The track itself consists of a pair of linear rods, with the torch mounts sliding along on linear bearings. A lead screw sits between the two linear rods, and is powered by an old cordless drill ...

Let’s take a look into three different case studies from Rollon Corp. on how to design with linear motion bearings and how they can help improve a factory floor.

Plastic versus ball bearings. Standard ball bearings have point-to-point contact with their supporting rails; in contrast, plastic linear bearings have a much greater surface contact with their rails.