What Parameters Are Needed for an Automation Linear Module Ball Screw RFQ

A linear module is not only one screw

An automation linear module usually includes a ball screw, slide, guide rail, support units, motor connection, and mounting base. If the RFQ only states a screw model, length, rigidity, end machining, and assembly limits are unclear.

Slide and guide rail affect load review

Slide size, guide rail quantity, guide rail specification, and mounting direction affect load behavior. State whether the load is centered or offset, and whether cantilever load, impact, vertical mounting, or multi-axis combination exists.

Motor connection should define the interface

Motor connection includes coupling end diameter, length, keyway, flat, flange size, reducer, or servo motor interface. End machining must match the motor side, or module total length and mounting holes may not fit.

Repeatability and cycle time decide specification

Repeatability, target speed, acceleration, cycle time, and daily running hours affect lead, accuracy, preload, and lubrication. Automation projects should avoid stating only maximum speed without normal cycle time.

Quote prototype and batch stages separately

A linear module project may start with prototypes before batch production. The RFQ should state prototype quantity, estimated batch quantity, drawing revision, inspection report, packing, labels, and shipment photos if needed.

Linear module RFQ checklist

Linear module use, automation station, travel, mounting method, and space limit.
Slide size, guide rail specification, load, offset load, impact, and multi-axis combination.
Motor connection, coupling end, support unit, end machining, and mounting hole positions.
Repeatability, cycle time, speed, quantity, prototype or batch stage, packing, and lead time.

Typical buyer situations

This topic usually appears in distributor stocking, repair replacement, machine retrofit, automation projects, and drawing-based purchasing. If a buyer sends only one model number, the supplier cannot judge the real use, packing risk, or whether machining upgrades are needed.

Details to confirm before quotation

To reduce repeated questions, the RFQ should cover product specification, use case, and delivery expectations together. The following points can be copied into the RFQ form or email.

Purchase purpose: distributor stock, repair replacement, machine project, or sample testing.
Specification: diameter, lead, overall length, thread length, nut type, and quantity.
Machining: cut-to-length, end machining, and whether BK/BF, FK/FF, EK/EF, or other supports must be matched.
Delivery: target quantity, expected lead time, packing, labels, shipping method, and whether shipment photos are required.

Common mistakes

A common mistake is asking only for unit price without application, quantity, or packing details. Another is sending photos without dimensions. This turns quotation into guesswork and can create errors in end machining, nut matching, or long-part shipping.

Next step

If the specification is clear, submit an RFQ directly. If the model or accuracy grade is still uncertain, describe the machine use and old part details so the supplier can recommend a standard part, bar stock, cut-to-length, or end machining route.