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Rodless screw actuator

igus drylin SAW / SLW rodless screw actuator

Lubrication-free lead screw linear modules with trapezoidal or high-helix dryspin threads, supplied manual or ready for stepper motors (NEMA 17 to 24); strokes up to 750 mm in the listed range.

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Key specifications

Stroke (max)750 mm
Screw typetrapezoidal (e.g. TR10x2, TR12x3) or high-helix dryspin lead screw
NEMA sizes17, 23, 24

Summarised in our own words from igus SE & Co. KG's published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1

Notes on this data

The page read gives no speed, force or repeatability; check igus datasheets per model.

Specify Motion is not affiliated with igus SE & Co. KG. igus and drylin SAW / SLW are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.

igus drylin SAW / SLW replacement and alternative options

Use these supply-network options as a starting point for an engineering check. We can also help source the original igus part. Published series figures do not establish an exact-model or drop-in replacement: confirm ratings, fit, interfaces and approvals for your application.

Limited published data: 1 figure compared

Compact C7 ballscrew linear module with built-in guide, matched to 100-400 W servo motors from the main Japanese and Taiwanese brands.

Published maximumdrylin SAW / SLWBLM Built-in Linear Module
Stroke750 mm1,250 mm meets or exceeds
Speed—1,600 mm/s
Limited published data: 1 figure compared

Ballscrew-driven linear module with built-in guide rail, supplied with or without an AC servo motor, for industrial positioning and multi-axis XY/XYZ systems.

Published maximumdrylin SAW / SLWLE Ballscrew Linear Actuator (semi-sea…
Force—2,050 N
Stroke750 mm1,450 mm meets or exceeds
Speed—1,600 mm/s
Limited published data: 1 figure compared

Fully enclosed, dust-resistant version of the LE ballscrew module for cleanroom and contamination-sensitive work.

Published maximumdrylin SAW / SLWLEC Ballscrew Linear Actuator (fully s…
Force—945 N
Stroke750 mm1,250 mm meets or exceeds
Speed—1,250 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.

Typical applications

Format and width adjustmentLaboratory equipmentLow-duty positioning

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 igus drylin SAW / SLW

Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right drylin SAW / SLW 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

igus drylin SAW / SLW: frequently asked questions

Can you help replace igus drylin SAW / SLW or source the original?

Send the full model code, quantity and required date. Our engineers can check original-part availability and assess suitable alternatives, including Motion Control Products options where appropriate. We confirm compatibility and any changes needed before recommending a replacement.

What is the igus drylin SAW / SLW?

Lubrication-free lead screw linear modules with trapezoidal or high-helix dryspin threads, supplied manual or ready for stepper motors (NEMA 17 to 24); strokes up to 750 mm in the listed range. Published series figures include stroke 750 mm. It is made by igus SE & Co. KG; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.

Who makes the igus drylin SAW / SLW?

The igus drylin SAW / SLW is made by igus (igus SE & Co. KG) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with igus SE & Co. KG; brand names are used only to identify the product.

What is the stroke of the igus drylin SAW / SLW?

The published series maximum stroke is 750 mm. Individual models and sizes in the drylin SAW / SLW 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 igus drylin SAW / SLW?

We can assess suitable replacement options. On published figures, Motion Control Products BLM Built-in Linear Module and Motion Control Products LE Ballscrew Linear Actuator (semi-sealed) are options to assess 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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Tell us how you use the igus drylin SAW / SLW: the load, speed, duty and environment. Our engineers will confirm whether it is still the right part, find it for you, or propose an alternative that fits better.

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