M2.

3 Power screws

M2.3.1 Introduction

The principle uses of threads are fastening, adjusting & transmitting power. In this section we
consider power screws. A power screw is used to convert a rotary motion into a linear motion for
power transmission. Power screws should be designed for smooth and noiseless transmission of
power with an ability to carry heavy loads with high efficiency. Power screws are capable of
producing uniform motion.

Power Screws are used for the following reasons.

• Can obtain high mechanical advantage in order to move large loads with a minimum
effort; e.g, screw jack.
• To generate large forces; e.g; tensile test machine, compactor press.
• To obtain precise axial movements; e.g., machine tools.

Depending on the purpose of the application the screw could be either stationary or moving. For
example in a screw clamp the screw moves to perform the task. On the other hand in the case of
jack screws, lead screws of a lathe, screws for vices, presses, etc. the screw remains stationary.
Square, Acme and buttress are some of the type of threads that are used in power screws.

Screw Jack C Clamp

 A tensile test rig with power screws

Advantages of power screws

• They have a compact design

• These have a large load carrying capability
• These are simple to design and easy to manufacture
• Have a large mechanical advantage
• Produce precise and accurate linear motion
• Maintenance is simple
• Self-locking feature

M2.3.2 Types of thread

Square Thread

Square is a square flat top thread. These are capable of transferring large loads. They are difficult
to manufacture and are expensive.
Acme Thread

This is the most common form of thread used in power screws. This is a trapezoidal thread type
that has sloped sides. This thread is commonly used when a rapid movement is required. They
are cheap and easy to manufacture. The disadvantages of this thread include its low efficiency
and difficulty in predicting service life.

Buttress Thread

The Buttress thread is a combination of both square and acme thread. Sometimes this is used for
power screws but they can transmit power only in one direction. Typical applications include
screw jack, vices etc.

M2.3.3 Ball Screws

Ball screws are used to perform tasks which require high speed and high efficiency. The ball
screw is used for many applications previously completed by the conventional power screws. By
using a ball screw the efficiency of performing a task could be greatly improved.

The ball screw assembly includes a circular shaped groove cut in a helix on the shaft. The ball
nut also includes an internal circular shaped groove which matches the shaft groove. The nut is
retained in position on the shaft by balls moving within the groove. When the nut rotates relative
to the shaft the balls move in one direction along the groove supporting any axial load. When the
balls reach one end of the nut they are directed back to the other end via ball guides. The balls
are therefore being continuously re-circulated.

Advantages of a ball screw.

• Have very high efficiency (Over 90%)

• Can be used in applications which require precise and repeatable movement
• Could be easily preloaded to eliminate backlash
• Smooth movement over full travel range
• Smaller size for same load
• Has a longer life for thread

Disadvantages of a ball screw.

• Requires high levels of lubrication

• Possibility of the screw becoming contaminated
• Additional brakes have to be used if locking is required
M2.3.4 Power screw selection
M2.3.5 Examples

Example 1

A stepper motor rotating at 120 rpm is directly coupled to a power screw with a pitch of 1 mm.

1. How fast can the power screw advance the load?

2. If the stepper motor can safely deliver 1 N-m of torque without skipping steps, how much
force can be generated by the power screw?
Example 2

A ball screw with a pitch of 1/8” is raising a mass of 1000 kg. If the efficiency (η) of the screw is
30%.

1. What is the torque required?

2. If the torque is provided with a hand crank, with a radius of 0.15 m, what is the force
required?
Example 3

A power screw with a pitch of 1 mm is directly coupled to a stepper motor which rotates at 60
rpm.

1. If the efficient of the power screw is 35%, what is the stepper motor torque required to
raise a 4450 N load vertically off the floor.
2. What is the power output of the stepper motor?
3. How fast can the power screw advance the load?