The guide to the right thread technology
Choosing the right Thread technology is essential for the success of a project, be it in automation, medical technology or mechanical engineering. This guide will help you to find the right thread technology step by step, based on the requirements for load, precision and service life.
Table of contents
- Analysis of the project requirements
- Service life requirements
- Comparison of thread types
- Material and surface treatment
- Professional support with the selection
- Conclusion

Analyze the project requirements: What does your project really need?
The first step in choosing the right Thread technology is a thorough analysis of the project requirements. These include
- Load: How high is the maximum load that the thread must bear? This has a significant influence on the choice of technology.
- Precision: How precisely must the thread work? Precision requirements are particularly important in medical technology and automation.
- Ambient conditions: In what environment will the thread be used? Moisture, dust or extreme temperatures can influence the choice of material and maintenance.
- installation space: How much space is available for the thread? A compact design is crucial in confined applications.
Tip: Make a note of all relevant parameters and prioritize them to avoid later adjustments.
Service life requirements: How to maximize the service life
The Service life of a screw drive depends on various factors, including the load, operating conditions and maintenance intervals. Here are the most important aspects to maximize the service life:
- Load cycles and material fatigue: Each thread only achieves a limited number of cycles before material fatigue occurs. Ball screw drives are particularly suitable for high to very high numbers of cycles due to their high resistance to wear.
- Operating temperature: Extreme temperatures can shorten the service life. Selected materials or special coatings can extend the service life in such environments.
- Corrosion resistance: In environments with high humidity or aggressive chemicals, the corrosion resistance of the material plays a decisive role. Stainless steel and special coatings offer the best protection here.
- Friction and wear: Low friction means less wear. Ball screw drives are characterized by their low coefficient of friction, which extends their service life.
- Dimensioning: A perfectly selected thread extends the service life and reduces costs.
Tip: Make sure that your thread meets the specific load requirements to ensure maximum service life.
Comparison of thread types: Ball thread, steep thread or round thread?
Choosing the right Thread type depends on the requirements. Here is an overview of the most common types:
- Ball screw thread: Ideal for high loads and precise movements. Our Carry Ball screw drives are low-friction, energy-efficient and particularly durable.
- Steep thread: If speed plays a central role, steep threads such as Speedy the best choice. They offer fast linear movements with moderate loads.
- Round thread: These threads offer smooth running and robustness, particularly suitable for environments with dust or dirt. In addition, the efficiency of our round thread Rondo noticeably higher than that of a normal trapezoidal thread.
Tip: Choose ball screw threads for precision under high loads and steep threads for fast movements.
Material and surface treatment: the key to longevity
Choosing the right Materials and surface treatment is crucial to the performance and longevity of your Thread technology:
- Ball bearing steel: This offers high strength and is suitable for applications with high loads.
- Stainless steel: Particularly resistant to corrosion, ideal for use in demanding environments such as the food and pharmaceutical industries.
- Aluminum: Lightweight yet durable, ideal for applications where weight is critical. As aluminum is non-magnetic, it is ideal wherever magnetism is not desired.
Coatings for extended service life in the form of corrosion protection and friction reduction
- Hard chrome plating (Duralloy): Protects against abrasion and corrosion, ideal for applications with high wear.
- Teflon coating: Reduces friction, which extends service life and minimizes maintenance intervals.
- Space coatings (Dicronite): Avoid the need for lubrication and minimize wear.
Tip: Select the coating according to the environmental requirements to minimize maintenance and wear.
Design support: contact us for a customized solution
The right Thread technology is a decisive factor in the success of a project. As the number 1 for customized threading technology solutions, Eichenberger is at your side with over 60 years of experience. Contact us for a Free and non-binding adviceto find the right solution for you.
Conclusion
The Choosing the right thread technology is a decisive factor for the success of your project, be it in the field of automation, medical technology or mechanical engineering. A precise analysis of the project requirements - such as Load, Precision, Ambient conditions and Installation space - lays the foundation for an efficient and durable solution. The selection of the right thread type, whether ball thread, steep thread or round thread, depends on your specific requirements and contributes significantly to performance.
In addition, they influence Materials and coatings the service life and maintenance intervals of your thread technology. The right combination of these factors ensures that your system can withstand daily stresses and functions reliably, even in demanding environments.