The operating accuracy and lifespan of linear guides depend not only on their machining precision but also on the effects of dust, particulate matter, and liquid contamination in the working environment. Therefore, dustproof configuration of linear guides is crucial for ensuring long-term stable operation. This article details dustproof configuration solutions for different types of linear guides, including dustproof measures for sliders and guide rails.
1. LMG/LMGQ Heavy Duty Linear Guides
1.1 Slider Dustproof
- Dustproof Accessories
The LMG series offers various dustproof accessories to prevent foreign objects from entering the slider during operation.
- Increase in Dustproof Accessory Types and Standard Slider Length
The length of sliders varies depending on the type of dustproof accessories used. Please refer to the table below.
| Model No. | No symbol | UU | SS | VV | ZZ | DD | KK |
| LMG 15 | - | - | - | - | 7 | 6 | 13 |
| LMG 20 | - | - | - | - | 7 | 6 | 13 |
| LMG 25 | - | - | - | - | 7 | 6 | 13 |
| LMG 30 | - | - | - | - | 7 | 6 | 13 |
| LMG 35 | - | - | - | - | 7 | 6 | 13 |
| LMG 45 | - | - | - | - | 7 | 6 | 13 |
| LMG 55 | - | - | - | - | 7 | 6 | 13 |
1.2 Guide Rail Dustproof
- Rail Mounting Hole Covers
To prevent chips or foreign objects from entering the slider through the bolt holes and affecting the operating accuracy and lifespan of the linear guide, bolt hole covers must be used to fill the bolt holes during installation. This also improves the dustproof effect of the end face seals.
- Bolt Cover Installation
The plastic bolt hole cover can be installed by using a flat piece and a plastic hammer to tap it into the bolt hole until it is flush with the upper surface of the guide rail. Please refer to the diagram below.
- Plastic Bolt Hole Cover Dimensions
| Code of Plastic Cap | Bolt Size | D（mm） | h（mm） | Rail Model |
| L3 | M3 | 6.2 | 1.1 | LMG/GQ 15U |
| L4 | M4 | 7.5 | 1.1 | LMG/GQ 15R |
| L5 | M5 | 9.7 | 2.4 | LMG/GQ 20R |
| L6 | M6 | 11.2 | 2.7 | LMG/GQ 25R，LMG 30U |
| L8 | M8 | 11.4 | 3.3 | LMG 30R，LMG 35R |
| L12 | M12 | 20.2 | 4.5 | LMG 45R |
| L14 | M14 | 23.2 | 5.5 | LMG 55R |
2. LMR Roller Type Linear Guide
2.1 Slider Dust Protection
- Dustproof Accessories
The LMR series offers various dustproof accessories to prevent foreign objects from entering the slider during operation.
- Dustproof Accessory Types and Increase in Standard Slider Length
The length of various slider models will vary depending on the type of dustproof accessory selected. Please refer to the table below.
| Model No. | No symbol | ZZ | KK |
| LMR 25 | - | - | 6 |
| LMR 30 | - | - | 6 |
| LMR 35 | - | - | 8 |
| LMR 45 | - | - | 6 |
| LMR 55 | - | - | 6 |
2.2 Guide Rail Dust Protection
- Guide Rail Bolt Hole Cover
To prevent chips or foreign objects from entering the slider through the bolt holes and affecting the linear guide rail's running accuracy and service life, a bolt hole cover must be used to fill the bolt holes during installation. This also improves the dustproof effect of the end face seal.
- Installation Method for Plastic Bolt Hole Covers
The plastic bolt hole cover can be installed by using a flat piece and a plastic hammer to tap it into the bolt hole until it is flush with the upper surface of the guide rail. Please refer to the diagram below.
- Dimensions of Plastic Bolt Hole Covers
| Code of Plastic Cap | Bolt Size | D（mm） | h（mm） | Rail Model |
| L6 | M6 | 11.2 | 2.8 | LMR25R |
| L8 | M8 | 14.2 | 3.3 | LMR30R，LMR35R |
| L12 | M12 | 20.2 | 4.5 | LMR45R |
| L14 | M14 | 23.2 | 5.5 | LMR55R |
3. Maintenance Methods for Dustproof Guide Rails
Even with a good dustproof design, regular maintenance is still essential:
3.1 Regular Cleaning
Wipe the guide rail surface with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove dust near the dust cover.
3.2 Check for Wear on Dustproof Components
Replace any cracked or worn dust covers or seals on the sliders promptly.
3.3 Replenish Grease
For sliders with lubrication grooves, replenish grease according to the manufacturer's recommended intervals to ensure smooth ball bearing operation.
3.4 Environmental Control
Minimize the spillage of chips, dust, and liquids around the guide rail. Install an outer cover or dust extraction system if necessary.
Summary
The high-precision operation of linear guides in industrial equipment relies heavily on effective dustproof configurations. When designing and selecting dustproof configurations, the working environment, load, speed, ease of maintenance, and material durability should be comprehensively considered. With proper dustproof design and regular maintenance, linear guides can achieve long-term stable operation, extend equipment life, and improve production efficiency.
If you have any questions regarding dustproofing or other issues, please feel free to contact us!