Original THK Cross-Roller Ring RU/RB/RA Series - Precision Rotation for Robots
THK, the pioneer of global Linear Motion (LM) systems, sets the industry standard with its Cross-Roller Ring series. In this specialized field, the THK RU Series (with integrated mounting holes) is regarded as the quintessential component for high-performance robotics. While other brands may focus on compactness or material life, THK excels in "ultimate rotational accuracy" and "universal adaptability." By arranging cylindrical rollers perpendicularly in a 90° V-groove and utilizing patented Spacer Retainers, THK eliminates friction between rollers to achieve sub-micron level runout accuracy. These bearings are the soul of the world's top collaborative robots, surgical tables, and semiconductor handling arms.
Product Highlights
- RU Series Integrated Mounting Holes: Both inner and outer rings feature pre-drilled mounting holes, allowing direct fixation without flanges or housing covers. This drastically simplifies assembly and minimizes cumulative error.
- Spacer Retainer Technology: THK's patented spacer design prevents roller skewing and mutual friction, ensuring extremely low torque fluctuation even at high speeds.
- Peak Rotational Accuracy (USP Grade Available): Offers up to USP (Ultra-Super Precision) grade runout control, meeting the extreme demands of semiconductor fabrication and surgical robotics.
- H Series High Rigidity Enhancement: The newly introduced RB-H/RE-H/RU-H series offers dimensional interchangeability with existing products while providing enhanced rigidity for high-impact industrial environments.
- Comprehensive Structural Matrix: From the standard RB to the outer-ring rotating RE, and the ultra-slim RA/RA-C, THK provides the most complete selection of cross-roller bearings in the world.
- Omni-Directional Load Handling: A single THK cross-roller ring can replace two conventional bearings, significantly reducing the axial length of rotary joints.
Core Parameter Table (Key Series)
| Series |
Structural Features |
Precision Class |
OD Range (mm) |
Core Advantage |
Typical Application |
| RU |
Integrated Mounting Holes |
P5 / P4 / P2 |
35 - 350 |
Plug & Play Integration |
Cobot Joints, Medical RTs |
| RB / RB-H |
Separable Outer Ring |
P5 / P4 / USP |
70 - 1500 |
Robust Load Capacity |
Spindles, Industrial Arms |
| RE / RE-H |
Separable Inner Ring |
P5 / P4 / USP |
70 - 1500 |
Outer-Ring Rotation |
Revolving Doors, Heavy Automation |
| RA / RA-C |
Thin-Walled / Compact |
P5 / P4 |
66 - 226 |
Extreme Lightweight |
Surgical Robots, Small Arms |
| VR / VRG |
Cross-Roller Guide |
Ultra-Precision |
N/A |
Smooth Linear/Curved Motion |
Vision Stages, Pick & Place |
Application Fields
- Collaborative Robotics (Cobots): Main support bearings for axes 1-6; the RU series is particularly favored for its minimalist assembly.
- Semiconductor & Electronics: Wafer dicing machines, AOI (Automated Optical Inspection) turntables, and precision die bonders.
- Precision Medical Equipment: Final joints for surgical robots, high-precision CT scanner tables, and radiotherapy gantry rotation.
- High-End Machine Tools: CNC indexing tables, 4th/5th axis rotary heads, and Automatic Tool Changers (ATC).
- Aerospace & Defense: Satellite antenna pitch mechanisms and ground-tracking station rotary bases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the THK RU series so popular in the robotics industry?
A: Primarily because of its integrated mounting holes. You don't need to design complex flanges to secure it, which saves costs and reduces assembly errors caused by machining tolerances.
Q: How do you guarantee these are 100% genuine Japanese THK products?
A: We deal directly with authorized THK channels. Every unit carries an official THK anti-counterfeit label and supports factory serial number tracking, ensuring original THK material quality.
Q: What is the difference between the RA and RA-C series?
A: RA is the standard thin-walled type; RA-C is a compact version optimized for improved stability when the outer ring rotates.
Q: What happens if the bolt pre-tension is uneven during installation?
A: This is dangerous. Uneven pre-tension can cause slight bearing deformation, leading to rotation jitter or loss of precision. We recommend following THK's torque specifications using a diagonal cross-tightening sequence.
Q: Can these bearings be used in high-vacuum environments?
A: Yes. THK offers specialized vacuum greases (e.g., AFE-CA) and options for ceramic balls or stainless steel components for semiconductor fabrication in vacuum.
Q: What is the typical lead time?
A: We stock common models like the RU124, RU148, and RB14025 (1-2 weeks). Large-diameter or H-series high-rigidity models typically require 10-14 weeks factory lead time.