Acme Screws

Acme Screws

ACME screws are a type of lead screws that create sliding friction between the ball and the nut. The most widely used power screw, Acme screws are low cost but offer a lower efficiency than ball screws (typically about 30% less). Acme screws are self-locking, meaning that their disallowance of thrust-to-torque conversion prevents back drive. Low lead angles offer a high mechanical advantage for acme screws, as they require less input torque for a given load than other types of power screws. Acme screws are often utilized in applications requiring high levels of accuracy at low speeds.

Acme screws are available in a selection of nut materials, lubrication types, lead and thread forms, speed, length, and strength. For example, the type of load an acme screw uses could be static, dynamic, PV, tension, thrust, overturning, side, or compression load. The specifications chosen for a particular acme screw depend on the requirements of the application.

Acme screws are useful in applications including load carrying, linear actuating, quick threading, valve stems, clamps, table lifts, jacks, screw press drives, machinery slide drives, and various machinery. Due to variable effects of friction, lubrication and cleanliness, a specific life of acme screws cannot be determined pre-purchase, but proper lubrication, consistent maintenance, and operation within specified limits all aid in maximizing performance of acme screws.