Igus Introduces New Drylin ZLX Toothed Belt Axis

Igus has expanded its drive technology range with the new drylin ZLX high-performance toothed belt axis. The compact, robust, and self-lubricating series features an anodized aluminum profile with a completely new geometric design, making it easy to integrate into modular profile systems. With a load capacity of 150N and speeds up to 3m/s, the drylin ZLX is ideal for automated production lines, pick-and-place systems, 3D printers, and more.

The heart of the new toothed belt axis is the linear guide system from the drylin W series, size 16, integrated into a robust, corrosion-resistant, clear anodized profile. Unlike other igus axes, the toothed belt runs inside the profile, giving the axis the appearance of a mechanical engineering profile.

“Classic aluminum profiles have specific dimensions and standards for grooves, which our drylin ZLX meets,” says Matt Mowry, drylin product manager at igus. “Using standard slot nuts and connecting elements, combining with other mechanical engineering profiles is easy. This modularity is especially useful for linear robot structures, and the design ensures a cohesive, uniform look.”

Customers benefit from a standardized design and reduced assembly times. The belt tension can be adjusted directly on the carriage without dismantling components using a simple adjusting screw.

The drylin ZLX operates quietly and robustly, running without lubricant over its entire stroke length. igus employs a “sliding instead of rolling” principle, using guide systems that work over a large area on the rail or shaft. This design uses plastic components and softer materials like aluminum, making the axis lighter and quieter.

The carriage moves over lines made of the tribopolymer iglide J200, providing a long service life with both fast and slow adjustments. Solid lubricants integrated into the plastic enable maintenance-free dry operation.

The drylin ZLX features an optimized guide system ratio, enhancing the wear resistance of the toothed belt by reducing stress. The drylin W linear guide, size 16, ensures a longer service life. Tests show it can achieve up to 20,000km of maintenance-free operation with a horizontal load of 5kg and a speed of 0.5m/s. The service life is predictable online.

The new toothed belt axis is versatile and suitable for linear robot structures and standalone operations. Multiple grooves allow for attaching accessories like sensor mounts or protective devices. Igus supplies the axes ready for installation with electric motors, offering stepper, EC/BLDC, or DC motor options. These motors can be operated with the D1 universal control system or cost-effective drives like D3, D5, D7, D8, or D9. The flexible design allows for attaching customer motors from other manufacturers upon request.

The drive can be implemented via a double-expanding mandrel or a plug-in shaft, providing adaptability for various applications, including automated production lines and 3D printers. Users can configure the new linear guide in minutes using the drylin drive technology online configurator.