Cuts costs and boosts control
July 1st 2006

High performance ballscrew and linear motion products developed and made by THK are suited to playing an important role in manufacturing cells used by automotive producers for the manufacture of a range of drive shafts used in front wheel drive cars, vans and trucks. The THK ballscrews and linear guides are suitable for use where, traditionally, hydraulic components were installed, and are providing both cost savings and a higher degree of of machine control.

The drive shaft manufacturing cell can be based around a series of four purpose built machines, each of which carries out a specific part of the assembly operation. Throughout it is critical that the splinted joints and shaft are located precisely to ensure consistent log term operation, with minimal wear and guaranteed vehicle safety. The new manufacturing cell replaces a largely manual operation by developing production systems that allow automation of an essentially complex process, at realistic cost and with a high degree of positional accuracy and repeatability.

Machine costs are minimised as the THK products are less expensive than comparable hydraulic parts.

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