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Rodless screw actuator

SCHUNK Beta universal linear axis rodless screw actuator

Universal linear axis offered with toothed belt or spindle drive; the Beta 110 spindle version checked gives 5,120 mm stroke, 1.25 m/s, 6,000 N driving force and ±0.03 mm repeatability.

Key specifications

Temperature0–80 °C
Force (max)6,000 N
Stroke (max)5,120 mm
Linear speed (max)1,250 mm/s
Linear speed (max)1.25 m/s
Screw lead25 mm
Repeatability0.03 mm
DriveToothed belt or spindle
LoadFz max 5,000 N, Fy max 2,000 N (B 110 spindle variant)

Summarised in our own words from SCHUNK SE & Co. KG's published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1 · Source 2

Notes on this data

Specs from one variant (B 110-SRS-M-2525); belt versions differ. Typed rodless-screw for that variant.

Specify Motion is not affiliated with SCHUNK SE & Co. KG. SCHUNK and Beta universal linear axis are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.

Typical applications

Gantries and handling systemsMachine loadingLong-stroke positioning

Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures

Engineers often come to us with a SCHUNK 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.

Rodless screw actuator

Tolomatic B3S Screw-Drive Rodless

Meets or exceeds on 2 of 3 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 maximumBeta universal linear axisB3S Screw-Drive Rodless
Force6,000 N12,010 N meets or exceeds
Stroke5,120 mm4,547 mm
Speed1,250 mm/s1,524 mm/s meets or exceeds
View B3S Screw-Drive Rodless →
Meets or exceeds on 1 of 2 figures

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 maximumBeta universal linear axisBCS Rodless Screw (BCS/MCS)
Force6,000 N11,700 N meets or exceeds
Stroke5,120 mm3,048 mm
Speed1,250 mm/s—
View BCS Rodless Screw (BCS/MCS) →
Meets or exceeds on 1 of 2 figures

Screw-driven rodless actuator in six sizes, with a solid-bearing (S) or profiled-rail (P) carrier for moderate to heavy guided loads.

Published maximumBeta universal linear axisMXE Screw-Drive Rodless (MXE-S / MXE-P)
Force6,000 N19,127 N meets or exceeds
Stroke5,120 mm3,411 mm
Speed1,250 mm/s—
View MXE Screw-Drive Rodless (MXE-S / MXE-P) →

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 SCHUNK Beta universal linear axis

Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right Beta universal linear axis 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

SCHUNK Beta universal linear axis: frequently asked questions

What is the SCHUNK Beta universal linear axis?

Universal linear axis offered with toothed belt or spindle drive; the Beta 110 spindle version checked gives 5,120 mm stroke, 1.25 m/s, 6,000 N driving force and ±0.03 mm repeatability. Published series figures include temperature 0 °C, temperature 80 °C, force 6,000 N, stroke 5,120 mm. It is made by SCHUNK SE & Co. KG; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.

Who makes the SCHUNK Beta universal linear axis?

The SCHUNK Beta universal linear axis is made by SCHUNK (SCHUNK SE & Co. KG) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with SCHUNK SE & Co. KG; brand names are used only to identify the product.

What is the temperature of the SCHUNK Beta universal linear axis?

The published series minimum temperature is 0 °C. Individual models and sizes in the Beta universal linear axis 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 SCHUNK Beta universal linear axis?

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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