Bosch Rexroth ball transfer units – a small element with a big role in moving loads

Ball transfer units are used on worktables, assembly lines, feed systems, turning stations, packaging lines and other structures where a load must be moved with low resistance and without a complex drive system.

What is a ball transfer unit?

A ball transfer unit is a mechanical element with a main load-bearing ball housed in a casing and supported by smaller balls. This design allows the load to move in any direction – forward, backward, sideways, diagonally or by rotating on the spot.

Thanks to its compact design, it can be installed directly into work surfaces, roller tables, transfer modules or special fixtures for material handling. When selected correctly, it reduces friction, makes load positioning easier and reduces operator effort when manually moving heavier parts.

4 key points when selecting a ball transfer unit

1. Friction and travel speed

The first step in selection is to define the load weight, required movement speed and handling method. Heavy plates, tools or containers require different dimensioning than smaller parts moved manually by an operator.

A lower coefficient of friction means easier movement and less pushing force. Bosch Rexroth ball transfer units are supported by friction diagrams that make it easier to select the right version according to load and speed.

2. Installation position and mounting method

The most common installation position is with the load-bearing ball facing upward, but inclined, side-mounted and inverted installations are also used in practice. Bosch Rexroth ball transfer units are designed for these positions as well, so they can be used in a wide range of structural solutions.

The mounting method depends on the design of the table or support structure. Units can be pressed into bores, bonded or secured with a tolerance ring. Versions with spring-loaded locking elements further simplify installation and removal during maintenance.

3. Operating conditions

Ball transfer units are often used in environments where dust, emulsions, oils, moisture or fine particles from the production process are present. Selection should therefore consider not only the weight of the load, but also the operating environment.

Many Bosch Rexroth versions have oiled felt seals that reduce the ingress of contaminants into the assembly. In applications with larger temperature fluctuations, the operating temperature range should also be checked and a version selected that matches the actual working conditions.

4. Load capacity and planned service life

Correct selection does not depend only on the maximum permissible load. The number of installed ball transfer units, their arrangement under the load, the shape of the underside surface and the way the load is applied are also important.

With an even underside surface, the load is more easily distributed across several support points. For uneven parts or point loads, the selection should be checked in more detail. Bosch Rexroth provides data for calculating service life for individual types and sizes, which helps with maintenance and replacement planning.

Where are ball transfer units most commonly used?

 

Ball transfer units are used wherever a load needs to move across a flat surface with low resistance and the option to change direction. The most common applications are:

• Work and assembly tables for sheet metal, profiles, tools and workpieces.
• Infeed and outfeed tables on saws, presses, cutting machines and machining centres.
• Transport of plates, bins, containers and larger parts in logistics.
• Positioning of heavier parts before machining, assembly or inspection.
• Turning and handling stations in production lines.
• Auxiliary structures for manual material handling.

 

Why choose Bosch Rexroth ball transfer units?

Bosch Rexroth is a recognised manufacturer of components for linear motion technology, automation and industrial systems. With ball transfer units, the advantage lies in clearly defined technical data, different installation options and a wide range of versions for different loads.
All of this helps designers, maintenance teams and machine builders select the right component for a specific application. A correctly selected ball transfer unit reduces movement resistance, simplifies load handling and contributes to an organised material flow in production.

Bosch Rexroth at M&M Intercom

At M&M Intercom, we supply Bosch Rexroth components for industrial use, including solutions from the fields of linear motion technology and material transport. We support selection according to load weight, the underside surface of the workpiece, installation method, travel speed and working conditions.

 

SALES PROGRAM BOSCH REXROTH

 

Related content

• Bosch Rexroth linear technology – advanced solutions for industry
• Linear technology – online shop
• Bosch Rexroth – brand page
• Bosch Rexroth ball transfer units
• NEW – Bosch Rexroth linear technology: advanced solutions for industry
• Profile rail guides or round guides – which should you choose for your application?

 

Source: https://www.boschrexroth.com/en/de/blog