can no longer be found, the machine often cannot be restarted. To solve this exact problem, igus has developed the new drylin ZLX and SLX-Protect linear axes. They reliably keep contaminants away from the technology. 'The integrated metal protective band completely covers the guidance and protects the storage and drive from external influences such as falling small parts or dirt. This type of cover proves particularly effective when used near metalworking operations such as welding, cutting, or grinding,' explains Michael Hornung, product manager for drylin linear and drive technology at igus. At the same time, the cover significantly reduces the risk of injury for personnel as it also provides a protective barrier. With the metal cover, the company addresses the needs of its customers from automation technology, mechanical engineering, conveyor technology, and packaging technology.
Maximum design freedom thanks to drylin W high profile
The linear axes rely on a drylin W high profile made of clear-anodized aluminum, resulting in a robust and completely closed linear unit. The linear axes are designed to save users assembly time. They can be mounted directly using standard angles from common suppliers on aluminum construction profiles. 'The high profile offers maximum design freedom due to its groove geometry. It can be cantilever-mounted, is compatible with standard profile construction kits, and is optimally suited for integrating additional components,' emphasizes Michael Hornung. In the modular system, igus provides additional accessories such as handwheels, position indicators, clamping levers, motors, and controls, as well as pre-assembled carriage variants in three lengths. The lifespan of the axis can already be calculated before purchase using the drylin online tools.
Lubrication-free, low-noise, and dirt-resistant
With drylin ZLX, igus launched a high-performance series of timing belt axes in 2024, which are used in automated production lines, pick-and-place systems, and 3D printers, among others. drylin ZLX offers a maximum load capacity of 150 N and speeds of up to 3 m/s. The drylin SLX followed in 2025 as a spindle drive variant. It is designed for radial loads of up to 500 kg, can lift loads of up to 100 kg, and is versatile – including applications in logistics, robotics, or manufacturing cells in packaging technology.
Inside the ZLX and SLX axes, a linear glide guide from the drylin W series operates, with the carriage moving over linear glide films or nuts made from the high-performance plastic iglidur J200. Solid lubricants in the material ensure low-friction dry running. This results in particularly low noise operation, dirt resistance, and maintenance-free performance throughout the entire lifespan. Thus, the axes are also suitable for public applications with continuous operation: from scanning systems at customs control at airports to self-service terminals in restaurants or supermarkets.
Complete solution from a single source
The drylin linear axes support designers in increasing the reliability of their applications and reducing maintenance costs. Due to the design, the axes also visually blend seamlessly into classic mechanical engineering profiles, providing a uniform appearance. Michael Hornung: 'On request, we also deliver the linear axes ready for installation with motors and controls – including stepper, EC/BLDC, and DC motors. Alternatively, motors from other manufacturers can also be connected.'
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