Rodless screw actuator
HIWIN KK rodless screw actuator
HIWIN's compact single-axis stage combining a U-rail linear guideway and ballscrew, from KK30 to KK130; series maximum 1,511 mm stroke, 1,480 mm/s and +/-0.003 mm repeatability (precision grade).
Key specifications
| Stroke (max) | 1,511 mm |
|---|---|
| Linear speed (max) | 1,480 mm/s |
| Screw lead | 1 to 25 |
| Screw type | ballscrew |
| Repeatability | 0.003 mm |
| Sizes | KK30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 86, 100, 130 |
Summarised in our own words from HIWIN Technologies Corp.'s published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1 · Source 2
Notes on this data
Catalogue K99TE16-1906 (2019). Payload is derived from load ratings and moments, not tabulated.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with HIWIN Technologies Corp.. HIWIN and KK are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures
Engineers often come to us with a HIWIN part number and leave with an alternative that is easier to source, quicker to deliver or a better fit for the machine. These 3 series from our supply network are the closest match on published figures.
Screw-driven rodless actuator with recirculating ball-bearing guidance integral to the extrusion, so it carries loads up to 35.6 kN (with carrier options) without external guides.
| Published maximum | KK | B3S Screw-Drive Rodless |
|---|---|---|
| Force | — | 12,010 N |
| Stroke | 1,511 mm | 4,547 mm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 1,480 mm/s | 1,524 mm/s meets or exceeds |
Economical rodless screw actuator derived from the BC2 band cylinder, with solid-bearing rods and a stainless band seal for light to moderate loads.
| Published maximum | KK | BCS Rodless Screw (BCS/MCS) |
|---|---|---|
| Force | — | 11,700 N |
| Stroke | 1,511 mm | 3,048 mm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 1,480 mm/s | — |
Screw-driven rodless actuator in six sizes, with a solid-bearing (S) or profiled-rail (P) carrier for moderate to heavy guided loads.
| Published maximum | KK | MXE Screw-Drive Rodless (MXE-S / MXE-P) |
|---|---|---|
| Force | — | 19,127 N |
| Stroke | 1,511 mm | 3,411 mm meets or exceeds |
| Speed | 1,480 mm/s | — |
Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What a rodless screw actuator is
A rodless screw actuator moves a carriage along the actuator body using a ball or lead screw inside a profile. The load mounts directly on the carriage, which runs on guides, either internal bearings or profile rails, so the actuator carries and guides the load as well as moving it. A sealing band typically closes the slot along the body. The motor mounts at one end, inline or folded, and stroke is set by the body length.
When engineers choose a rodless screw actuator
Choose a rodless screw actuator when the load needs carrying along a guided path with good positioning accuracy and stiffness, such as in pick-and-place, gantries and positioning axes. Screw drive gives high thrust and precision. The trade-offs are speed and length: long screws hit critical speed limits, so long strokes run slower. For long, fast strokes with lighter loads, a belt-driven rodless actuator is usually better.
How to specify the HIWIN KK
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right KK variant or an equivalent:
- Payload mass and position offset (kg, mm)
- Moment loads on the carriage (Nm)
- Stroke (mm), speed (mm/s) and acceleration (m/s²)
- Thrust force needed (N)
- Repeatability (mm)
- Orientation: horizontal, vertical or wall-mounted
- Environment and sealing (IP code)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring moment loads from offset payloads
- Choosing a long stroke at high speed and exceeding screw critical speed
- Not adding a brake for vertical axes
- Assuming the sealing band keeps out fine dust or liquids
HIWIN KK: frequently asked questions
What is the HIWIN KK?
HIWIN's compact single-axis stage combining a U-rail linear guideway and ballscrew, from KK30 to KK130; series maximum 1,511 mm stroke, 1,480 mm/s and +/-0.003 mm repeatability (precision grade). Published series figures include stroke 1,511 mm, linear speed 1,480 mm/s, repeatability 0.003 mm. It is made by HIWIN Technologies Corp.; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the HIWIN KK?
The HIWIN KK is made by HIWIN (HIWIN Technologies Corp.) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with HIWIN Technologies Corp.; brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the stroke of the HIWIN KK?
The published series maximum stroke is 1,511 mm. Individual models and sizes in the KK range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
Is there an alternative to the HIWIN KK?
Yes. On published figures, Tolomatic B3S Screw-Drive Rodless and Tolomatic BCS Rodless Screw (BCS/MCS) are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
Is a belt or screw rodless actuator better?
A screw rodless actuator gives more thrust, stiffness and positioning accuracy, which suits pressing, vertical axes and precise positioning. A belt actuator is faster and handles longer strokes, which suits transfer and pick-and-place over distance. Many machines use both: belts for long horizontal moves and screws for shorter, precise or vertical axes.
What limits the speed of a screw-driven actuator?
Speed is limited by the screw's critical speed, the rotation at which it starts to whip. Critical speed falls sharply as unsupported length increases, so long strokes have lower maximum speeds. Screw supports, larger diameters or a coarser lead raise usable speed. Manufacturers publish speed against stroke curves that should be checked.
Further reading: Rodless belt vs screw actuators · How to size a linear actuator · Linear actuators
Other rodless screw actuator series
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