Ball Screw Lubrication and Handling Tips

Prior to receiving your new or repaired ball screw

The nut was lubricated with Mobil Vactra Oil No. 4
- Go to Exxon Mobil’s MSDS document locator
The entire unit was coated in a light spindle oil to prevent rust
It was placed in a rust-inhibiting plastic bag

Be sure to store your ball screw in a completely vertical position or horizontally on v-blocks to prevent bending
Rotate the nut on the screw periodically to prevent the balls from developing flat spots
Store in a temperature stable environment free of vibration
If stored for longer than 6 months before installation, clean ball screw with light lubricant to remove any gummy residue

Lack of lubrication will reduce the life and performance
The best lubrication is light oil applied directly into the ball nut at various locations along the length of the screw
We recommend light spindle oil or light way lube
The screw should always have a thin film of oil present; the screw should never be dry to the touch
We recommend lubricating with oil instead of grease, as grease retains contaminants and can lead to premature wear
If lubricating ball screw with grease it is recommended that a way cover or bellow is installed to protect from debris
Also, if lubricating with grease, it is not recommended to fill the ball nut cavity. It should not exceed more than 65% full, as this can exert pressure on the wipers and ball returns.
Lubrication intervals are dependent on application and environment; recommendations can be made, but should be monitored after installation of the ball screw assembly
Spray lubricants and paraffin-based coolants are not recommended as they can increase build-up, increase the possibility of rust, and retain contaminants.