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When your linear axis binds, wobbles, or wears out prematurely, the root cause is almost always an undersized or mismatched bearing. Engineers, makers, and machine builders who demand repeatable, low-friction travel need a linear motion ball bearing that fits precisely and holds up under continuous cycling. The LME series linear ball bearings are designed for metric shaft systems and are a go-to choice for CNC router builds, 3D printer carriages, pick-and-place machines, and industrial linear actuators.
Each LME bearing consists of a hardened steel outer shell with recirculating ball tracks and a precision-ground bore sized to match standard metric shafts. Available in eight sizes from LME8UU (8×16×25 mm / 0.31×0.63×0.98 in) through LME50UU (50×75×100 mm / 1.97×2.95×3.94 in), the series covers the most common metric shaft diameters used in motion control applications. The compact UU double-seal configuration keeps contaminants out while retaining lubrication for extended service life.
Typical use cases include: replacing worn carriage bearings on a CNC gantry for tighter positional accuracy; upgrading the Z-axis linear guides on a delta or Cartesian 3D printer to reduce layer-shift artifacts; and integrating into custom linear actuator assemblies for robotics or automated test fixtures where smooth, repeatable stroke motion is critical.
From LME8UU to LME50UU, covering inner diameters of 8, 12, 16, 20, 25, 30, 40, and 50 mm — one consistent series for mixed-size machine builds.
Internal recirculating ball circuits distribute load evenly across the shaft, enabling smooth, low-friction linear travel in both directions without stick-slip.
Dual contact seals on both ends block dust, chips, and moisture from entering the ball tracks, extending service intervals in workshop and light-industrial environments.
Outer shell and ball elements are manufactured from hardened bearing steel, providing the rigidity and wear resistance needed for high-cycle linear motion applications.
Outer diameter and length conform to LME-series metric standards, making these bearings direct drop-in replacements for existing LME housings and pillow blocks.
Suitable for CNC machines, 3D printers, laser cutters, linear actuators, robotic arms, and automated assembly equipment requiring precise, repeatable linear motion.
| Series | LME (Metric, Double-Seal UU) |
|---|---|
| Available Models | LME8UU, LME12UU, LME16UU, LME20UU, LME25UU, LME30UU, LME40UU, LME50UU |
| Inner Diameter (ID) | 8 mm / 12 mm / 16 mm / 20 mm / 25 mm / 30 mm / 40 mm / 50 mm |
| Outer Diameter (OD) | See variant options |
| Length | See variant options |
| Size Range (OD × Length) | 16×25 mm (LME8UU) to 75×100 mm (LME50UU) |
| Material | Hardened bearing steel |
| Seal Type | Double contact seal (UU) |
| Shaft Compatibility | Standard metric round shafts (h6 tolerance recommended) |
| Motion Type | Linear (recirculating ball) |
| Lubrication | Factory pre-lubricated |
| Weight | See variant options |
Match the bearing's inner diameter (ID) to your shaft diameter. For example, if your linear shaft is 12 mm in diameter, select the LME12UU. The outer diameter and length are fixed per model and must also fit your housing or pillow block. Check the size table above for full dimensions before ordering.
An h6 shaft tolerance is recommended for a smooth sliding fit with minimal radial play. Shafts with looser tolerances (h7 or beyond) may introduce unwanted play, while interference fits can restrict ball movement. Use precision-ground or hardened linear shafts for best results.
The double-seal (UU) design provides meaningful protection against dust and light moisture, making these bearings suitable for workshop and light-industrial use. For prolonged outdoor exposure or washdown environments, consider supplementing with external sealing or periodic re-lubrication to maintain performance.
LME bearings follow a different dimensional standard than LM (Japanese) or SC series bearings. While the inner diameter may match, the outer diameter and length often differ. Always verify OD and length against your housing specifications before substituting. LME bearings are direct replacements for other LME-series components.
Service life depends on load, speed, lubrication, and shaft surface finish. Under typical light-to-medium loads with proper lubrication and a hardened shaft, LME bearings are rated for millions of travel cycles. Heavier loads or contaminated environments will reduce service life — inspect periodically and re-lubricate as needed.
Yes, each LME bearing is factory pre-lubricated and ready to install. For high-duty-cycle applications or after extended storage, applying a small amount of compatible lithium-based or NLGI #2 grease through the seal before installation is recommended to ensure optimal performance from the start.
LME bearings are well-suited for CNC router and milling machine carriages, 3D printer X/Y/Z axes, laser cutter gantries, linear actuators, robotic arm joints, and automated assembly or pick-and-place equipment. Any application requiring smooth, repeatable linear travel on a metric round shaft is a strong candidate.
