Toothed belt and lead screw axes with integrated metal cover for maximum reliability

drylin ZLX and SLX Protect from igus protect linear technology from coarse dirt and small parts, reducing the risk of injury

In production and automated systems, linear axes are exposed to various mechanical loads. Apart from coarse dirt, the small parts falling into the system pose a particular risk, for example during assembly or maintenance work. igus has developed the drylin linear axes ZLX-806016-PT and SLX-806016-PT, which prevent foreign objects from entering the axis and at the same time protect users against injuries. Thanks to a fully integrated metal cover, they are a completely closed and robust system, which is easy to assemble and reliably protects the guide, bearing and drive. They are suitable for workspaces, machine panelling or automation solutions, but also for applications in public areas where accessibility and trouble-free continuous operation are required.

In many applications, coarse dirt and lost small parts such as screws, tablets or tools lead to increased risk, unplanned downtime and increased maintenance costs. If such parts can no longer be found, the machine often cannot be put back into operation. To solve precisely this problem, igus has developed the new drylin linear axes ZLX and SLX Protect. They reliably prevent contamination of the technology. "The integrated metal protective strip completely covers the guide and protects the bearing and drive from external influences such as falling small parts or dirt. This type of cover is particularly useful in the vicinity of metal work such as welding, cutting or flexing," 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 to employees as it also prevents them from touching the system. With the metal cover, the company is addressing the needs of its customers in automation technology, mechanical engineering as well as conveyor and packaging technology.

 

Maximum design freedom thanks to drylin W high profile

The linear axes are based on a drylin W high profile made of clear anodised aluminium, which results in a robust and completely enclosed linear unit. The linear axes are designed to reduce assembly time. They can be mounted on aluminium structural profiles with standard brackets from commercially available suppliers. "The high profile offers maximum design freedom thanks to its groove geometry. It is unsupported, compatible with standard modular profile systems and ideal for integrating additional components," emphasises Hornung. As part of the modular system, igus provides additional accessories such as hand wheels, position indicators, manual clamps, motor, control

 

 

system and pre-assembled carriages in three lengths. The service life of the axis can be calculated before purchase using the drylin online tools.

Lubrication-free, quiet and dirt-resistant

In 2024, igus launched drylin ZLX, a high-performance series of toothed belt axes that are used in automated production lines, pick & place systems and 3D printers, among others. drylin ZLX offers a maximum load capacity of 150N and speeds of up to 3m/s. The drylin SLX followed in 2025 as a lead screw drive variant. It is designed for radial loads of up to 500kg, can lift loads of up to 100kg and is suitable for a wide range of applications, including in logistics, robotics and production cells in packaging technology. Inside the ZLX and SLX axes, a linear guide system from the drylin W series is used; the carriage moves via liners or lead screw nuts made from the high-performance plastic iglidur J200. Solid lubricants in the material ensure low-friction dry operation. This results in particularly quiet, dirt-resistant and maintenance-free operation over the entire service life. Therefore, the axes are also suitable for public applications with continuous operation: from scanning systems at an airport's customs control to self-service terminals in restaurants or supermarkets.

Complete solution from a single source

The drylin linear axes support design engineers in increasing the reliability of their application and reducing maintenance costs. Thanks to their design, the axes blend seamlessly into classic mechanical-engineering profiles and thus contribute to a clean appearance. Says Hornung: "Upon request, we can also supply the linear axes ready for installation with motors and control systems - including stepper, EC/BLDC and DC motors. Alternatively, it is also possible to connect motors from other manufacturers."