LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

MONORAIL Profiled Linear Guideway

 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Table of Contents 1 Product Overview

1.1 Roller-MONORAIL MR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 4
1.2 Roller-MONORAIL MZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 4
1.3 MONORAIL AMS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 6
1.4 Ball-MONORAIL BM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 6

2 Applications
2.1 MONORAIL MR in a 3-axis drilling and milling machine
with integrated distance measuring system AMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 10
2.2 MONORAIL MZ with integrated rack in a 3-axis profile/contour
machining machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 11
2.3 MONORAIL BM in a 4-axis drilling and milling center for printed
circuit boards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 13

3 Technical data
3.1 Accuracy classes G0, G1, G2, G3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 15
3.2 Dimensional tolerances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 15
3.3 Running accuracy  of the carriages on the rails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 15
3.4 Preload classes V1, V2, V3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 16
3.5 Rails and carriage information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 16
3.6 Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 19
3.7 General data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 30

4 Roller-MONORAIL MR
4.1 Product features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 31
4.2 Dimension tables, loading capacities carriage types MRA, MRB . . . . . . . • 34
4.3 Dimension tables, loading capacities carriage types MRC, MRD . . . . . . . • 36
4.4 Rigidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 38
4.5 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 40
4.6 Ordering information MR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 47

5 Roller-MONORAIL MZ
5.1 Product features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 51
5.2 Dimension table, loading capacities MONORAIL MZ with MRE . . . . . . . . • 52
5.3 Dimension table, loading capacities MONORAIL MR-X with MRC . . . . . . • 53
5.4 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 54
5.5 Ordering information MZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 55

6 MONORAIL AMS
6.1 Product features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 57
6.2 Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 60
6.3 Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 61
6.4 Ordering information MONORAIL MR with AMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 62

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 7 Ball-MONORAIL BM
7.1 Product features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 67
7.2 Dimension table, loading capacities carriage types BMA, BMB . . . . . . . . • 70
7.3 Dimension table, loading capacities carriage types BMC, BMD . . . . . . . . • 72
7.4 Rigidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 74
7.5 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 76
7.6 Ordering information BM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 82

8 Dimensioning
8.1 Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 86
8.2 Operational life calculation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 87
8.3 Calculation of static reliability factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 89
8.4 Calculation Program for the dimensioning of MONORAILs. . . . . . . . . . . . • 90
8.5 MONORAIL AutoCAD ® library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 93

9 Design and installation

9.1 Installation methods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 94
9.2 Configuration of the locating surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 95
9.3 Configuration of assembly surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 96
9.4 Attaching the rails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 100
9.5 Permissible side force with no locating surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 101
9.6 Installation guidelines MONORAIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 102

10 Precautionary Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • 108

11 The SCHNEEBERGER-Group

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

1 Product Overview

2 Applications

3 Technical data

4 Roller-MONORAIL MR

5 Roller-MONORAIL MZ

6 MONORAIL AMS

7 Ball-MONORAIL BM

8 Dimensioning

9 Design and installation

10 Precautionary Measures

11 The SCHNEEBERGER-Group

•3
 Product Overview
1

1.1 Roller-MONORAIL MR
High rigidity, great dynamic and static load
carrying capacity, outstanding running
smoothness and the total enclosure of
the carriage are the main features of the
MONORAIL guideway. These properties
result in higher machining rates while en-
hancing geometrical accuracy and surface
quality of the machined workpieces. Our
highly rigid MONORAIL provides improved
vibration behavior, smaller vibration am-
plitudes and thus extends tool life.
SCHNEEBERGER has systematically ap-
plied its many years of experience in the
design, production and use of roller-type
anti-friction guideways in the develop-
ment of the MONORAIL. Consequently
the MONORAIL is a cost-effective anti-fric-
tion guideway which meets the challenge
presented by modern machine design.

1.2 Roller-MONORAIL MZ
In the handling and automation industry
increasing use is being made of linear
guiding systems with additional features.
The ever increasing cost pressure and
quality demands on handling and auto-
mation systems in industrial applica-
tions are satisfied by MONORAIL MZ:
● Extremely simple dimensioning and de-
sign of the connecting structure.
● Logical mounting of the guiderail and
carriage systems.
● Optimal load-carrying capacity and
service life based on the well-known
MONORAIL machine guideway.
● Minimum servicing and maintenance as
the design of the MONORAIL is con-
ceived for industrial usage.
● Life and speed uncompromisingly
match the user’s requirements.

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Product Overview
Types and Sizes Accessories Available options

MRA, MRB, MRC, MRD ● Rail cover strip MAB ● Hard-chromed rails
MR 25, 35, 45, 55, 65 ● Plastic plug MRK ● Hard-chromed carriages
● Brass plug MRS ● Through hardened rails
● Steel plug MRZ ● Special hole spacings
NEW ● Additional wiper ZCN, ZCV ● Additional alignment bores and threads
● Metal wiper ASM
● Bellows FBM
NEW ● Lubrication Plate SPL
● Assembly rail MRM
NEW ● Brakes and Clamps

Types and Sizes Accessories Available options

MRE NEW ● Additional wiper ZCN, ZCV ● Special rail length

MZ 25, 35 ● Metal wiper ASM ● Other carriage types
NEW ● Lubrication plate SPL ● Helical rack version
● Assembly rail MRM ● Special tooth pitch
● Standard pinion MZR ● Rail without rack MO

•5
1.3 MONORAIL AMS
SCHNEEBERGER develops and produces
integrated distance measuring systems
for MONORAIL roller guideways.
The technical level achieved sets stand-
ards with respect to economy, accuracy
and reliability.
The AMS (Advanced Measuring System)
represents the current technical state of
the art and is primarily utilized in machine
tools.
For various interfaces, powerful signal
forming electronic systems are available
from SCHNEEBERGER.

1.4 Ball-MONORAIL BM
Very good dynamic characteristics and
high economy are the distinguishing fea-
tures of the Schneeberger ball linear
guideway MONORAIL BM. The novel de-
sign with few but optimally designed com-
ponents, because the small number of
transitions (joints) in the ball tracks makes
outstanding running characteristics possi-
ble, which are distinguished by smooth
running, little pulsation, low friction values
and high travelling speeds. This robust lin-
ear guideway has a wide variety of pos-
sible applications and is an ideal comple-
ment to the roller guideway MR.

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Product Overview
Types and Sizes Accessories

AMSA (analog) ● SMEa interpolation electronics

25, 35, 45, 55, 65 ● Extension/connection cables

Types and Sizes Accessories Available options

BMA, BMB, BMC, BMD ● Rail cover strip BAB ● Hard-chromed rails
BM 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 45 ● Plastic plug BRK ● Hard-chromed carriage
● Additional wipers ZBN /ZBV ● Special hole spacings
and ZBN-U/ZBV-U ● Additional alignment bores and threads
● Metal wipers ABM
NEW ● Bellows FBB
NEW ● Assembly rail MBM
NEW ● Brakes and Clamps

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MONORAIL-Fields of Application and Operating Conditions

BM

G3

auxiliary axes
Handling,
robotics,
G2

CNC machines,
CNC machining
Fields of application
Measuring machines
Accuracy classes

centers
special applications
G1

dressing units,
G0

MR
Preload classes
V1 V2 V3

Operating conditions
Low-friction guideways For high rigidity, For highest rigidity,
for uniform loads, medium, changing high impact/shock
slight vibrations loads and loads and vibrations,
vibrations strongly changing,
high loads and torques

Characteristics

Rigidity

Service lifetime

Moving resistance

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Product Overview
MONORAIL-Linear Guideways

Type Roller MONORAIL MR Ball MONORAIL BM

Design

Technical 4 roller tracks in O-geometry, rollers 4 rows of balls with 2-point contact in O-geome-
characteristics with convex surface, completely try, optimized track geometry with a low num-
sealed carriages, main dimensions ber of transitions, small number of components,
in accordance with DIN 645-1, many reduced maintenance as a result of integrated
versions and lubrication possibilities lubricant reservoirs, completely sealed carriages,
as well as numerous accessories trapezoidal-shaped rail section for a high rigidity
for a broad application range and easier replacement of parts subject to wear,
main dimensions in accordance with DIN 645-1

Loading capacity ●●●● ●●

Rigidity ●●●● ●●●
Accuracy ●●●● ●●●●
Service lifetime ●●●● ●●●
Running characteristics/pulsation ●● ●●●●
Friction characteristics ●● ●●●●
Admissable speed ●●● ●●●●
Easy installation and ●●● ●●●●
maintainance
Requirements on accuracy ●● ●●●
and rigidity of the surrounding
structure
Integrated measuring system yes no
Integrated rack yes no
Main fields of application Machine tools for high metal removal Machine tools for smaller and medium metal re-
performance capacities and long moval performance capacities, auxiliary axes,
service lifetimes, machines/instal- wood processing machines, sheet-metal proc-
lations with minimum assembly essing machines, water-jet-/laser cutting installa-
dimensions, CNC machining centers, tions, automatic punching/stamping machines,
CNC lathes, CNC grinding machines, robotics, handling devices and automation tech-
EDM machines, injection molding nology, electronics and semiconductor technol-
machines ogy, measuring technology, medical technology

●●●● = excellent ● = satisfactory

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 Applications
2

2.1 MONORAIL MR in a 3-axis The machine

drilling and milling machine The 3-axis drilling and milling machine in moving column construction is utilized in manu-
with integrated distance facturing systems for the production of series components. This construction is particu-
measuring system AMS larly adapted to short machining times and high speed. The Y- and Z-axes are driven with
servomotors through balls screw drives, the X-axis with a linear motor. All axes are equip-
ped with roller linear guideways MONORAIL MR with integrated magnetic distance meas-
uring system AMS. The working space is 1400  100  200 mm (X–Y–Z).

The requirements
Because the machine concept was a very compact design with high speed linear drive,
the essential guideway criteria were high rigidity and small size. In addition, a solution for
the integration of a high-resolution distance measuring system had to be found.

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Applications
The SCHNEEBERGER solution
With the MONORAIL MR in this application, the advantages of a compact roller guideway
in O-geometry, such as high rigidity and load-bearing capacity as well as static and dy-
namic precision with a minimum size, were realized. In the X-axis the size MRD 35 could
be utilized despite the high attractive force of the linear motor. Because of the very re-
stricted space conditions for the Y-axis, the described solution could only be achieved
with the utilization of the compact size MR 25 and the integration of the magnetic scale
into the guide rail.

The essential advantages

● Compact machine construction due to a reduced size of the guideways and the inte-
grated distance measuring system
● Improved machine precision with high dynamics due to the high rigidity values of the
roller guideway
● Reduced manufacturing and assembly effort because of the integration of the distance
measuring system AMS into the guideway
● Operational stability of the distance measuring system by means of optimized mechanics
and electronics, even though the linear drive was in close proximity
● High safety margins and long service lifetime due to the high load bearing capacity of
the MONORAIL MR guideways
● Elimination of covers in the Y-axis by using guide carriages sealed on all sides

SCHNEEBERGER products utilized

X-axis 2  MR 35-D2-1800-G1-V3
1  AMSA 35-1800-SI
Y-axis 2  MR 25-C2-0350-G1-V3
1  AMSA 25-0350-SI
Z-axis 2  MR 35-C2-0450-G1-V3
1  AMSA 35-0450-SI

2.2 MONORAIL MZ with The function

integrated rack in a 3-axis The 3-axis machine in gantry construction serves for profile / contour milling, drilling and
profile/contour machining the carving of materials such as wood or acrylic glass. Both the X-axis as well as the Y-
machine axis are equipped with MONORAIL MZ roller guideways, whereby the drive is through the
integrated rack. The Z-axis is equipped with two standard MONORAILs MR. Here the drive
is a recirculating ball spindle.

The requirements
When developing this new robust generation of machines for heavy-duty applications, the
increase of the cutting performance capacity and a high reliability of the machine were
primary objectives. At the same time, the precision and the surface quality were also im-
proved.

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 The SCHNEEBERGER solution
The high demands set could be fulfilled by the utilization of MONORAIL roller guideways
MZ with integrated rack instead of the ball guideways with separate rack previously uti-
lized. The SCHNEEBERGER product in an ideal manner combines the advantages of the
roller guideway, such as a high load-bearing capacity and rigidity with the precision of the
straight toothed MZ rack.

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Applications
The essential advantages
● Space saving by utilizing the roller guideway size 25 (previously ball guideway size 35)
● Savings in time and cost by the elimination of machining – and aligning effort for the
separate rack
● Higher positioning accuracy and repeatability by a defined pinion pre-loading of the pre-
cise MZ rack
● High cutting capacity
● Improved surface quality

SCHNEEBERGER products utilized

X-axis 2  MZ 25-E2-5400-G3-V1
Y-axis 1  MZ 25-E2-3350-G3-V1 and
1  MR 25-C2-3350-X-G3-V1
Z-axis 2  MR 25-C2-0510-X-G3-V1

2.3 MONORAIL BM in a 4-axis The machine

drilling and milling center for On the 4-axis drilling and milling center in gantry construction printed circuit boards are
printed circuit boards machined. Depending on the version, on the X1-axis there are up to 6 drilling heads, which
are coupled to one another via connecting rods and are synchronously moved by means
of a common linear motor. With this, several workpieces can be processed simultaneously.
The drive itself is located on the separate X2-axis, which like the X1-axis is equipped with
high-precision ball MONORAIL BM. The machine table (Y-axis) for moving the workpiece
is also equipped with MONORAIL BM guideways and a linear drive. The tool feed in the
Z-axis is effected using servomotors.

The requirements
The machine outlined set new standards in its class with respect to performance capaci-
ty, precision, high up-time and low maintenance requirements. For the guideways this
meant high demands on the rigidity and running precision of the individual carriages, be-
cause, despite the high accuracy, the design utilized only one carriage per rail to support
each drilling head.

The SCHNEEBERGER solution

The special requirements in this application are appropriately fulfilled by the SCHNEE-
BERGER ball guideway MONORAIL BM, due to its excellent running characteristics and
its high economy. The comparatively high rigidity as well as the straightness of the guide-
ways BM 25 is even improved in the X1- and X2-axes by the utilization of rails with a halved
attachment hole spacing. In the Y-axis with the high magnet forces resulting from the linear
drive, 4 rails are utilized because of the demanded low deflection (sag) of the table. Here
too, thanks to its optimized load-bearing capacity, a ball guideway MONORAIL BM 35 is
utilized.

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 X1
X2

The essential advantages

● High machine accuracy due to rigid guideways with optimized running characteristics,
i. e., low and uniform friction, low pulsation and high running precision of the individual
carriages
● Improved performance capacity, i. e., high speeds and accelerations due to the opti-
mized track geometry and low mass
● Savings in space and weight with size BM 25 while retaining high load-bearing capa-
city and rigidity
● Robustness resulting from a small number of components and complete sealing
● Low maintenance effort due to the easy replacement of parts subject to wear on the
rail and extended lubrication intervals

SCHNEEBERGER products utilized

X1-axis: 2  BM 25-D2-3240-X-G0-V1
X2-axis (linear drive): 2  BM 25-C2-1860-G0-V1
Y-axis: 4  BM 25-C3-1560-G0-V1

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 Technical data
3 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

3.1 Accuracy classes The four accuracy classes allow the user to
∆ C
G0, G1, G2, G3 select the configuration of MONORAIL
guideways that best meets specific appli-
∆ D, E

Technical Data
cation-design requirements. The accuracy
classes determine the dimensional toler-
ances and running accuracy of the carriages
on the rails.

A
B2
C
D E

Locating side Marked side

3.2 Dimensional tolerances

Accuracy- Tolerances 1 rail 2 or more rails
class * A and B2 ** ∆ A and ∆B2 *** ∆ A standard *** ∆ A matched

G0  5 µm 3 µm 10 µm 5 µm
G1  10 µm 5 µm 20 µm 7 µm
G2  20 µm 10 µm 40 µm 10 µm
G3  50 µm 25 µm 100 µm 25 µm
* Measured at the middle of the carriage.
** Dimension difference between two or more carriages of a rail
measured at the middle of the carriage and at the same rail position.
*** Dimension difference of the carriages when two or more rails
are used side-by-side measured at the middle of the carriage
and at the same rail position (state -GP matched when ordering).

3.3 Running accuracy  of the

30
carriages on the rails
Running accuracy  (µm)

G3

20
G2

10 G1
G0

0 200 600 1000 1400 1800 2200 2600 3000

Rail length L3 (mm)

The running of the carriages within the limits of the tolerance can have a linear or wave-
shaped course. The height of the tolerance is determined from the adjacent diagram in
function of the rail length and the accuracy class. Example: L3 = 2000 mm with G2 results
in a permissible tolerance of 0.015 mm.

• 15
3.4 Preload classes Preloading increases the rigidity of the guideway but also affects operational life and
V1, V2, V3 increases translation resistance. The MONORAIL system is available in various preload
classes that correspond to the individual accuracy classes to address specific applica-
tion requirements. The preload is dependent on the dynamic loading capacity C.

Preload class Preload Accuracy class

V1 0.03 • C G0, G1, G2, G3

V2 0.08 • C G0, G1, G2, G3
V3 0.13 • C G0, G1, G2, G3

3.5 Rails and carriage information

Rail lengths Maximum length of single-piece rails L3

Single-piece rails are manufactured in lengths according to the following chart. Longer
rails consist of several pieces with butt joints. The joints are always in the middle of two
attaching holes located.
Rail ends of part segments, which are joined together, are ground on the front side and
have sharp edges. External rail ends and the ends of single-piece rails are cut on the end
sides and deburred. Depending on the deburring process, the ends can manifest a black
discoloration. This discoloration has no influence whatsoever on the quality.

Maximum length of single-piece rails L3 (lengths in mm)

Type Hardening proc. 15 20 25 30 35 45 55 65

MR inductive 3000 3000 3000

through hardened 2000 2000 1800
BM inductive 1500 3000
through hardened 1500
MZ inductive 2400 2400

Standard rails lengths

The standard rail lengths are
for MONORAIL MR and BM L3 = (n* • L4 – 2 mm), for MONORAIL MZ L3 = n • L4

Custom rail lengths

Rail lengths other than those standard rail lengths above are calculated according to the
following formula:
L3 = n • L4 + L5 + L10 mm
The following values should be maintained Marked side
for hole pitch L5 and L10: L5 L4 f2 L10
f
L5 max, L10 max = L4 – ( 2 + 1) mm
2
f2
L5 min, L10 min = + 1 mm
2
Locating side

*n = 3, 4, 5…

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

L -0 mm
Tolerances for rail lengths The length tolerance for single- and multi-piece rails is L33 -2 mm
and attaching holes
The position tolerance of the attaching holes in single- and multi-piece rails is:

Technical Data
Inductive hardened rails BM 15–45, MR 25–65

t (mm) according to DIN ISO 1101 0.4

Through hardened rails Xn ≤ 600 mm Xn  600 mm

t (mm) 0.6 0.001 • Xn

0
-2
L3

n  L4
L4
t

0 X1 X2 X3 Xn

Rails with tapped attachment

holes at the bottom

g3

e2

B1 L5 L4

L3

Size 15 20 25 30 35 45 55 65

e2 (mm) M5 M6 M6 M8 M8 M 12 M 14 M 16
g3 (mm) 8 10 12 15 15 19 22 25

See table in fig. 4.2 / 7.2 for all other dimensions

Ordering information see chapter 4.6 / 7.6

 For MONORAIL BM in applications with high contamination the additional wipers ZBN-U/
ZBV-U are recommended.

• 17
 Through hardened rails MONORAIL-MR-rails can also be supplied in a through hardened version. This has ad-
vantages in the case of the following applications:
● Increased straightness requirements
● Utilization of the rail surface for supporting sheet metal covers
● Protection of the rail surface against scratches or scoring due to bombardment with
metal chips
The maximum single piece length in this case is 1800 mm, for size MR 25 and MR 35
2000 mm. Furthermore, the positioning tolerances of the attachment holes have to be ob-
served.

Hard-chromed rails and For applications requiring a special corrosion protection, e. g. in clean room or vacuum,
carriages because of a high relative humidity or an increased resistance against wear of the surfaces
is required, MONORAIL rails and carriages can also be supplied in a hard-chromed version.
The essential advantages of this coating applied by electro-plating are:
● Very good corrosion protection
● Very high resistance against wear and very high load bearing capacity of the surface
● Exceptional adhesive power and uniform distribution of the thickness of the coating
● Good sliding and therefore emergency running characteristics, because of the micro-
pearl structure

It must be noted, that bores and threads and rolling elements are not chromium-plated.
Carriages in hard-chromed version can only be supplied in preload classes V2, V3. When
ordering, additionally include –H for chromed rails resp. –HH, if rails and carriages have
to be chromed.

Special hole spacings L4 Double or half hole spacing L4: MONORAIL-MR-rails can on request (standard in the
case of MZ) be supplied with double hole spacing L4. It must be noted, that in this case
the load bearing capacity is halved.
Also available for the MONORAIL BM for an increase of the rigidity and in order to improve
the running accuracy are rails with a halved hole spacing (corresponds to MR standard
L4).
Ordering designation: -X-

Other special hole spacings: If the hole spacing changes over the length of the rail,
e.g., at the junction points in case of rails made out of several parts or if a special L4 is re-
quired, then this has to be particularly mentioned in the order and a drawing included.
Ordering designation: -Y-

Additional alignment bores As an option, rails and carriages can be supplied with additional bores for alignment pins
and threads or with additional tapped bores. In such a case, when ordering it is imperative that a draw-
ing is enclosed. For more detailed information, please contact your SCHNEEBERGER
representative.

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

3.6 Lubrication An adequate lubrication is required to maintain the function of linear guideways, because
lubricant protects against wear and corrosion and in addition reduces the friction. This
also calls for a regular subsequent lubrication. Possible lubricants are both grease as well

Technical Data
as liquid grease or oil.

As delivered condition At delivery the carriages are preserved with a roller bearing grease (lithium based saponi-
fied grease). This is sufficient as a protection for the assembly of the guideway. Before tak-
ing into operation it must be guaranteed that enough lubricant is in the carriages and on
the beforehand cleaned rails.

Lubrication connections The front plates are fitted with several prepared lubrication connections with threads. These
are located at the front and on the side (please refer to the table below). Here either a
grease nipple can be attached or a central lubrication system connected. In doing so, both
sides of the carriages (i. e., all four tracks) are provided with lubricant.

The front plates furthermore are equipped with an O-ring seat on top for direct connec-
tion to a central lubrication system through the connection construction. Here too, both
sides of the carriages are provided with lubricant.

In the standard version, the thread M 6 (M 3 in the case of BM 15) at the center of the front
plate (-SM) is foreseen for the connection of the lubrication system. From the factory, these
lubrication bores in the front plate are closed on both sides with a cap plug. The corre-
sponding cap plug for the required bore has to be removed by the customer.
The other connections are closed.

If a lateral connection is required, then this has to be indicated on the order sheet. The lu-
brication connection selected is opened by SCHNEEBERGER and the one at the center
closed.

Ordering information: Front laterally: – SV (not for MR 25, MONORAIL BM)

Lateral: – SS (not for MR 25)

The lateral connections of the sizes BM 15 and BM 20 are prepared so that an M 3 nipple
can be attached.

For a lateral lubrication connection in the case of size MR 25, the intermediate plate ZPL 25
has to be used (please refer to chapter 4.5).

• 19
 Connection thread in the
front plate in front and on the
side m4 m2
d2 SV d SV
1 m1

m3
SS SS
SM
SS

Type Dimensions (mm)

m1 m2 m3 m4 d1 d2

MRA/B 25 5.5
– – – M6 M6
MRC/D 25 9.5
MRA/B 35 7.0 7.0
32.0 6.5 M6 M6
MRC/D 35 14.0 14.0
MRA/B 45 8.0 8.0
40.0 7.5 M6 M6
MRC/D 45 18.0 18.0
MRA/B 55 9.0 9.0
50.0 8.5 M6 M6
MRC/D 55 19.0 19.0
MRB/D 65 13.0 64.0 13.0 12.5 M6 M6

Type Dimensions (mm)

m1 m2 m3 m4 d1 d2

BMA 15 4.0 4.0

– 4.0 M3 M3
BMC 15 8.0 8.0
BMA/B/C/D 20 5.2 – 5.2 5.0 M6 M3
BMA/B 25 5.5 5.5
– 6.0 M6 M6
BMC/D 25 9.5 9.5
BMA/B 30 7.0 7.0
– 6.0 M6 M6
BMC/D 30 10.0 10.0
BMA/B 35 7.0 7.0
– 6.5 M6 M6
BMC/D 35 14.0 14.0
BMA/B 45 8.0 8.0
– 7.5 M6 M6
BMC/D 45 18.0 18.0

• 20
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Lubrication connection If lubrication is required from above, the required location has to be indicated with the
from above order. The necessary retrofitting work is carried out by SCHNEEBERGER.

Technical Data
Ordering information: From above: – SO

d4 d4 C7

d2

MRA/MRB MRC/MRD
BMA/BMB
BMC/BMD

d1 = O-ring internal diameter d3 = O-ring thickness

d2 = Counterbore diameter d4 = Open O-ring internal diameter

C7 (mm) MR 25 MR 35 MR 45 MR 55 MR 65

MRA 12.0 14.0 17.0 21.5 –

MRB 23.2 27.5 34.5 42.5 54.0
MRC 17.0 20.0 27.0 31.5 –
MRD 20.7 22.5 34.5 42.5 49.0
d4 6.0 6.0 6.0 6.0 6.0
d2 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0

C7 (mm) BM 15 BM 20 BM 25 BM 30 BM 35 BM 45

BMA 8.0 10.5 13.2 14.5 14.5 17.0

BMB – 18.5 22.7 25.5 27.25 32.75
BMC 10.0 12.5 18.2 20.5 20.5 27.0
BMD – 13.5 20.2 21.5 22.25 32.75
d4 4.0 6.0 8.0 8.0 8.0 8.0
d2 8.0 10.0 12.0 12.0 12.0 12.0

Type d1  d3

BM 15 4.48  1.78
BM 20, MR 25–65 6.75  1.78
BM 25–45 8.73  1.78

• 21
 General information ● The lubrication connections are plastic threads. Therefore care must be taken when in-
stalling fittings.


● Any retrofitting work on the end plates for changing the lubrication connection should
be carried out by SCHNEEBERGER. In case of rework by the customer, it is necessary
to contact SCHNEEBERGER beforehand.
● Grease nipples as well as lubrication adapter pieces are not included on the carriages
and have to be ordered separately.

Special installation In the case of a lubrication with grease, it is assured that all four tracks of the carriage are
orientations provided with lubricant, in all installation orientations.

Oil, however, has the tendency to follow the law of gravity and therefore to flow down-
wards, thus only to one side of the running track.

In the case of lubrication with oil and a horizontal or vertical installation, no special meas-
ures are needed. On the basis of the significantly reduced lubrication channel volumes,
this is also applicable for an application rotated by 180 deg around the longitudinal axis
of the rail. In case of a vertical installation, the lubrication connection has to be made in
the upper front plate.

If, however, an oil lubrication and a different orientation (e. g., inclined by 10 deg to
90 deg around the longitudinal axis of the rail) is foreseen, then it has to be ensured, that
all four tracks of the carriage are provided with sufficient lubricant. Depending on the type
of guideway, this is achieved differently.

In the case of MONORAIL MR 35–MR 65, both sides of the rail can be lubricated in-
dependently from one another, this is implemented by a modification to the front plate and
by using 2 lubrication connections in front or on the side.

Ordering information: Special: – ST

When ordering, the required connections have to be indicated on the order sheet. For lu-
bricant quantities, refer to the chapter Lubrication with Oil.

In the case of MONORAIL MR 25 and MONORAIL BM 15–45, the lubricant distribu-

tion is effected both during the first lubrication as well as during subsequent lubrication by
injecting the total required quantity of oil either with a single impulse or with several impulses
in close sequence and while the carriage is in motion. For lubricant quantities, refer to the
chapter Lubrication with Oil.

• 22
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

In the case of MONORAIL BM 25–45, both sides of the rail can be lubricated indepen-
dently from one another, this is implemented by mounting a special front plate STB-ST on
one carriage end and by using two lubrication connections on the side.

Technical Data
Ordering information: Special: –ST

When ordering, the required connections have to be indicated on the order sheet. For lu-
bricant quantities, refer to the chapter Lubrication with Oil.


In the case of special installation orientations, the customer should include an installation
drawing with the inquiry, to obtain a recommendation from SCHNEEBERGER regarding
lubrication! In the case of a single lubrication connection per carriage, grease, or liquid
grease, is preferred over oil.

Short stroke – general In the case of a stroke smaller than 2  the carriage length, two lubrication connections
lubrication remark are recommended, i. e., a lubrication from both ends.
If in the case of a short stroke the number of connections is doubled, then the total
quantity of lubricant for subsequent lubrication nonetheless remains the same per car-
riage, i. e., the quantity per end is halved.

Lubrication with oil For the lubrication using oil, SCHNEEBERGER recommends mineral oil CLP (DIN 51517)
or HLP (DIN 51524) in the viscosity range of ISO VG32 to ISO VG100 in accordance with
DIN 51519. Bed track oils CGLP up to ISO VG220 can also be used.

Initial lubrication prior to operation

Prior to operation, the carriages have to be filled with the indicated quantities for the first
lubrication. In doing so, the total oil quantity should be injected in a single impulse or in
several impulses in short succession while the carriage is being moved. The indicated
quantities are applicable per carriage with one connection. If two connections per carriage
are used, then the values have to be correspondingly halved.
In case of a special installation orientation or a short stroke, the lubrication guidelines in
the corresponding chapters have to be followed.

Initial lubrication
oil qty / carriage in cm3 MR 25 MR 35 MR 45 MR 55 MR 65

Any installation orientation 0.95 0.55 0.70 0.90 1.20

Initial lubrication
oil qty / carriage in cm3 BM 15 BM 20 BM 25 BM 30 BM 35 BM 45

Any installation orientation 0.20 0.50 0.60 0.90 1.10 1.20

• 23
 Subsequent lubrication intervals and quantities
The subsequent lubrication intervals depend on the load on the carriages and on external
factors. As an indicative value, with a speed of v  1 m/sec and a load ratio C/P  2, the
following interval for subsequent lubrication can be assumed:

Subsequent lubrication interval = 30 km

The lubrication quantity to be provided in accordance with this lubrication interval can be
taken from the following table.

Applicable in case of a normal installation orientation is:

Table value:
pulse lubrication quantity  number of pulses per lubrication interval

Example: With v = 0.2 m/sec and 100% operating time, the lubrication interval of
30 000 m corresponds to approximately 40 operating hours. With a lubrication quantity
requirement of 0.50 cm3 in accordance with the table, a pulse oil quantity of 0.1 cm3 every
8 hours follows.
In the case of a special installation orientation or short stroke, the lubrication information
in the corresponding chapter has to be observed.

Subsequent lubrication
oil qty per carriage
in cm3 MR 25 MR 35 MR 45 MR 55 MR 65

Normal installation orientation 0.15 0.25 0.35 0.50 0.70

Special installation orientation 0.95 0.55 0.70 0.90 1.20

Subsequent lubrication
oil qty per carriage
in cm3 BM 15 BM 20 BM 25 BM 30 BM 35 BM 45

Norm. inst. orientation 0.07 0.17 0.20 0.30 0.35 0.40

Spec. inst. orientation 0.14 0.34 0.40 0.60 0.70 0.80

Remarks The values indicated above are only guideline values. An accurate determination of the
quantities and intervals can only be determined under real operating conditions.
It is recommended to lubricate at least 1 per month and after a longer machine shut-
down prior to putting it into operation again.
In the case of unfavorable conditions, loads, climate, ambient conditions, a more frequent
lubrication is necessary.

Lubrication with grease SCHNEEBERGER recommends KP2K grease in accordance with DIN 51825.


Attention:
During greasing the carriage should be moved several times over a distance correspond-
ing to at least 3 times its length.

• 24
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Initial greasing prior to operation

After the installation of the MONORAIL guideway, an initial greasing of the carriages has
to take place. This also applies if the mounting of lubrication plates is additionnally fore-

Technical Data
seen. The quantities indicated are applicable per carriage.

Initial greasing
grease qty
per carriage in g MR 25 MR 35 MR 45 MR 55 MR 65

MRA/MRC 1.8 2.8 5.0 8.0 –

MRB/MRD 2.1 3.5 6.3 10.1 18.0

Initial greasing
grease qty
per carriage in g BM 15 BM 20 BM 25 BM 30 BM 35 BM 45

BMA/BMC 0.8 1.6 2.7 4.3 6.3 12.0

BMB/BMD – 2.0 3.3 5.2 7.7 14.8

Subsequent lubrication intervals and quantities

The subsequent lubrication intervals depend on the load on the carriages and on external
factors. As an indicative value, with a speed of v  1 m/sec and a load ratio C/P  2, the
following interval for subsequent lubrication can be assumed:

Subsequent lubrication interval = C/P  100 km

The quantity of grease to be provided in accordance with this interval can be taken from
the following table.

Subsequent lubrication
grease qty
per carriage in g MR 25 MR 35 MR 45 MR 55 MR 65

MRA/MRC 0.4 1.0 2.0 3.0 –

MRB/MRD 0.5 1.2 2.3 3.8 7.0

Subsequent lubrication
grease qty
per carriage in g BM 15 BM 20 BM 25 BM 30 BM 35 BM 45

BMA/BMC 0.3 0.6 1.0 1.6 2.4 4.7

BMB/BMD – 0.8 1.3 2.0 3.0 5.8

Remarks The values indicated above are only guideline values. An accurate determination of the
quantities and intervals can only be determined under real operating conditions.
It is recommended to lubricate at least every 3 months.
In the case of unfavorable conditions, loads, climate, ambient conditions, a more frequent
lubrication is necessary.

• 25
 NEW The lubrication plate is utilized in such applications, where long lubrication intervals are
Lubrication plate SPL demanded. It enables an automatic and uniform supplying of the roller elements with
lubricating oil over a long period of time. In order to achieve maximum travelling distances
without any re-lubrication, the lubrication plates are always installed in pairs – i. e., one
lubrication plate per carriage end and respectively installed in front of the front plates.

Installation positions The SPL guarantees an assured supply of lubricant in all installation positions.

Delivered condition General

The SPL is on principle delivered ready for installation, i.e., filled with oil. The lubrication
connections for re-lubrication at the front in the centre (-SM) as well as on the narrow sides
(-SS) are respectively closed off with a threaded pin, respectively a screw.

Delivery installed on the carriage

In the case of delivery together with a MONORAIL system or individual carriages, respec-
tively two lubrication plates are installed on the carriage at the works. The carriages are in
addition filled with a roller bearing grease (lithium based saponified grease on a mineral oil
basis). A lubricating nipple for refilling the SPL is supplied loose.

Delivery as accessory / Individual component

In case of delivery of the SPL for retro-fitting, these are supplied in pairs ready for instal-
lation, i. e., filled with oil. A lubricating nipple for replenishing as well as the corresponding
fixing screws DIN 7984 are enclosed in a separate plastic bag.

First oil fill The SPL ex works SCHNEEBERGER Höfen / Enz is filled with oil type KLÜBER Lamora
D 220 and therefore immediately ready for use.

First oil fill

qty per lubrication plate in cm3 MR 25 MR 35 MR 45 MR 55 MR 65

3.1 8.4 15.6 26.8 61.0

Refilling interval The refilling of the lubrication plates should take place in dependence of the load as well
and quantity as of the other application conditions of the guideways. As a guideline value, the following
refilling intervals can be assumed:

Refilling interval

MR 25 MR 35 MR 45 MR 55 MR 65
2500 km 5000 km

Remarks The values indicated above are only guideline values. An accurate determination of the
time intervals can only be established under actual operating conditions. In case of un-
favourable conditions, loads, climate, environment, a more frequent refilling is necessary.
Independent of the distance travelled, a refilling is necessary after a maximum of
12 months of operation.

For the refilling of the lubrication plates, oil type KLÜBER Lamora D 220 has to be uti-
lized. In case of refilling with other lubricants, the SCHNEEBERGER will assume no liabil-
ity whatsoever.

• 26
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

The oil quantity for the above indicated refilling intervals can be taken from the following
table.

Technical Data
Refilling
qty per lubrication plate in cm3 MR 25 MR 35 MR 45 MR 55 MR 65

2.2 6.0 11.0 19.0 43.0

The SPL is refilled through one of the three lubricating bores described above at the front
in the middle or on the side. A lubricating nipple, which is supplied as an accessory, serves
for filling the oil.

General remarks ● When lubrication plates are retro-fitted, on principle the carriages in addition have to be
filled with grease. For the recommended lubricant quantities, please refer to the sec-


tion on lubrication with grease
● In case of applications, in which coolant can come into contact with the MONORAIL
guideways, additional wipers ZCN/ZCV have to be installed in front of every lubrication
plate, refer to installation instructions SPL.

Service lifetime lubrication The lubricant forms a protective film between the roller element and the track and pre-
vents metallic contact. Therefore the lubrication protects against wear and corrosion.

Grease lubrication, frequently also referred to as service lifetime lubrication, is considered

as a form of minimum quantity lubrication.

During the operation of MONORAIL guideways loss of lubricant takes place. In addition,
the grease ages because of the diffusion of oil out of the carrier substance. These
circumstances call for subsequent lubrication. The subsequent lubrication quantities and
intervals have to be determined under operating conditions.

Depending on the application, i. e., corresponding to the loading ratio C/P, the stroke of
the carriage and ambient influences, the useful service lifetime of the grease can amount
to between some hundreds of hours and several years.

 SCHNEEBERGER cannot guarantee, that with a single lubrication, the cal-

culated service lifetime of the MONORAIL guideways will be achieved!

Without any subsequent lubrication, the service lifetime of the MONORAIL guideway will
depend on the useful service lifetime of the grease!

• 27
 Accessories

Greasing nipple Hydraulic-type lubricating nipple, straight according to

DIN 71412

l2

l1
Type d l1 l2 SW

SN 6 M6 16 10.5 7 SW

Application:
d
● BM 20–45
● MR 25–65

Hydraulic-type lubricating nipple, 45 deg according to

DIN 71412 b

Type d l1 l2 b SW

SN 6-45 M6 21 15.5 15 9

l2

l1
Application:
● BM 20–45
● MR 25–65 SW

Hydraulic-type lubricating nipple, 90 deg according to

DIN 71412 b

Type d l1 l2 b SW

SN 6-90 M6 18 12.5 19 9
l2

l1

Application:
● BM 20–45
● MR 25–65 SW

All dimensions in mm

• 28
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Lubrication adapter M 3

Technical Data
Type d l1 l2 SW

l2
SN 3 M3 10 5 4

l1
Application:
● BM 15 SW
● BM 20 only laterally
d

Lubrication adapter Straight screw-in connection M 3

D
For tubing with ext. diameter  D = 3 mm

Type d g l1 l2

SA 3-D 3 M3 6 12 9.5 g

l2

l1
Application:
● BM 15
● BM 20 only laterally
d

Adapter with hexagon insert bit d1

For tubing with ext. diameter  = 4 mm
l2

l1

Type d1 d2 l1 l2 SW

SA 6-6KT-G1/8 G1/8* M6 20 14 12
SA 6-6KT-M 8 M 8 1** M6 20 14 11 d2

Application:
● BM 30–45
● MR 35–65
SW

* G1/8 = 1/8’’ BSP thread (not 1/8’’ NPT)

**Counterbore in accordance with DIN 2367 for screwed pipe connections without solder-
ing
• 29
 Adapter, external round
d1
For tubing with ext. diameter  = 4 mm

l2

l1
Type d1 d2 l1 l2 D

SA 6-RD-M 8 M 8 1* M6 20 14 10
d2
Application:
● BM 20–45
● MR 25–65

D
Banjo fittings
D
For tubing with ext. diameter  =
SV 6-M 6 2.5 mm d1
SV 6-M 8 4 mm SW

d2
h
Type d1 d2 l1 l2 h D SW

SV 6-M 6 M 6 0.75* M6 22 16 18 10 9
SV 6-M 8 M 8 1* M6 22 15.5 22 10 9
l2
Application:
● BM 20–45 l1
● MR 25–65

3.7 General data

Permissible speeds General applications under normal operating conditions:

and accelerations

MR BM

Speeds up to 3 m/s 5 m/s

Acceleration up to 50 m/s2 100 m/s2

Higher values are permissible. These depend on the carriage type, lubrication, installation
orientation, preload and loading. The approval of a SCHNEEBERGER representative
should be obtained in such cases.

Permissible operating MONORAIL guideways can be used at operating temperatures between –40 °C and +80 °C.
temperatures Short-term temperatures up to +120 °C are permissible. Does not apply to bellows.

Materials SCHNEEBERGER rails, carriages and rolling elements are made from hardened and
ground bearing steel as standard. The rails are induction-hardened and the carriages are
through-hardened. Plastic components are injection-molded using POM, PAPA and TPU.

* Counterbore in accordance with DIN 2367 for screwed pipe connections without solder-
ing

• 30
 Roller-MONORAIL MR
4 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

4.1 Product features

Roller-MONORAIL MR
High rigidity, great dynamic and static load carrying capacity, outstanding running
smoothness and the total enclosure of the carriage are the main features of the MONORAIL
guideway. These properties result in higher machining rates while enhancing geometrical
accuracy and surface quality of the machined workpieces. Our highly rigid MONORAIL
provides improved vibration behavior, smaller vibration amplitudes and thus extends tool
life.
SCHNEEBERGER has systematically applied its many years of experience in the design,
production and use of roller-type anti-friction guideways in the development of the
MONORAIL. Consequently the MONORAIL is a cost-effective anti-friction guideway which
meets the challenge presented by modern machine design.

• 31
 Rigidity Linear guideways have a significant effect
on the overall rigidity of a machine tool. The
proven high rigidity of the MONORAIL is
achieved by using rollers as rolling elements

Elastic Deformation
and by the optimization of the cross section
of the carriage and the rail.

MR

Load

Load carrying capacity In contrast to the circular-arch ball guide-

way, the roller guideway has a flat and
noticeably larger contact area. This results
in a substantially higher load carrying capac-
ity and lower wear together with minimum
rolling friction.

O-Geometry The chosen O-arrangement of the rollers

causes the force vectors to intersect out-
side, far from the rail center, allowing heavy
loading by moments and forces acting in all
directions.

• 32
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Running smoothness The running smoothness of the MONORAIL

is the result of the optimized geometry of Travel pulsation
the roller tracks. measured on the MRD 45
Minimized guideway travel pulsation and a

Roller-MONORAIL MR
uniform translation force are extremely
important in demanding machining appli-
cations. 1µ

Translation force
measured on the MRD 45

10 N

Wipers Integral wipers that totally enclose the

MONORAIL carriage protect the rollers and
track surfaces from contamination. The
double-lipped wipers minimize lubricant
loss. Lubrication can be systematically fed
into the roller recirculation zones regardless
of installation orientation.

Versatile lubrication The carriages can be lubricated through

possibilities various lubrication connections (from the
front, either side or above). The geometry
of the lubrication channels, combined with
efficient sealing, reduces lubricant con-
sumption. This provides both economic and
environmental benefits.

• 33
4.2 Dimension tables, loading
capacities MONORAIL MR
B
N
Carriage types MRA and MRB f3
Locating side f3
e e
f f

m1

g1
o

g
P
J

A
J1
45°

g2
f1
f2
Locating side B2 B1 Marked side

MRA L5
L4
MRB
L3

L6
L1
L2

L
L1
L6
L2

L
L10

Drawings in dxf or dwg format are

available on www.schneeberger.com
in section Services.

Type Dimensions (mm)

A B B1* B2 J J1 L** L1 L2 L4 L5 / L6 N e f f1 f2 f3
0.05 L10

MRA 25 81 60
36 70 23 23.5 29.5 24.5 45 40 30 14 57 M8 6.8 7 11 11
MRB 25 103.4 79.4
MRA 35 109 80
48 100 34 33 40 32 62 52 40 19 82 M10 8.5 9 15 15
MRB 35 136 103
MRA 45 137.5 104
60 120 45 37.5 50 40 80 60 52.5 25 100 M12 10.5 14 20 18
MRB 45 172.5 135
MRA 55 163.5 120
70 140 53 43.5 57 48 95 70 60 29 116 M14 12.5 16 24 20
MRB 55 205.5 162
MRB 65 90 170 63 53.5 76 58 251 110 82 75 36.5 201 142 M16 14.5 18 26 23

* Lower tolerances on request

** When using additional wipers, metal wipers and lubrication plates, the total length L is
increasing, see chapter 4.5.

• 34
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

MQ / M0Q

Roller-MONORAIL MR
Roll ML / M0L

C0
C
Pitch

C / C0 C / C0
ML / M0L

Yaw

Loading capacities Moments Weights

Roller g g1 g2 m1 o P C0 C M0Q M0L MQ ML Carriage Rail
 (N) (N) (Nm) (Nm) (Nm) (Nm) (kg) (kg/m)

49 800 27 700 733 476 408 265 0.7

3.2 9 6.5 13 5.5 7.5 17.5 3.4
70 300 39 100 1 035 936 576 521 1.0
93 400 52 000 2 008 1 189 1 118 662 1.6
4.5 12 10 15 7 8 23 6.8
128 500 71 500 2 762 2 214 1 537 1 232 2.1
167 500 93 400 4 621 2 790 2 577 1 556 3.1
5 15 11 21 8 10 30.5 10.7
229 500 127 800 6 333 5 161 3 527 2 874 4.1
237 000 131 900 7 771 4 738 4 325 2 637 5.2
6 18 13.5 26 9 12 34.5 15.2
324 000 180 500 10 624 8 745 5 919 4 872 7.0
7 23 19 32 13 15 51 530 000 295 000 20 912 17 930 11 640 9 980 13.2 22.2

C0 = Static loading capacity

C = Dynamic loading capacity (100 km)
M0 = Static moment capacity
M = Dynamic moment capacity (100 km)

• 35
4.3 Dimension tables, loading
capacities MONORAIL MR
B
Locating side N
Carriage types MRC and MRD
e

m1
o

g
J

A
J1
g2
f1
f2
Locating side B2 B1 Marked side

MRC L5
L4 MRD

L1
L7

L
L3
L7

L1
L
L10

Drawings in dxf or dwg format are

available on www.schneeberger.com
in section Services.

Type Dimensions (mm)

A B B1* B2 J J1 L** L1 L4 L5 / L7 N e f1 f2
0.05 L10

MRC 25 81 35 57
40 48 23 12.5 33.5 24.5 30 14 35 M6 7 11
MRD 25 103.4 50 79.4
MRC 35 109 50 76
55 70 34 18 47 32 40 19 50 M8 9 15
MRD 35 136 72 103
MRC 45 137.5 60 100
70 86 45 20.5 60 40 52.5 25 60 M10 14 20
MRD 45 172.5 80 135
MRC 55 163.5 75 120
80 100 53 23.5 67 48 60 29 75 M12 16 24
MRD 55 205.5 95 162
MRD 65 90 126 63 31.5 76 58 251 120 75 36.5 201 76 M16 18 26

* Lower tolerances on request

** When using additional wipers, metal wipers and lubrication plates, the total length L is
increasing, see chapter 4.5.

• 36
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

MQ / M0Q

Roller-MONORAIL MR
Roll ML / M0L

C0
C
Pitch

C / C0 C / C0
ML / M0L

Yaw

Loading capacities Moments Weights

Roller  g g2 m1 o C0 C M0Q M0L MQ ML Carriage Rail
(N) (N) (Nm) (Nm) (Nm) (Nm) (kg) (kg/m)

49 800 27 700 733 476 408 265 0.6

3.2 9 13 9.5 7.5 3.4
70 300 39 100 1 035 936 576 521 0.85
93 400 52 000 2 008 1 189 1 118 662 1.35
4.5 12 15 14 8 6.8
128 500 71 500 2 762 2 214 1 537 1 232 1.9
167 500 93 400 4 621 2 790 2 577 1 556 3.0
5 18 21 18 10 10.7
229 500 127 800 6 333 5 161 3 527 2 874 4.1
237 000 131 900 7 771 4 738 4 325 2 637 4.5
6 19 26 19 12 15.2
324 000 180 500 10 624 8 745 5 919 4 872 6.1
7 20 32 13 15 530 000 295 000 20 912 17 930 11 640 9 980 10.3 22.2

C0 = Static loading capacity

C = Dynamic loading capacity (100 km)
M0 = Static moment capacity
M = Dynamic moment capacity (100 km)

• 37
4.4 Rigidity The diagrams correspond to preload class V 3

MRA 25, 35, 45, 55

MRC 25, 35, 45, 55 60 55
45
50
Deformation  (µm)

35
40

25
30

20

F 10

Compressive load 0
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140
Load F (kN)

110
55
100
45
90
Deformation  (µm)

80
35
70
60
25
50
40
30
20
F 10
Tensile load 0
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140
Load F (kN)

90 55
80
45
70
Deformation  (µm)

35
60
50
25
40
30
20
10
Lateral load F 0
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140
Load F (kN)

• 38
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

MRB 25, 35, 45, 55, 65

MRD 25, 35, 45, 55, 65 70
65
55
60

Roller-MONORAIL MR
45
Deformation  (µm)

50
35
40
25
30

20
F
10

Compressive load 0
40 80 120 160 200 240 280 320
Load F (kN)

140
65
120
55
Deformation  (µm)

100
45

80
35

60 25

40

20
F
Tensile load 0
40 80 120 160 200 240 280 320
Load F (kN)

120
65

100
55
Deformation  (µm)

45
80
35
60
25
40

20

Lateral load F 0
40 80 120 160 200 240 280 320
Load F (kN)

• 39
4.5 Accessories – must be ordered
separately

Rail cover strip MAB With the rail cover strip made of stainless
spring steel a smooth rail surface is achieved,
which enables the wipers to function opti-
mally. The rail cover strip can be utilized in
several pieces, i. e., without any limitation to
the length of the rail and it is easy to install.
As a result of the self-centering shape and
the V-shaped ends, a lifting-off or shifting
of the strip in any installation position is
impossible. The maximum length of one
piece amounts to 3 m.

NEW The new SCHNEEBERGER rail cover strip

Rail cover strip MAC MAC combines technical functionality with
Pre-information easy handling and a corresponding aesthet-
ic appearance. It provides the following ad-
vantages:
● Reliable functioning in all installation ori-
entations due to a secure anchoring in a
special groove.
● Utilization of the rail surface as reference
surface through the edge zones remain-
ing free.
● Protection of the wipers during the in-
stallation process by means of the rail
bores being relocated inside the groove.
● Maximum one-piece cover strip length
6 m, applications using several pieces of
cover strips can be implemented without
any problem.
Your SCHNEEBERGER representative will
inform you about the availability of this prod-
uct.

Plastic plug MRK Instead of the rail cover strip, plastic plugs
can be used to close the rail attachment
holes.

• 40
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Brass plug MRS Brass plugs are applicable for enhanced re-
quirements regarding surface quality.

Roller-MONORAIL MR
Two-piece steel plug MRZ The two-piece steel plug, made of stainless
steel, is ideal for applications where plastic
or brass plugs are inadequate, i. e. in open
chip areas. This plug guarantees leakproof
sealing of the screw head space.

MRZ function: The seal ring (B) loosely fits

into the counterbore. The tapered plug (A)
expands the ring when inserted. The plug in
its mounted position is flush with the rail and
provides a smooth running surface for op-
timum wiper function and life. A
B
Mounting tools are available. See ordering
information in chapter 4.6.

• 41
 NEW The ZCN and ZCV wipers provide effective
Additional wipers ZCN, ZCV additional protection of the guideways in
replace ZAN / ZAV available from heavily contaminated environments.
autumn 2000 The new generation of additional wipers can
be mounted directly over the rail cross sec-
tion due to their flexibility. Two versions are
available:
● ZCN made of NBR (Nitrile)
● ZCV made of Viton® (Fluoro-elastomer)
for applications with aggressive coolants
These wipers ZCN /ZCV can also be used
in combination with the metal wiper ASM. Thickness:
7 mm
Height screw head:
max. 4 mm

Metal wiper ASM The metal wipers ASM serve for the pro-
tection of the sealing lips of carriages and
additional wipers against hot metal chips.
Large and loose dirt particles are pushed
away and because of the large radial gap to
the rail cannot get jammed. Metal wipers
must not be utilized on rails with the meas-
uring system AMS.
The metal wipers are ideally utilized in com-
bination with additional wipers ZCN/ZCV.

Thickness:
1.5 mm
Height screw head
max 4 mm

Bellows FBM A standard bellows is available for all MONORAIL sizes. The bellows covers the entire
length of the rail. The cross section is matched to the particular carriage size. The outside
dimensions of the carriages are not exceeded by the bellows. The bellows is mainly used
to provide additional protection against dust and splashed water. Installation is simple and
requires little time. Retrofitting is only possible with induction heat treated rails since the
rail ends have to be drilled for the attachment of the end plate EPL. The bellows is made
of a synthetic fabric coated on both sides with polyurethane.

The ZPL adapter plate is required to attach the bellows to the carriage. The adapter plate
is screwed to the front plate of the carriage. The EPL end plate can be screwed to the end
face of the rail. The bellows is fastened with two rivets each to the adapter plate and front
plate.
The required adapter and end plates, the attaching screws and rivets are supplied with
the order of a complete bellow.

• 42
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Bellows length calculation Lb = L + 2  P

Roller-MONORAIL MR
E Zd Az

Lmin H Lb

Lmax

L3

Lb = 2  (L + 2  P) + Lw

Lb

P L P Lw P L P

Lmin = n • Zd + 10 Lmax = H + Lmin

H Round up to whole number

n =
Az – Zd

Az : Extension per fold Lmax : Extended length of bellows

E : End plate thickness Lmin : Closed length of bellows
H : Travel distance Lw : Clearance between two carriages
L : Carriage length (chapter 4.2 or 4.3) n : Number of folds per bellows
Lb : Total length with adapter plates P : Adapter plate thickness
L3 : Rail length Zd : Closed distance per fold

Size FBM 25 FBM 35 FBM 45 FBM 55 FBM 65

Dimensions in mm

AZ 13 20 22 28 35
Zd 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5
E 8 8 8 8 8
P 12 12 12 12 12

Rail length calculation

L3 = Lmin + Lmax + Lb

• 43
 Adapter plate ZPL The adapter plate is used for attaching the bellows to the carriage. The adapter plate is
made of black-anodized aluminum. A special fastening screw is supplied with the adapter
plate.

ZPL 35–65

10 b

The adapter plate size 25 is used for attaching the bellows and also for the connection of
a lateral lubrication.

ZPL 25 Close the unused connection

with an M66 DIN 913 45H
Tuflock coated set screw.
12

M6

Size ZPL 25 ZPL 35 ZPL 45 ZPL 55 ZPL 65

Dimension in mm

a 29 39.5 49.5 56.5 75.5

b 47 68 84 98 123

• 44
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

End plate EPL The end plate is used to attach the bellows to the end of the rail. The attaching holes can
be drilled in the rail if the bellows is to be retrofitted.
The end plate is made of black-anodized aluminum and must be ordered separately if
required. Both attaching screws are supplied with the end plate.

Roller-MONORAIL MR
The external dimensions of the endplate correspond to the front plate, the bellows and
the adapter plate.

H1
H2
8 t S

Size EPL 25 EPL 35 EPL 45 EPL 55 EPL 65

Dimension in mm

a 30 40 50 57 76
b 47 68 84 98 123
H1 10 12 15 20 22
H2 10.5 14 17 20 25
Sxt M45 M45 M68.5 M68.5 M68.5

NEW The new lubrication plate SPL thanks to its

Lubrication plate SPL integrated oil reservoir makes possible an
automatic and uniform supply of lubricating
oil to the roller elements over a long period
of time. As a result, the investment – and
operating costs can be significantly re-
duced. The advantages are:
● Assured supply of lubricant in any instal-
lation position
● Long lubrication intervals of up to 5000 km,
resp. 12 months
● Can be refilled, in this context refer to
chapter 3.6 Lubrication
● Cost saving due to the elimination of a
central lubrication system
● Low burden on the environment because
of the minimal consumption of lubricant
For maximum travelling distances without
re-lubrication, the lubrication plates are al-
ways utilized in pairs. The lubrication plates
have the same dimensions as the front
plates of the carriages and are installed in come into contact with the guideways, ad-
front of these. Retro-fitting is possible. In ditional wipers ZCN / ZCV have to be fore-
case of applications, where coolant can seen.

• 45
 Assembly rail MRM The assembly rail is required when the car-
riage must be removed from the rail and then
reinstalled (chapter 9) during the installation
of the MONORAIL. It is advisable to leave
the assembly rail in the carriage to protect
the rollers against contamination.
If necessary, the two internal screws for
fastening the carriage can be tightened
through the two holes in the assembly rail.
The assembly rail is made of plastic and
available in two lengths, for standard car-
riages and for carriages with lubrication
plates.

Front plate STP – spare part The red front plates at the end sides of the
MONORAIL carriages have two essential
functions:
● Supply of lubricant and
● sealing the MONORAIL carriages.
Through several integrated lubrication
connections, refer to chapter 4.6 Ordering
Information, with the help of a lubricating
nipple or by connection to a lubricating line
lubricant can be supplied to the carriages,
refer to chapter 3.6 Lubrication. Lubricating
channels inside the front plate distribute the
lubricant and guide it to the roller bodies.
The integrated double-lip cross wipers seal
the carriage at the ends and with this
prevent the ingress of dirt and the loss of
lubricant. Because the cross wipers are
subject to wear, the front plates have to be placed, also refer to chapter 10, Precaution-
examined regularly and if necessary re- ary Measures.

NEW SCHNEEBERGER for the most diverse

Brakes and clamps application cases offers clamping – and
braking elements for the roller guideway
MONORAIL MR. The various alternatives
can be utilized for applications like the
securing of a position of linear axes, the
clamping of machine tables and right to the
application of a controllable counter-force
in case of chip-removing processes.
Available are manual, pneumatic- and hy-
draulic-actuated products.
Versions opening when pressure is applied
are optimally suitable for securing vertical
axes or linear motor axes in case of an
electric power failure.
For more detailed information, please
contact your SCHNEEBERGER represen-
• 46 tative.
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

4.6 Ordering information MR When custom MONORAIL MR versions are required, additional information is needed to ensure
the correct execution of the order. This has to be marked on the supplementary order sheet:
● Type, accuracy class, preload in the event of different carriage types on a rail
● Additional wipers
● Locating sides of carriages and rails

Roller-MONORAIL MR
● Position of lubrication connections or additionnal lubrication plates
● Installation orientation and type of lubrication
For orders with more than two rails, butt joint rails or rails with more than two carriages per rail
a separate drawing is required, on which as well the lengths of all sections of multi-section rails
and rail cover strips are indicated.

Guideway MONORAIL MR
__ MR 35 –C2 –0948 –A –U –D –39 –29 –X –G1 –V3 –GP –SO –A –HH
Quantity
Guideway type MR
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65
Carriage type A, B, C, D When different carriages
Carriage qty 1, 2, … per rail e. g. –A2 –B1
Rail length L3 (in mm). State the total length for multi-
section rails ground together.
AMS-measuring system* A Rail with integrated scale**
Rail version* U Rails with tapped attachment holes at the bottom**
B Rail for cover strip MAB
Enhanced straightness* D Rail through hardened
Starting hole pitch L5 (in mm)
End hole pitch L10 (in mm)
Rail hole pitch X doubled hole pitch (as BM)
L4 special* Y L4 not standard or not uniform (drawing required)
Accuracy class G 0, G 1, G 2, G 3
Preload class V 1, V 2, V 3
Matched* GP
Lubrication connection not standard* SO above
Position has to be indicated on supplementary sheet SS lateral (not size 25)
SV front laterally (not size 25)
ST special, 2 connections per carriage (not size 25)
Carriages with parallel locating sides* A carriage width BA = (B–0.2)  0.05 mm

Hard-chroming* H only rails hard-chromed

HH rails and carriages hard-chromed

* Optional specifications
**For the measuring system AMS size 25, the specification rail execution U is compulsory

• 47
Accessories MONORAIL MR – to be ordered separately

Rail cover strip

__ MAB 35 –0948
Quantity
Type MAB (Steel cover strip)
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65
Rail length L3

Plugs
__ MRK 35
Quantity
Type MRK (plastic)
MRS (brass)
MRZ (steel, two piece)
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65

Mounting tool for two piece steel plug MRZ

__ MWH 35
Quantity
Type MWH Sliding block with insertion tool
MZH Hydraulic cylinder (for all sizes)
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65 (no specification for MZH)

Additional wipers
__ ZCN 35
Quantity
Type ZCN (NBR)
ZCV (Viton)
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65

Metal wipers
__ ASM 35
Quantity
Type ASM not allowed with AMS rail
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65

• 48
Bellows
__ FBM 35 –24 –EZ
Quantity
Type FBM
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65
Number of folds
Version without specification bellow only, without attachment plates
EZ with 1 endplate (EPL) and 1 adapter plate (ZPL) – For mounting to rail ends
ZZ with 2 adapter plates – For mounting between two carriages

Attachment plates for bellow

__ ZPL 35

Roller-MONORAIL MR
Quantity
Type ZPL Adapter plate Included at order of
EPL End plate a complete bellow
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65

Lubrication plate
__ SPL 35 –MR
Quantity only pair orders
Type SPL
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65
Version MR Roller guideway MONORAIL MR / MZ

Assembly rail
__ MRM 35 –SPL
Quantity
Type MRM
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65
Version no indication Standard version
SPL Long version for carriages with lubrication plate SPL

Front plate (Spare part)

__ STP 35 –SO
Quantity
Type STP
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65
Lubrication no indication Standard, M6 center front
connection G 1/8 G 1/8 center front (not size 25, 35)
SO-AB from above, carriage type MRA / MRB
SO-CD from above, carriage type MRC / MRD
SS* lateral (not size 25)
SV* front lateral (not size 25)
ST* special, 2 connections per carriage (not size 25)

* Order with indication of lubrication connection positions required.

• 49
Supplementary sheet for MR 25–65/Arrangement of carriages and accessories

Customer, Address

Machine, axis Drawing No. Customer

SCHNEEBERGER rep. Drawing No. SCHNEEBERGER

Ordering information MONORAIL 1

Ordering information MONORAIL 2

MONORAIL 1 Type, Size Type, Size

Wiper ASM
ZCN
ZCV
Marked side
Lubrication SS
Carriage
SV locating side
FBM FBM FBM

L5 L4 L10
Lubrication
Carriage
front laterally SV locating side
laterally SS
Rail locating
above SO side
front center SM

MONORAIL 2 Type, Size Type, Size

ASM
ZCN
ZCV
Marked side
SS
Carriage
SV locating side
FBM FBM FBM

L5 L4 L10

Carriage
SV locating side
SS
Rail locating
SO side
SM

Mounting position Lubrication Attach Rail

Accessories covering
standard (horizontal/vertical) Lubrication plate from above MRK MRZ
special: turned ° on longitudinal Lubricating nipples from bottom MRS MAB
axis of the rail (Two connections per carriage mounted (-U-)
are recommended with oil, sizes 35–65)

• 50
 Roller-MONORAIL MZ
5 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Roller-MONORAIL MZ
5.1 Product features In the handling and automation industry increasing use is being made of linear guiding sys-
tems with additional features. The ever increasing cost pressure and quality demands on
handling and automation systems in industrial applications are satisfied by SCHNEEBERGER
MONORAIL MZ. The MZ, with integrated rack, offers the following decisive advantages:

● Extremely simple dimensioning and design of the connecting structure.

● Logical mounting of the guiderail and carriage systems.
● Optimal load-carrying capacity and service life based on the well-known MONORAIL
machine guideway.
● Minimum servicing and maintenance as the design of the MONORAIL is conceived for
industrial usage.
● Life and speed uncompromisingly match the user’s requirements.

• 51
5.2 Dimension table, loading capacities MONORAIL MZ with carriage type MRE

Standard version ● MONORAIL carriage and track of the rail are hardened
● MONORAIL rails can be mounted continously
● Rack Teeth cut straight (as per DIN 867)
Pressure angle 20°
Milled to quality 8, unhardened
Maximum accumulated pitch error for single unit rails:  0.06 mm per 1000 mm
● The running accuracy  of the carriages on the rail corresponds to accuracy class G3
● The preload class of the carriages corresponds to V1

Version MO ● Rail cross section same as MZ but without rack

On request ● Besides carriage type MRE, carriage types MRA, MRB, MRC and MRD
can also be used
● Helical rack (single piece rails only)
● Special tooth pitch
● Rails of special length, maximum single piece rail length L3 = 2400 mm

MZ L
MRE B
L7 g
L1 L1

N1
m1

O
J
A
J1

f1
J3

f2
ha0.15 ***

J2

L10 L5 g3
L4 Marked side
B1
L3 B3

Type Dimensions (mm)

Linear A B B1* B2 B3 J J1 J2 J3 L** L1 L3 L4 L5 / L7
pitch 0.05 L10

MZ/MRE 25 7.5 60 57 23 – 40 33.5 44.5 11.5 26.5 81 17.5 1500 60 30 57

MR-X/MRC 25 – 40 48 23 12.5 – 33.5 24.5 – – 81 35 1500 60 30 57
MZ/MRE 35 10.0 85 76 34 – 55 47 62 17 38 109 25 1520 80 40 76
MR-X/MRC 35 – 55 70 34 18 – 47 32 – – 109 50 1520 80 40 76

* Lower tolerances on request

** When using additional wipers, metal wipers and lubrication plates, the total length L is increasing, see chapter 4.5.
^ Module m, see chapter 5.4.
*** Dimension ha =

• 52
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

5.3 Dimension table, loading capacities MONORAIL MR-X with carriage type MRC

Standard version ● MONORAIL-rail with double hole spacing L4

● The running accuracy  of the carriages on the rail corresponds to accuracy class G3
● The preload class of the carriages corresponds to V1

On request ● Also carriage types MRA, MRB, MRD and MRE can be used

Roller-MONORAIL MZ
MR-X L3
MRC J
m1 Locating side
L7 Locating side
o
B2

f1
f2
B1

B
N
e

L10 L4 L5
g2 g
L1 Marked side J1
L A

Loading Max. rack Weights

N N1 e f1 f2 g g2 g3 m1 o Roller capacities* C load Carriage Rail
 Co (N) (N) (N) (kg) (kg / m)

– 7.5 M6 7 11 10 – 7 9.5 15 3.2 24 900 13 850 1800 0.75 7.0

35 – M6 7 11 9 13 – 9.5 7.5 3.2 24 900 13 850 1800 0.6 3.4
– 11 M8 9 15 12 – 9 14 22 4.5 46 700 26 000 2500 1.6 14.8
50 – M8 9 15 12 15 – 14 8 4.5 46 700 26 000 2500 1.35 6.8

*Loading capacities reduced according to hole pitch C = dynamic loading capacity (100 km)
Co = static loading capacity

• 53
5.4 Accessories For MONORAIL MZ the following accessories are available, see also chapter 4.5:

● Additional wipers ZCN/ZCV

● Metal wiper ASM
● Lubrication plate SPL
● Mounting rail MRM

Standard accessories For the parallel rail MR-X the same accessories are available as for the standard
MONORAIL MR.

Standard pinion MZR ● Toothing hardened and ground

● Quality 6 f 24 according to DIN 3962/3963/3967
● Straight bore for customized fitting to the motor shaft

l2

ha0.15
l1

J2
a
D
d

d2
d1

^ Module m
ha =

Reference Module No of Teeth Pitch Dimensions (mm) Weight

circle  d m z p a D d1 d2 l1 l2 in kg

MZR 25 47.75 2.3873 20 7.5 33.0 52.52 40 15 h 7 19.5 30 0.34

MZR 35 63.66 3.1831 20 10 45.7 70.02 50 15 h 7 29.5 43 0.88

all dimensions in mm p
Module m =  Reference circle  d = m • z

Attention:


● For systems with multi-section rails, a pinion with spring pre-load must be used due to
the  0.15 mm tolerance of the dimension ha.
● When mounting multi-section rails, the rail joints have to be adjusted according to sec-
tion 9.6 of this catalog (Handling the rails).

• 54
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

5.5 Ordering information MZ When custom MONORAIL MZ versions are required, additional information is needed to
ensure the correct execution of the order. This has to be marked on the supplementary
order sheet:
● Type, accuracy class, preload in the event of different carriage types on a rail
● Additional wipers
● Locating sides of carriages and rail
● Position of lubrication connections or additional lubrication plates
● Installation orientation and type of lubrication
In the case of more than 2 rails, butt joint rails or in the case of more than two carriages

Roller-MONORAIL MZ
per rail, a separate drawing is required, on which as well the lengths of all sections of multi-
section rails are indicated.

Guideway MONORAIL MZ
__ MZ 35 –E2 –0950 –30 –20 –Y –G3 –V1 –SO –A
Quantity
Guideway type MZ with rack
MO without rack
Size 25, 35
Carriage type E (A, B, C, D) When different carriages
Carriage quantity 1, 2, … per rail e. g. –A2 –B1
Rail length L3 (in mm). State the total length for multi-
section rails ground together.
Starting hole pitch L5 (in mm)
End hole pitch L10 (in mm)
Hole pitch L4 X Half hole pitch (as MR)
special* Y L4 not standard or not uniform (drawing required)
Accuracy class G3
Preload class V1
Lubrication connection not standard* SO above
Position has to be indicated on SS lateral (not size 25)
supplementary sheet SV front laterally (not size 25)
ST special, 2 connections per carriage (not size 25)
Carriages with parallel locating sides* A carriage width BA = (B–0.2)  0.05 mm

Order information for parallel guideway see chapter 4.6 MONORAIL MR

*Optional specifications

• 55
Supplementary sheet for MZ/MO 25–35/Arrangement of carriages and accessories

Customer, Address

Machine, axis Drawing No. Customer

SCHNEEBERGER-rep. Drawing No. SCHNEEBERGER

Ordering information MONORAIL MZ/MO

Ordering information MONORAIL MR-X

MONORAIL MZ/MO Type, Size Type, Size

Wiper ASM
ZCN
ZCV
Lubrication SS Marked side
SV Carriage
locating side

L5 L4 L10
Lubrication Carriage
front laterally SV locating side
laterally SS Rail locating side
above SO
front center SM

MONORAIL MR-X Type, Size Type, Size

Wiper ASM
ZCN
ZCV
Lubrication SS Marked side
SV Carriage
FBM FBM FBM locating side

L5 L4 L10
Carriage
locating side
SV
Rail locating side
SS
SO
SM

Mounting position Lubrication Attach Rail covering

Accessories MR-X MR-X
standard (horizontal/vertical) Lubrication plate SPL from above MRK MRZ
special: turned ° on longitudinal axis of the rail Lubrication nipple from bottom (-U-) MRS MAB
(Two connections per carriage are recommended mounted
with oil, size 35)

• 56
 MONORAIL AMS
6 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

MONORAIL AMS
6.1 Product features SCHNEEBERGER develops and produces integrated distance measuring systems for
MONORAIL roller guideways.
The technical level achieved sets standards with respect to economy, accuracy and
reliability.
The AMS (Advanced Measuring System) represents the current technical state of the art
and is primarily utilized in machine tools.
For various interfaces, powerful signal forming electronic systems are available from
SCHNEEBERGER.

• 57
 Reliable scanning technique The measuring system is based on a mag-
netoresisitve sensor which scans the mag-
netic grating «t» of the scale. A relative mo-
tion between the scale and the sensor in t
the measuring direction causes periodic U1
U2
changes of resistance in response to
changes in the magnetic flux vector. In or-
der to identify the relatively small resistance
changes and to compensate for tempera-
N
ture-related signal changes, several sensor S R2
R1

elements are configured in a bridge. N R'2

R'1 +US

t /4
D
GN

The new scanning The system operates without requiring

electronic readhead maintenance. The design of the scanning
unit of the measuring head has been opti-
mized to achieve the highest reliability.
● The single piece titanium scanning glider
is prepared with a special finish selected
for its wear resistance and its sliding char-
acteristics.
● The newly developed MONORAIL AMSA
sensor chip was designed utilizing state
of the art semiconductor technology.
As a result, a significant increase in the
reliability and signal quality has been
achieved.
● The signals of the MONORAIL AMSA are
compatible with current NC control sys-
tems and technology. Either 1 Vpp or
11 µApp output signals are available.
For control systems requiring a TTL input,
an external electronic interpolation sys-
tem (SMEa) is available.

• 58
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Insensitive to contamination For normal machine operating conditions

this integrated measuring system is in-
sensitive to oil, grease and coolant contam-
ination. In especially dirty operating envi-
ronments additional standard wipers ZAN/
ZAV are recommended.

MONORAIL AMS
Precise measuring standard The magnetic grating and the reference
marks are applied to a hard magnetic ma-
terial rigidly connected to the rail. This ma-
terial’s thermal behavior corresponds to that
of steel and gray iron.
In the measuring direction, the scale incre-
ments consist of consecutive north and
south poles. The high coercive field strength
of the scale material guarantees the mag-
netization of the poles.
The measuring standard is applied as the
final step.

Scanning signals The scanning signals consist of two sinus-

oidal signals and a reference mark. The sig-
nals are phase-shifted to each other by 90°. 360° el
Ie1 A
The signal period 360° corresponds to the
grating period «t» of the scale. 0

Ie2 B
0

90° Phase shift

el
Ie0 Reference mark signal R
0

• 59
 Digital interpolation The analog current signals of the scanning
electronics SMEa head are amplified and sent to a digital sig-
nal processor. This calculates the present Ua1
position and from it the number of meas-
uring steps covered. These are output as 0
quadrature TTL signals. With an interpola-
tion factor of 100, using edge detection, a Ua2
measuring step of 1µm is achieved.
0
The interpolation electronics is available in Measuring step
two versions: voltage and current.

Ua0 Reference pulse

6.2 Technical data

MONORAIL AMSA Measuring standard Hard-magnetic North/South gratings

Signal period 400 µm (= grating period t)
Accuracy class ± 5 µm/m at 20° C
Reference marks every 50 mm
Measuring step 1 µm with SMEa,
interpolation to 0.2 µm possible
Repeatability ± 1 measuring step
Interpolation error ± 1 µm
Max. traversing
speed 3 m/s
Output signals sinusoidal, 90° phase-shifted
current signals Ie1, Ie2: 7 to 16 µApp (1 kΩ load)
voltage signals A, B: 0.6 to 1.2 Vpp (120 Ω load)
Reference signal current signals Ie0: approx. 5.5 µA (usable component)
voltage signals R: approx. 0.5 V (usable component)
Electrical connections current signals 9 pins, voltage signals 12 pins
cable 3 m with connector (standard)
cable 0.3 m with mounting base and flange (optional)
Power supply 5 V ± 5%/50 mA
Protection (DIN 40050) IP 64
Operating temperature 0 to 50° C
Max. rail length L3 3000 mm

Measuring electronic SMEa A detailed brochure is available for download at www.schneeberger.com in section Prod-
ucts/Measuring systems or contact your SCHNEEBERGER partner.

• 60
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

6.3 Dimensions

Beginning of
AMSA 25 measuring length
Rail length L3
Measuring length ML  L3  L9
L5 L9
Z L7 L8 L9* 12 L8 L7
1.5 MRA/ MRB/ MRA/ MRB/ 6
Marked
MRC MRD MRC MRD
25 203 57 79.4 12 149 171.4
Z = Distance to first reference mark
M6

Further reference marks are spaced at

50 mm over measuring length Z Marking on the rail where the first
Locating side reference mark occurs

MONORAIL AMS
L3, L5 see chapter 4.2 and 4.3

Beginning of
AMSA 35, 45, 55, 65 measuring length
Rail length L3
Z L7 L8 L9* Measuring length ML  L3  L9
1.5 MRA/ MRB/ MRA/ MRB/ L5 L9
MRC MRD MRC MRD
L8 L7
35 227 76 103 16.5 166.5 193.5 Marked
6
45 243 100 135 19 195 230
55 277 120 162 22 221 263
65 344 – 201 25 – 310
Z = Distance to first reference mark
Further reference marks are spaced at
50 mm over measuring length Z Marking on the rail where the first
L3, L5 see chapter 4.2 and 4.3 Locating side reference mark occurs
left** right**

Mounting base with

flange socket (male)
41
M 47
10  20 0.2 
200.2
 30

15

5
 4.3

 7.4

6 4.6
Connection cables AMS KAO 11,
KAM 11, KAO 12 or KAO 13

* When using additional wipers, the total length L9 is increasing, see chapter 4.5.
** Only for orders of additional wipers AMS–LI and AMS–RE

• 61
 Dimensions SMEa /
Cable connections 2 Mounting
Input screws
MONORAIL AMS A 74 175 M 4  20 DIN 912

57 52
40
80

8.5
4.3
23

 28

14
M4

520.2
22 6 1630.2 9

Ground screw

6.4 Ordering information Orders for MONORAIL MR with AMS versions require additional information to ensure the
MONORAIL MR with AMS correct execution of the order. Mark on the supplementary sheet:
● Position of scanning unit (ev. add special drawing)
● Type, accuracy class, preload in the event of different carriage types on a rail
● Additional wipers
● Locating sides of carriages and rails
● Position of the lubrication connections
● Installation orientation and type of lubrication
For orders with more than two rails, butt joint rails, rails with more than two carriages per
rail or a different position of the scanning head as indicated in the supplementary sheet a
separate drawing is required.

Guideway MONORAIL MR Order information see chapter 4.6 for MONORAIL MR. The guideway with the integrated
measuring system has to be indicated with an A in the ordering designation, for size 25
additionally with an U for rails with tapped attachment holes at the bottom.

Delivery content The measuring system AMS contains, according to the following order designation, the
scale on the rail, the scanning head and its housing. Other accessories have to be ordered
separately.

• 62
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Measuring system AMS

__ AMSA 35 –0948 –S –I
Quantity
Type AMSA analog
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65
Length of measuring system in mm
(max. 3000 mm, according to max. single piece rails)
Electrical connection S Cable 3 m with connector
M Cable 0.3 m with mounting base and flange socket
Output signal U Voltage output
I Current output

MONORAIL AMS
Accessories AMS – to be ordered separately

Interpolation electronics
__ SMEA –I –P –S
Quantity
Type SMEa
Interface U Voltage input
I Current input
Voltage P Type with «power sense»
supply D «DC-DC converter»
Configuration S Standard configuration
K Custom configuration of interpolation rate, signal edge separation,
reference pulse width

Extension/Connection cables
__ KAO 10 –5
Quantity
Type KAO 10 KAM 10
KAO 11 KAM 11
KAO 12
KAO 13
KAO 14
Length in m 1, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20 (Longer lengths on request)

• 63
Scanning head (in case of replacement)
__ SMA 35 –S –I
Quantity
Type SMA analog
Size 25, 35 (also for sizes 45, 55), 65
Electrical connection S Cable 3 m with connector
M Cable 0.3 m with mounting base and flange socket
Output signal U Voltage interface
I Current interface

Housing for scanning head

__ AMS-GEH –35
Quantity
Type AMS-GEH
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65 Size 25 without lubrication connection

Additional wipers
__ ZAN 35 –AMS
Quantity
Type ZAN (NBR)
ZAV (Viton)
Size 25, 35, 45, 55, 65
Version AMS* for AMS-rail (only size 25)
AMS-LI* for AMS-rail, left version (only size 35)
AMS-RE* for AMS-rail, right version (only size 35)
AMS-GEH* for AMS-housing

Front plate (spare part)

__ STP 25 –AMS
Quantity
Type STP
Size 25, 35
Version AMS* for AMS rail (size 25 only)
AMS-LI* for AMS rail, left version (size 35 only)
AMS-RE* for AMS rail, right version (size 35 only)
Lubrication no indication Standard, M6 center front
connection SO-AB from above, carriage type MRA/MRB
SO-CD from above, carriage type MRC/MRD
SS** lateral (size 35 only)
SV** front lateral (size 35 only)
ST** special, 2  connections per carriage (size 35 only)

* Special geometry of the sealing lips on the side of the magnetic scale, see also chapter 6.3
** Order with indication of lubrication connection positions required

• 64
Supplementary sheet for MR 25–65 with AMS/Arrangement of carriages and accessories

Customer, Address

Machine, axis Drawing No. Customer

SCHNEEBERGER-rep. Drawing No. SCHNEEBERGER

Ordering information MONORAIL 1

Ordering information MONORAIL 2

MONORAIL 1 Type, Size Type, Size

Wiper ZAN ZAN
ZAV ZAV
Lubrication SS Marked side
SV Carriage
locating side
FBM FBM FBM

MONORAIL AMS
L5 L4 L10
Lubrication
Carriage
front laterally SV locating side
laterally SS Rail locating
above SO side
front center SM SM

MONORAIL 2 Type, Size Type, Size

ASM
ZAN
ZAV
Marked side
SS
Carriage
SV locating side
FBM FBM FBM

L5 L4 L10

Carriage
SV locating side
SS
Rail locating
SO side
SM

Mounting position Lubrication/ Attach Rail

Accessories covering
standard (horizontal/vertical) Lubricating nipples from above MRK MRZ
special: turned ° on longitudinal axis of the mounted from bottom MRS MAB
rail (Two connections per carriage are (-U-)
recommended with oil, size 35–65)

• 65
 MONORAIL BM – the ball type linear guideway.
Ball-MONORAIL BM

There is
know-how
inside *

Enhanced run-out
accuracy

High loads and moments • Optimized geometry

of carriage and rail
• Stiffness against
roll moments
• O-Geometry

Simple and fast

maintenance
• Exchangeability
of wear parts on
the rail
• Small number of
parts
Less carriage pulsation
• Unique run-in-area

* MONORAIL BM –
know-how, to your advantage.

• 66
 Ball-MONORAIL BM
7 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

7.1 Product features

Ball-MONORAIL BM
Very good dynamic characteristics and high economy are the distinguishing features of
the Schneeberger ball type linear guideway MONORAIL BM. The novel design with few
but optimally designed components, because the small number of transitions (joints) in
the ball tracks makes outstanding running characteristics possible, which are distin-
guished by smooth running, little pulsation, low friction values and high travelling speeds.
By means of the trapeze-shaped rail cross-section, a high rigidity of the guideway has
been achieved and simultaneously the maintenance effort required significantly reduced,
because parts subject to wear can be replaced without having to dismantle the guideway.
The complete sealing of the carriages guarantees a high reliability in conjunction with a
long service life. This robust guideway is therefore suitable for many and diverse applica-
tions and represents an ideal complement to the roller guideway MR.

• 67
 Unique running Special attention was focused on the run-in area of the balls from the unloaded to the
characteristics loaded zone. This area was geometrically balanced in such a manner, that very smooth
operation, minimum travel pulsation, pitch movement and noise, was achieved, in both
low and high speed movements.
^ 2 N force
1 mm =

0
^ 2 mm travel
1 mm =

Completely sealed The double-lip cross wiper seals as well as

the additionally sealed gaps between the
front plate and the steel body ensure an
exceedingly effective seal and therefore a
significant increase of the service life.
The operational safety and reliability of the
wiper seals is even more enhanced by the
smooth rail surface when using the stand-
ard rail cover strip.

Balls retained The robust construction is also clearly evi-

dent by the fact that the balls are securely
held in the tracks of the carriage at all times.
Therefore an assembly rail for installing
or removing the carriage is not required, if
carefully executed.

• 68
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Optimized rail and carriage Because of the trapezoidal rail profile, it was
cross sections possible to optimize the carriage cross sec-
tions for the highest possible rigidity.
This rail profile enables easier servicing be-
cause the front plate, standard and addi-
tional wipers can be replaced without re-
moving the carriage from the rail.

The highest precision The MONORAIL BM is a modern, 4-row ball

Ball-MONORAIL BM
with high rigidity guideway. The balls make contact with each
track at only two points, even under pre-
load. As a result, the friction is reduced to a
minimum and quiet, smooth running is
achieved. Due to the selected ball arrange-
ment, this guideway has a high load bear-
ing capacity, equal in any direction.
Consequently, the MONORAIL BM can be
used in a broad range of applications. The
precision of the guideway corresponds to
the high SCHNEEBERGER accuracy stand-
ard. Additional central mounting holes par-
ticularly when wide carriages are used yields
an increased rigidity under tensile load.

Versatile lubrication The carriages can be lubricated through

possibilities various lubrication connections (from the
front, either side or above). The geometry of
the lubrication channels, combined with
efficient sealing, reduces lubricant con-
sumption. This provides both economic and
environmental benefits.

• 69
7.2 Dimension table,
loading capacities
MONORAIL BM B
N
Locating side f3 f3
Carriage types BMA and BMB e e
f f

m1

g1
o

g
P
J

45°

A
J1
g2
f1
f2
B2 B1
Locating side Marked side

BMA L5
L4
BMB
L3

L6
L1
L2

L
L1
L6
L2

L
L10

Drawings in dxf or dwg format are

available on www.schneeberger.com
in section Services.

Type Dimensions (mm)

A B B1* B2 J J1 L** L1 L2 L4 L5 / L6 N e f f1 f2 f3
+0.4 0.05 L10
0

BMA 15 24 47 15 16 20.2 15.7 59.8 30 26 60 29 42.8 38 M 5 4.4 4.5 8 7.5

BMA 20 75.5 53.5
30 63 20 21.5 25.5 19 40 35 60 29 53 M 6 5.4 5.8 10 9.5
BMB 20 91.5 69.5
BMA 25 89.3 64.3
36 70 23 23.5 30.5 22.7 45 40 60 29 57 M 8 6.8 7 11 11
BMB 25 108.3 83.3
BMA 30 103 75
42 90 28 31 35.9 26 52 44 80 39 72 M 10 8.5 9 15 15
BMB 30 125 97
BMA 35 118 86
48 100 34 33 41 29.5 62 52 80 39 82 M 10 8.5 9 15 15
BMB 35 143.5 111.5
BMA 45 145 107
60 120 45 37.5 50.8 37 80 60 105 51.5 100 M 12 10.5 14 20 18
BMB 45 176.5 138.5

* Lower tolerances on request

** When using additional wipers and metal wipers, the total length L is increasing, see
chapter 7.5.
• 70
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

MQ / M0Q

Roll ML / M0L

C0
C
Pitch

C / C0 C / C0

Ball-MONORAIL BM
ML / M0L

Yaw

ball Loading capacities Moments Weight

 g g1 g2 m1 o P C0 C M0Q M0L MQ ML Carriage Rail
(N) (N) (Nm) (Nm) (Nm) (Nm) (kg) (kg/m)

3.2 7 4.5 9.5 4 7 7 19 600 9 000 181 146 83 67 0.3 1.4

31 400 14 400 373 292 171 134 0.5
4.0 8 6.5 11.5 5.2 8 8 2.2
41 100 17 400 490 495 206 208 0.6
46 100 21 100 631 513 289 235 0.7
4.8 9 8 14 5.5 7 11 3.0
60 300 25 500 825 863 349 365 0.9
63 700 29 200 1 084 829 497 380 1.2
5.6 12 10 14.5 7 8 12 4.3
83 300 35 300 1 414 1 390 599 589 1.5
84 400 38 700 1 566 1 252 718 574 1.8
6.4 12 12 18 7 8 14 5.4
110 300 46 700 2 048 2 104 867 891 2.3
134 800 61 900 3 193 2 498 1 466 1 147 3.3
7.9 15 15 22 8 10 17.5 8.8
176 300 74 700 4 175 4 199 1 769 1 779 4.2

C0 = Static loading capacity

C = Dynamic loading capacity (100 km)
M0 = Static moment capacity
M = Dynamic moment capacity (100 km) • 71
7.3 Dimension table,
loading capacities
15, 25, 30, 35, 45 20
MONORAIL BM
B
Locating side B
Carriage types BMC and BMD N
N
e
e

m1
m1
o

g
o
J

A
A

J1
J1

g2
g2
f1 f1
f2 f2
Locating side Marked side
B2 B1 B2 B1

L5
BMC L4
BMD
L3

L1

L7
L
L1
L7
L
L10

Drawings in dxf or dwg format are

available on www.schneeberger.com
in section Services.

Type Dimensions (mm)

A B B1* B2 J J1 L** L1 L4 L5 / L7 N e f1
+0.4 0.05 L10
0

BMC 15 28 34 15 9.5 24.2 15.7 59.8 26 60 29 42.8 26 M 4 4.5

BMC 20 75.5 36 53.5
30 44 20 12 25.5 19 60 29 32 M 5 5.8
BMD 20 91.5 50 69.5
BMC 25 89.3 35 64.3
40 48 23 12.5 34.5 22.7 60 29 35 M 6 7
BMD 25 108.3 50 83.3
BMC 30 103 40 75
45 60 28 16 38.9 26 80 39 40 M 8 9
BMD 30 125 60 97
BMC 35 118 50 86
55 70 34 18 48 29.5 80 39 50 M 8 9
BMD 35 143.5 72 111.5
BMC 45 145 60 107
70 86 45 20.5 60.8 37 105 51.5 60 M 10 14
BMD 45 176.5 80 138.5

* Lower tolerances on request

** When using additional wipers and metal wipers, the total length L is increasing, see
chapter 7.4.
• 72
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

MQ / M0Q

Roll ML / M0L

C0
C
Pitch

C / C0 C / C0

Ball-MONORAIL BM
ML / M0L

Yaw

ball Loading capacities Moments Weight

f2  g g2 m1 o C0 C M0Q M0L MQ ML Carriage Rail
(N) (N) (Nm) (Nm) (Nm) (Nm) (kg) (kg/m)

8 3.2 6 9.5 8 6 19 600 9 000 181 146 83 67 0.3 1.4

31 400 14 400 373 292 171 134 0.4
10 4.0 7 11.5 5.2 6 2.2
41 100 17 400 490 495 206 208 0.5
46 100 21 100 631 513 289 235 0.7
11 4.8 9 14 9.5 11 3.0
60 300 25 500 825 863 349 365 0.8
63 700 29 200 1 084 829 497 380 1.0
15 5.6 11 14.5 10 11 4.3
83 300 35 300 1 414 1 390 599 589 1.3
84 400 38 700 1 566 1 252 718 574 1.8
15 6.4 12 18 14 15 5.4
110 300 46 700 2 048 2 104 867 891 2.3
134 800 61 900 3 193 2 498 1 466 1 147 3.4
20 7.9 18 22 18 19 8.8
176 300 74 700 4 175 4 199 1 769 1 779 4.3

C0 = Static loading capacity

C = Dynamic loading capacity (100 km)
M0 = Static moment capacity
M = Dynamic moment capacity (100 km) • 73
7.4 Rigidity The diagrams correspond to preload class V 3

BMA 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 45

BMC 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 45 70
45
60
Deformation  (µm)

50
35
30
25
40
15 20
30

20
F
10

Compressive load 0
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65
Load F (kN)

110 45
100
90 35
Deformation  (µm)

80
30
70
20 25
60
15
50
40
30
20
F 10
Tensile load 0
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65
Load F (kN)

90 45
80
35
70
Deformation  (µm)

30
60
20 25
50
15
40
30
20
10
Lateral load F 0
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65
Load F (kN)

• 74
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

BMB 20, 25, 30, 35, 45

BMD 20, 25, 30, 35, 45 70 70

60 60
4545
3535
Deformation  (µm)

50 50
3030
40 40 2525
2020
30 30

20 20
F
10 10

Compressive load 0 0
5 5 101015152020252530303535404045455050555560606565707075758080
Load F (kN)

Ball-MONORAIL BM
110
110
45
45
100
100
90
90
Deformation  (µm)

80
80
30
30 35
35
70
70
20
20 25
25
60
60
50
50
40
40
30
30
20
20
F 10
10
Tensile load 0
0 5
5 10
10 15
15 20
20 25
25 30
30 35
35 40
40 45
45 50
50 55
55 60
60 65
65 70
70 75
75 80
80
Load F (kN)

90
45
80
70
Deformation  (µm)

35
30
60
20 25
50
40
30
20
10
Lateral load F 0
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80
Load F (kN)

• 75
7.5 Accessories – to be ordered sep-
arately

Rail cover strip BAB With the rail cover strip (stainless steel), a
smooth sealing surface is achieved, which
optimizes wiper function. The cover strip is
easily installed and can be supplied in sev-
eral pieces. The cover is secured by a full-
surface adhesive tape which prevents liq-
uids from seeping under the strip and po-
tentially causing corrosion. In addition, the
adhesive prevents the strip from separating
from the rail in any installation orientation.
The rail cover strip is always 5 mm shorter
than the total length of the rail.

Plastic plug BRK Plastic plugs can be utilized instead of the

rail cover strip for closing off the rail attach-


ment holes.
When utilizing them it must be noted, that
the rails in their standard version have a
chamfer of 0.5 45°, so that with the plas-
tic plugs ring-shaped gaps result.
For applications in environments with strong
contamination with dirt therefore the rail
cover strip BAB has to be preferred. When
plastic plugs are utilized, they have to be
used in conjunction with additional wipers
ZBN-U/ZBV-U.

Additional wipers ZBN / ZBV The ZBN and ZBV wipers provide effective
additional protection of the rails in highly
contaminated surroundings. Two versions
are available:
● ZBN made of NBR (Nitrile)
● ZBV made of VITON® (Fluoro-elastomer)
for applications with aggressive coolants
The wipers ZBN / ZBV can also be used in
combination with the metal wiper ABM.

Thickness:
7 mm
Height screw head
max 4 mm

• 76
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Additional wipers For rails without cover strip, such as rails

ZBN-U / ZBV-U attached from the bottom or with plastic
plugs, exists a special type with adapted
sealing lips geometry and black-anodized
support. Two versions are available:
● ZBN-U made of NBR (Nitrile)
● ZBV-U made of VITON® (Fluoro-elasto-
mer) for applications with aggressive
coolants
The wipers ZBN-U/ZBV-U can also be used
in combination with the metal wiper ABM.

Thickness:
7 mm
Height of screw head
max. 4 mm

Metal wiper ABM The metal wipers ABM serve for the pro-

Ball-MONORAIL BM
tection of the sealing lips of carriages and
additional wipers against hot metal chips.
Large and loose dirt particles are pushed
away and because of the large radial gap to
the rail cannot get jammed. The metal wip-
ers are ideally utilized in combination with
additional wipers ZBN/ZBV.

Thickness:
1.5 mm
Height of screw head
max. 4 mm

Bellows FBB A standard bellows is available for MONORAIL sizes BM 20 – BM 45. The bellows covers
the entire length of the rail and is mainly used to provide additional protection against dust
and splashed water.
The bellows is made of a synthetic fabric coated on both sides with polyurethane. Instal-
lation is simple and requires little time. The ZPB adapter plate is required to attach the bel-
lows to the carriage. The adapter plate is screwed to the front plate of the carriage. The
EPL end plate can be screwed to the end face of the rail. The bellows is fastened with two
rivets each to the adapter plate and front plate.
The required adapter and end plates, the attaching screws and rivets are supplied with
the order of a complete bellow.

Outside dimensions
The outside dimensions of the bellows and adapter plates conform to those of the re-
spective front plates.

• 77
 Adapter plate ZPB
The adapter plate is used for attaching the bellows to the carriage and is made of black-
anodized aluminum.

End plate (EPB) Bellows (FBB) Adapter plate (ZPB)

b
n

a
J1

o
r
c f1
4 Rivets

Size FBB 20 FBB 25 FBB 30 FBB 35 FBB 45

Dimension in mm

a 25 30 35 39.5 50
b 43 47 58.5 68 84
c 20 23 28 34 45
n 32 34 42 53 67
o 12.5 14 17.5 20 25.5
J1 14.8 17.5 20.2 22.3 28.1
r 4.5 5.5 6.1 7.0 9.2
f1 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5

End plate EPB

The end plate is used to attach the bellows at the end of the rail and is made of red-
anodized aluminum.
The attaching holes can be drilled into the rail according to the drawing below, if the bellows
is to be retrofitted.

a
H2 H1

8 t S

• 78
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Size EPB 20 EPB 25 EPB 30 EPB 35 EPB 45

Dimension in mm

a 25 30 35 40 50
b 43 47 58.5 68 84
H1 6.5 8 8 10.5 13.5
H2 8.5 10 12 13 16.7
S t M 3 12 M 4 8 M 4 8 M 4 8 M 6 10

Bellows length calculation Lb = L + 2  P

E Zd Az

Lmin Lb

Ball-MONORAIL BM
H

Lmax

L3

Lb = 2  (L + 2  P) + Lw

Lb

P L P Lw P L P

Lmin = n • Zd + 10 Lmax = H + Lmin

H
n = round up to whole number
Az – Zd

Az : Extension per fold Lmax : Extended length of bellows

E : End plate thickness Lmin : Closed length of bellows
H : Travel distance Lw : Clearance between two carriages
L : Carriage length (chapter 7.2 or 7.3) n : Number of folds per bellows
Lb : Total length with adapter plates P : Adapter plate thickness
L3 : Rail length Zd : Closed distance per fold

• 79
 Size FBB 20 FBB 25 FBB 30 FBB 35 FBB 45
Dimension in mm

AZ 12 12 15 20 22
Zd 2.0 2.7 2.7 2.7 2.7
E 8 8 8 8 8
P 10 10 10 10 10

Rail length calculation

L3 = Lmin + Lmax + Lb

NEW The plastic assembly rail is recommended

Assembly rail MBM for protection of the balls against contami-
nation during transportation and storage. It
also facilitates removing the carriage from
the rail and the reinstallation of the carriage
after the guideway assembly.
If necessary, the two internal screws for
fastening the carriage can be tightened
through the two holes in the assembly rail.

Front plate STB – spare part The red front plates at the end sides of the
MONORAIL carriages have two essential
functions:
● Supply of lubricant and
● sealing the MONORAIL carriages.
Through several integrated lubrication
connections, with the help of a lubricating
nipple or by connection to a lubricating line
lubricant can be supplied to the carriages,
refer to chapter 3.6 Lubrication. Lubricating
channels inside the front plate distribute the
lubricant and guide it to the balls.
The integrated double-lip cross wipers seal
the carriage at the ends and with this pre-
vent the ingress of dirt and the loss of lubri-
cant. Because the cross wipers are subject
to wear, the front plates have to be exam-
ined regularly and if necessary replaced, also
refer to chapter 10, Precautionary Meas-
ures.

• 80
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

NEW SCHNEEBERGER for the most diverse

Brakes and clamps application cases offers clamping – and
braking elements for the ball guideway
MONORAIL BM. The various alternatives
can be utilized for applications like the
securing of a position of linear axes, the
clamping of machine tables and right to the
application of a controllable counter-force
in case of chip-removing processes.
Available are manual, pneumatic- and hy-
draulic-actuated products.
Versions opening when pressure is applied
are optimally suitable for securing vertical
axes or linear motor axes in case of an
electric power failure.
For more detailed information, please
contact your SCHNEEBERGER represen-
tative.

Ball-MONORAIL BM

• 81
7.6 Ordering information BM When custom MONORAIL BM versions are required, additional information is needed to
ensure the correct execution of the order. This has to be marked on the supplementary
order sheet.
● Type, accuracy class, preload in the event of different carriage types on a rail
● Additional wipers
● Locating sides of carriages and rail
● Position of the lubrication connections
● Installation orientation and type of lubrication
In the case of more than 2 rails, butt joint rails or in the case of more than two carriages
per rail, a separate drawing is required on which as well the lengths of all sections of multi-
section rails and rail cover strips are indicated.

Guideway BALL-MONORAIL BM
__ BM 35 –C2 –0964 –U –19 –25 –X –G3 –V1 –GP –SO –A –HH
Quantity
Guideway type BM
Size 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 45
Carriage type A, B, C, D When different carriages
Carriage qty 1, 2, … per rail e. g. –A2 –B1
Rail length L3 (in mm). State the total length for multi-section
rails ground together.
Rail version* U Rails with tapped attachment holes
Starting hole pitch L5 (in mm)
End hole pitch L10 (in mm)
Rail hole pitch X half hole pitch (as MR)
L4 special* Y L4 not standard or not uniform (drawing required)
Accuracy class G0, G1, G2, G3
Preload class V1, V2, V3
Matched* GP
Lubrication connection not standard* SO above
Position has to be indicated on supplementary sheet SS lateral
ST special, 2  connections per carriage (not sizes 15, 20)
Carriages with parallel locating sides* A carriage width BA = (B+0.2)  0.05 mm
Hard-chroming* H only rails hard-chromed
HH rails and carriages hard-chromed

*Optional specifications

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Accessories BALL-MONORAIL BM – to be ordered separately

Rail cover strip

__ BAB 35 –0958
Quantity
Type BAB (Steel cover strip)
Size 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 45
Rail length L3 (Length rail cover strip = L3 – 5 mm)

Plugs
__ BRK 35
Quantity
Type BRK (plastic)
Size 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 45

Ball-MONORAIL BM
Additional wipers
__ ZBN 35 –U
Quantity
Type ZBN (NBR)
ZBV (Viton)
Size 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 45
Version without specification Rail with cover strip BAB
U U-rails and rails with plugs BRK

Metal wipers
__ ABM 35
Quantity
Type ABM
Size 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 45

Bellows
__ FBB 30 –24 –EZ
Quantity
Type FBB
Size 20, 25, 30, 35, 45
Number of folds
Version without specification bellows only, without attachment plates
EZ with 1 endplate (EPL) and 1 adapter plate (ZPL) – For mounting to rail ends
ZZ with 2 adapter plates – For mounting between two carriages

• 83
Attachment plates for bellows
__ ZPB –30
Quantity
Type ZPB Adapter plate
EPB End plate
Size 20, 25, 30, 35, 45

Assembly rail
__ MBM –20
Quantity
Type MBM
Size 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 45

Front plate (spare part)

__ STB –30 –AB –SO
Quantity
Type STB
Size 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 45
Version AB for carriage type BMA, BMB
CD for carriage type BMC, BMD
Lubrication no specification Standard, center front
connection SO from above
SS lateral
ST special, 2 connections per carriage (not sizes 15, 20)

• 84
Supplementary sheet for BM 15–45/Arrangement of carriages and accessories

Customer, Address

Machine, axis Drawing No. Customer

SCHNEEBERGER-rep. Drawing No. SCHNEEBERGER

Ordering information MONORAIL 1

Ordering information MONORAIL 2

MONORAIL 1 Type, Size Type, Size

Wiper ABM
ZBN/ZBN-U
ZBV/ZBV-U
Marked side
Lubrication SS
Carriage
locating side
FBB FBB FBB

L5 L4 L10
Lubrication
Carriage

Ball-MONORAIL BM
laterally SS locating side
above SO
Rail locating
front center SM side

MONORAIL 2 Type, Size Type, Size

ABM
ZBN/ZBN-U
ZBV/ZBV-U
Marked side
SS
Carriage
locating side
FBB FBB FBB

L5 L4 L10

Carriage
SS locating side
SO
Rail locating
SM side

Mounting position Lubrication Attach Rail

Accessories covering
standard (horizontal/vertical) Lubricating nipples from above BRK
special: turned ° on longitudinal mounted from bottom BAB
axis of the rail (in combination with oil, see special (-U-)
lubrication instructions)

• 85
 Dimensioning
8

8.1 Basics The demands for accuracy, surface quality and short machining times are becoming
increasingly stringent. This is why the anti-friction guideways in modern machine con-
struction are selected according to permissible elastic deformation.
The following steps are therefore necessary for the dimensioning of anti-friction guideways.
– Determination of the external forces and moment loads
– Distribution of forces and moment loads acting on individual MONORAIL
carriages
– Preload and deformation determination
– Calculation of operational life
– Calculation of static reliability
The operational life is limited by material fatigue as well as by heavy wear of the rolling-
contact surfaces.
The rolling contact of the surfaces causes material fatigue and therefore results in dam-
age to the track and rolling element (spalling). If the force acting on the rolling-contact
surfaces is known, the operational life can be calculated according to DIN ISO 281 or
DIN 636.
Relative motions of the loaded surfaces cause friction wear. The extent of wear is mainly
determined by the magnitude of the relative motion, surface pressure, lubrication and de-
gree of contamination.

Za
M
a
X

a,x
Fa
,Y

Fa ay
,z M m
,x
a
F

Q
Ya
a
z

Zm
Y
m

m
X

Y
sp

Z
sp

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

The operational life is calculated in the following example. Due to undeterminable factors,
there is no standard wear-life calculation procedure.

8.2 Operational life calculation Determination of external forces and moments

The external forces acting on the guideway system are determined by the force compo-
nents Fax, Fay, Faz with the force application coordinates Xa, Ya, Za. A mass m with the
acceleration components ax, ay, az causes the guideway system to be loaded by the iner-
tia forces Fmx, Fmy, Fmz, which act at the center of gravity coordinates Xm, Ym, Zm.

Fmx = m  –ax
Fmy = m  –ay
Fmz = m  –az

The forces Fy, Fz acting at 90º to the longitudinal axis of the table are to be taken up
directly by the guideway sytem:
The longitudinal forces Fx are transmitted by the longitudinal drive:
External moments Max, May and Maz can also act:
The external forces Fax, Fay, Faz and inertia forces Fmx, Fmy, Fmz in combination with their
respective points of actions Xa, Ya, Za or Xm, Ym, Zm, also result in moments:
The point of action of the force of the longitudinal drive Ysp, Zsp affects the moments act-
ing on the guideway system.

Distribution of forces and moment loads on the individual MONORAIL

carriages
The longitudinal carriage spacing K and lateral spacing Q are required to calculate

Dimensioning
the side forces Fjy and compression-tension forces Fjz on each MONORAIL carriages
(j = 1…n).
The arrangement of carriage and guiderail in the axes must be taken into account.

Determination of preload and deformation

The MONORAIL preload is determined by the service conditions as well as the demands
made on the rigidity of the machine guideway.
Preloads V1, V2 or V3 increase not only the rigidity, they also additionally load the rolling-
contact surfaces as long as the preload is effective.
The forces acting on the MONORAIL cause displacements which can be obtained from
the deformation diagrams in chapter 4.4 for MONORAIL MR, resp. 7.4 for MONORAIL BM.

Operational life calculation

The factors affecting the operational life are the forces acting on MONORAIL carriages,
selected preload, dynamic loading capacity C and event probability.
If constant forces act over the entire translation distance, the operational life is calculated
with the equivalent force Pj. However, if varying forces are expected, the dynamic equi-
valent loading must be used.

• 87
 Equivalent force P
The equivalent force Pj for each MONORAIL (j = 1…n) is required for the operational life
calculation. The values of the force components Fjy and Fjz acting on each MONORAIL
carriage are added algebraically to obtain the effective Fj:

Fj =  Fjy    Fjz 

The following formula can be used to calculate the approximate value of the equivalent
force Pj which actually acts on the rolling-contact surfaces:

Pj = Fpreload + 2/3  Fj for Fj  3  Fpreload

Pj = Fj for Fj  3  Fpreload

Dynamic equivalent loading

If force P is not constant, the equivalent force P in the step-loading mode can be calcu-
lated for each MONORAIL with the following formula (the respective force Pjk is constant
for each partial translation distance Ik):

n
10 / 3
 (P
k=1
j,k
1

j,k10 / 3 • lk)
Pj = n

l(
k=1
k 10 / 3 P)

Dynamic loading capacity C

The loading capacity figures for anti-friction guideways are based on the principles speci-
fied by the ISO for calculation of rolling-contact bearings (DIN ISO 281).
Dynamic loading capacity is the loading which results in a nominal operational life corre-
sponding to a translation distance of 100 000 m provided that the loading due to mass
and direction is unchanged and the line of influence acts vertically on the rolling-contact
bearing unit.

Comparison of loading capacities

Other suppliers often indicate their loading capacities for a translation distance of 50 000 m.
These values according to JIS Standard are above the values according to DIN ISO. The
recalculation of the loading capacities is done as follows:

C50 = 1.23  C100 for roller guideways

C50 = 1.26  C100 for ball guideways

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Event probability
According to DIN ISO, the loading capacities for rolling-contact bearings are specified such
that a value results from the operational life formula which will be exceeded with a proba-
bility of 90%. If this probability is insufficient, the operational life values must be reduced
by a factor a1 according to the adjacent table:

Event
probability % 90 95 96 97 98 99

Factor a1 1.00 0.62 0.53 0.44 0.33 0.21

Operational life calculation

The nominal calculated operational life L for the equivalent force P and a dynamic loading
capacity C is

L = a1 (C/P)q  105 m L = nominal life (m)

a1 = event probability
q = 10/3 for roller guideways
q = 3 for ball guideways
L L
Lh = = Lh = nominal life (h)
2 s n 60 60 vm s = stroke length (m)
n = stroke frequency (min-1)
vm = medium traversing speed (m/min)

Dimensioning
8.3 Calculation of static reliability The static reliability factor S0 is the reliability with respect to permanent deformations on
factor rolling elements and tracks and is defined as the ratio of the static loading capacity C0 to
the static equivalent loading P0.
S0 = C0/P0
The actual force acting on the rolling-contact surfaces must be taken into account for P0.
The governing factor for a deformation of the rolling-contact surfaces is the highest am-
plitude which can also occur for a very short period of time.

Operating conditions S0

Highest rigidity, high shock loads

and vibrations  6
High rigidity, medium, varying
loads and vibrations  4
Uniform load,
small vibrations  3

• 89
8.4 Calculation Program The manual calculation of the service lifetime, of the load bearing safety and of the dis-
for the dimensioning placement under a combined load is very complicated and can only be carried out for sim-
of MONORAILs ple applications. For this reason, SCHNEEBERGER as a service offers to carry out these
calculations with the help of a computer program.

Objective and Purpose of the Calculation Program

The computer-assisted calculation program for the design of MONORAILs serves for the
determination of:
● the required MONORAIL size
● the optimum preload
● the static reliability factor
● the nominal service lifetime
● the elastic displacements of the working point under the effect of a load for a given
MONORAIL system.

Taken into consideration to do this are the real, non-linear rigidities of the individual
MONORAIL carriages and the interaction of the carriages amongst one another, which
are produced by the differing rigidities under tensile, compressive and lateral loads.
Additional deformations as a result of thermal expansion and elastic deformation of the
machine construction are not taken into consideration.

Required Data
For the calculation, all information is required, as represented on the following machine
drawing with data sheet:
● Guideway geometries with the number of carriages and rails, carriage spacings longi-
tudinally and laterally
● Position of the axes in space and distances between them (distances between the ref-
erence points of neighboring axes)
● Masses of all machine axes and workpieces to be calculated
● Location of the mass centers of gravity
● Location of the drive elements versus the corresponding of the axis reference point
● Location of the load point (point of attack of force and moment)
● Maximum travel distances (stroke) of the axes to be calculated
● Maximum speed and acceleration of the axes

Additionally, in the case of differing load cases:

● Collective load with speed, acceleration, travel distance and percentage proportion of
time as well as magnitude and direction of the forces and moments applied at the point
of work in function of the corresponding load case.

All geometrical dimensions are referred to the corresponding axis center (refer to drawing).
The designation of the axes in the cartesian coordinates’ system can be selected as re-
quired.

For a large number of typical machines and designs, SCHNEEBERGER can provide
machine sketches and data sheets. For further information, please contact a
SCHNEEBERGER representative.

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Sample data sheet for an x-/y- Masses

table mx = kg my = kg mw = kg

Dimensions
S1 = mm S2 = mm S3 = mm
S4 = mm S5 = mm S6 = mm
S7 = mm S8 = mm S9 = mm

K1 = mm K5 = mm
Q2 = mm Q4 = mm

A2 = mm A3 = mm
A4 = mm A6 = mm

L4 = mm L5 = mm L6 = mm

B1 = mm B2 = mm B3 = mm

Stroke (max.)
sx = mm sy = mm

Acceleration (max.)
ax = m/s2 ay = m/s2

Collective load: Forces / Moments

Dimensioning
No. Cycle Fx Fy Fz Mx My Mz
N N N Nm Nm Nm

1
2
3
4
5

Collective load: Travel distance / Proportion of time

x-axis y-axis
No. speed Proportion Travel speed Proportion Travel
of time distance of time distance
v (m/min) t (%) s (mm) v (m/min) t (%) s (mm)

1
2
3
4
5

• 91
 Sample machine drawing for
an x-/y-table

Ballscrew drive

• 92
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

8.5 MONORAIL AutoCAD ® The MONORAIL and AutoCAD library was

library created by SCHNEEBERGER to provide
support for design and developments de-
partments. This library can be used with the
following resources:

Library version 13:

– AutoCAD release 13c2 or higher
– Operating system MS-DOS 3.5 or higher,
Windows 3.1, Windows 95 and
Windows NT
Library version 14:
– AutoCAD release 14c1 or higher
– Operating system Windows 95
and Windows NT

Information: The major specifications of the

selected size is displayed.
Type of insert: Carriage or rail.
Positioning: You can shift the carriages or
rails longitudinally as required.
Drawing: The MONORAILs are drawn in the
selected layer when you quit the program.
When you have made your choice, the pro-
gram automatically returns to AutoCAD and

Dimensioning
you can carry on drawing.
Further use: You can call all AutoCAD com-
mands to edit the MONORAILs that you
have drawn.
The library can be supplied by all SCHNEE-
BERGER companies or representatives
or can be downloaded from our website at
www.schneeberger.com at menu «SERV-
ICES».

MONORAIL BM
The AutoCAD library for MONORAIL BM
is in preparation. Please contact your
SCHNEEBERGER representative.

• 93
 Design and installation
9

9.1 Installation methods MONORAILs can be installed horizontally or vertically. To achieve maximum carriage ri-
gidity, use of all six mounting bolts is necessary.

The MRA/MRB and BMA/BMB car-

riage types can be fastened to the struc-
ture in two ways. They therefore are fitted
with so called combination holes.

a) Using the tapped holes

This is the preferred method. It results in
a stronger joint because the thread per-
mits the use of a larger diameter screw.

b) Using the through-holes

In this case screws with low screw heads
DIN 6912 have to be used in the two mid-
dle attaching holes.
Remove the protective plugs if both mid-
dle attaching holes in the carriage are also
needed.

The MRC/MRD and BMC/BMD car-

riage types can be fastened only by using
the tapped holes. Remove the protective
plugs if the middle attaching holes in the car-
riage are needed.

• 94
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

9.2 Configuration of the locating

surfaces

Methods of lateral fixation MONORAILs can be fastened with or with-

out lateral locating surfaces.
If the MONORAIL is subjected to consider-
able side loads, we recommend the use of
locating surfaces. Fastening can be effected
with clamping screws (illustration on right),
by laterally fixing the rail and carriage with a
clamping strip (below left) or with a taper gib
strip (below right).

Design and installation

• 95
 Configuration The corners between the support and lo-
of the lateral locating sides cating surfaces of the surrounding structure
are normally provided with a relief groove.

r2
However, if no relief groove is provided, then
the dimensions tabulated below must be

h
maintained.

r1
Type Size h r1 max r2 max

MR 25 5 0.8 0.8
35 6 0.8 0.8
45 8 0.8 0.8
55 10 1.2 1.2
65 10 1.5 1.5
BM 15 3.5 0.8 0.6
20 4 0.9 0.9
25 5 1.1 1.1
30 5.5 1.3 1.3
35 6 1.3 1.3
45 8 1.3 1.3

9.3 Configuration MONORAIL advantages can only be achieved when mounted to a rigid, accurately ma-
of assembly surfaces chined structure.
The surface quality of the supporting surfaces has no direct influence on the operational
and run-out behavior. A roughness average ratio of Ra 0.4 to 1.6 µm is recommended for
support and locating surfaces to enable the specified flatness tolerances to be main-
tained.

Inaccuracies of the attachment surfaces are partially compensated by the elastic defor-
mation of the MONORAIL. However, they may affect overall accuracy, running behavior
and operational life.

• 96
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Geometrical and position Permissible height deviations E1 Max. permissible lateral height deviation;
accuracy (use values in mm for the calculation) also includes tolerance for dimension A
of the support surfaces E2 Max. permissible longitudinal height de-
A MONORAIL height viation; also includes tolerance ∆ A
B Carriage width E3 Max. permissible lateral parallelism tol-
B1 Rail width erance of rail supporting surface
K Longitudinal carriage spacing E4 Max. permissible lateral parallelism of
L Carriage length carriage supporting surface
Q Rail spacing E5 Max. permissible longitudinal parallelism
n1 Flatness per carriage of carriage supporting surface
n2 Flatness per rail E6 Flatness of each rail support surface over
entire length as a function of accuracy
class

Preload class
V1 V2 V3

E1 = E1.1 + E1.2 0.0003 Q 0.0002 Q 0.0001 Q

E2 MRA/MRC/BMA/BMC 0.00005 K
E2 MRB/MRD/BMB/BMD 0.00004 K
E3 0.0003 B1 0.0002 B1 0.0001 B1
E4 0.0003 B 0.0002 B 0.0001 B
E5 0.00004 L
E6 Values from diagram 3.3 Running accuracy ∆

Design and installation

The flatness E6 is given as well as the parallelism tolerance to prevent the total permis-
sible tolerance from being accommodated by a single carriage when, for example, four
carriages are running on one rail.

B
E1.2

n1
E4 / B C 0.005
A n2
C
E3 / B1 A E6
E1.1

B1
Q
E2

E5 / L D D

L
K

• 97
 Parallelism tolerances
of the locating surfaces

Tolerances for
preload class (mm) 15 20 25 30 35 45 55 65

V1 0.010 0.012 0.016 0.016 0.021 0.024 0.026 0.028

V2 0.007 0.008 0.010 0.010 0.014 0.016 0.017 0.018
V3 0.003 0.004 0.005 0.005 0.008 0.009 0.010 0.011

The specified values are also valid when locating surfaces are provided for the carriages
only.
Because of parts and mounting tolerances the preload can be increased. Together with
the during the operation arising uneven deformations of the rail surroundings an increased
stress of the rolling partners may occur.

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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Example MONORAIL-System: 2 MR 35-A2-1800-G1-V2

Longitudinal carriage spacing K: K = 800 mm
Rail spacing Q: Q = 450 mm

MONORAIL-height A from chart 4.2: A = 48 mm

Carriage width B from chart 4.2: B = 100 mm
Rail width B1 from chart 4.2 resp. 4.3: B1 = 34 mm
Carriage length L from chart 4.2: L = 109 mm

Values from chart 3.2 dimensional tolerances:

Max. tolerance MONORAIL-height A between two Tol. A = 0.020 mm (standard)
rails for accuracy class G1: Tol. A matched = 0.007 mm
Max. tolerance  A of two carriages on a rail:  A = 0.005 mm

Values from above diagram:

perm. lateral height deviation E1 = 0.0002*Q: E1 = 0.090 mm (incl. Tol. A)
perm. longitudinal height deviation E2 = 0.00005*K: E2 = 0.040 mm (incl.  A)
perm. lateral parallelism rail
supporting surface E3 = 0.0002*B1: E3 = 0.007 mm
perm. lateral parallelism of carriage
supporting surface E4 = 0.0002*B: E4 = 0.020 mm
perm. longitudinal parallelism of carriage
supporting surface E5 = 0.00004*L: E5 = 0.004 mm

Flatness of each rail support surface E6 from chart 3.3

with L3 = 1800 mm and accuracy class G1: E6 = 0.007 mm /1800 mm

Design and installation

Flatness per carriage n1 from picture page 97: n1 = 0.005 mm
Flatness per rail n2: n2 = E6 = 0.007 mm /1800 mm

100
E1.2

n1
0.02 /100 C 0.005
A
48

C n2
0.007/ 34 A 0.007
E1.1

34
450
0.04

0.004/109 D D

109
800

• 99
 Parallelism tolerances of the locating surfaces from chart page 98:  = 0.014 mm

0.014

9.4 Attaching the rails MONORAIL MR, MZ and BM

See the table for the max. tightening torques for attaching screws DIN 912. Values are
based on a coefficient of friction of µ = 0.125.

Attention:


● The recommendations of the screw suppliers have to be followed.
● Screws with low head DIN 6912 are installed according to strength grade 8.8
● For rails with measuring system AMS, screws of strength grade 8.8 have to be used.

Tightening torques for DIN 912 attaching screws, µ = 0.125

Strength Max. tightening torque (Nm)

grade M4 M5 M6 M8 M 10 M 12 M 14 M 16

8.8 3 6 10 24 48 83 132 200

12.9 5 10 16 40 81 95 166 265

A more uniform preload force is obtained when grease containing MoS2 (Molybdenum di-
sulfide) is applied to the rail attaching screws which are then tightened with a torque wrench.
This results in a marked improvement of running accuracy.

Attention:


By using greases, especially greases containing MoS2, the coefficient of friction µ can drop
to half. The torques must be reduced accordingly. It may be necessary to execute field
tests to evaluate the exact coefficient of friction.

Secure the screws in case of expected decreasing of the internal tension.

• 100
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

9.5 Permissible side force The guide values for the maximum permissible side forces can be obtained from the ta-
with no locating surfaces ble below for cases where no locating surfaces are provided. The Fmax values depend
on dynamic load carrying capacity C, the method of fastening the MONORAIL and the
strength grade of screws.

Max. side force Fmax (N) per carriage without locating surfaces
Depending on size and number of attaching screws DIN 912

Strength Fmax (N)

grade M4 M5 M6 M8
4 scr. 6 scr. 4 scr. 6 scr. 4 scr. 6 scr. 4 scr. 6 scr.

8.8 1 250 1 900 2 100 3 150 2 950 4 450 5 400 8 100

12.9 2 150 3 250 3 550 5 300 5 000 7 500 9 200 13 800

Strength Fmax (N)

grade M 10 M 12 M 14 M 16
4 scr. 6 scr. 4 scr. 6 scr. 4 scr. 6 scr. 4 scr. 6 scr.

8.8 8 600 13 000 12 600 19 000 17 300 26 000 23 900 35 800

12.9 14 600 21 900 21 300 32 000 29 300 44 000 40 300 60 400

Max. side force Fmax (N) on the rail without locating surfaces
Depending on the size of the attaching screws DIN 912. The values in the chart indicate

Design and installation

the max. allowed side force of one carriage on the rail and are valid for a standard hole
pitch L4. The values increase accordingly by the use of two or more carriages.

MR Fmax (N)
Strength grade M6 M8 M 12 M 14 M 16

8.8 3 400 6 200 13 900 20 000 29 800

12.9 5 700 10 600 23 500 33 700 50 400

BM Fmax (N)
Strength grade M4 M5 M6 M8 M 12

8.8 450 1 100 1 750 2 850 7 200

12.9 800 1 850 3 000 4 800 12 200

• 101
9.6 Installation guidelines
MONORAIL

Installation instructions The installation of the MONORAIL guideways, distance measuring system and accesso-
ries is described in detail in the
● Installation Instructions MONORAIL (Content: MR, BM) and
● Installation Instructions MONORAIL AMS (Content: MR, AMS).

As delivered condition The SCHNEEBERGER guideways MONORAIL MR, MONORAIL MZ, MONORAIL BM
and MONORAIL AMS are delivered in a suitable packaging and are protected with a cor-
rosion protection coating for transportation:
● Carriages on the rails ready for installation.
● Additional wipers and lubrication plates installed on the carriage.
● Other accessories included in a separate package.
● 2-part steel plugs included in a separate package.
● Cover strip enclosed separate from the rail.
● Standard lubrication connection at the front center in the front plate, or optional
lubrication connections prepared in accordance with the order and closed off with plastic
plugs to prevent the ingress of dirt.
● Lubrication connections not required for use are closed.
● O-rings for the «lubrication connection top» separately packed.
● AMS measuring systems are assembled ready to plug-in.
● Electrical accessories and cables are packed with the mechanics.
● Product related mounting notes and operating instructions are delivered with the prod-
ucts.

Transportation and The MONORAIL guideways and the measuring system are highly precise components,
intermediate storage which have to be treated with care. As a protection against damage, the following in-
structions should be followed:
● Always store and transport MONORAIL guideways in their original packaging.
● Protect the guideways against impacts and dampness / humidity.
● Suspend long rails at several points with a crane during transportation.
● Protect MONORAIL rails with distance measuring systems from magnetic fields and
from mechanical damage. Magnetic fields can destroy the magnetization of the meas-
uring ruler.

Preparation for the ● Check the scope of supply of the components for completeness and with respect to
installation their condition.
● Check the locating sides of the machine bed and mounting plate with regard to correct
shape and locating accuracy in accordance with the guidelines in chapter 9.2 / 9.3 and
if necessary rework them.
● Clean all locating sides thoroughly, remove any burrs and unevennesses with an oil
stone (oil rubber).
● Take care, that the guideways and the mounting base have the same ambient temper-
ature before and during the installation.
● Remove the corrosion protection from carriages and rails.
● Lightly oil the locating sides of the carriages and rails.

• 102
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Installation alternatives Described in the following are four typical installation alternatives (figure 1). These differ
with respect to the location of the locating sides on the machine side and therefore to the
lateral guide. They are described in detail in the separate Mounting Instructions
MONORAIL.

Figure 1: Installation alternative (V 1 .. V 4)

V1 V2

Rail 2 Rail 1 Rail 2 Rail 1

V3 V4

Rail 2 Rail 1 Rail 2 Rail 1

Design and installation

• 103
 Handling the rails When handling the rails, the following has
Figure 2: Alternate rail fixing starting
to be observed:
from the center
● Always place the rails with their locating
side on to the locating side of the mount-
ing base. The locating side of the rail is 14
12
that side of the rail opposite the one with 10
8
the SCHNEEBERGER lettering and the 6
4
type number. 1
2

● Always tighten the fixing screws alter- 5

3

nately starting from the center of the rail, 7

9
or multi-section rails (figure 2). 11
13
● Multi-section rails are numbered and 15
marked on the rail joints (figure 3). Install
the rails in such a way, that the numbers
on the rail joints correspond to each
other. The rail with the number 1 is desig-
nated as the reference rail.
Figure 3: Numbering of the rails and
● When installing multi-section rails without
rail joints in the case of
locating side, press the rail joints together
multisection rails
by means of pins (figure 4). When install-
ing multi-section rails with locating side
always place it on to the locating side of 2.3
4
the mounting base. In both cases, pay 4

attention, that the rails touch. 2.2 1.3

● In the case of MONORAIL AMS, install 3

3
2
2

the rail with the magnetic ruler as the rail 1. 2.1 1.2
You can identify guideways of the type 1
1

MONORAIL AMS by the designation on 1.1

the rail and by the carriage with the scan-

ning head. Reference rail
Note included instructions.

Figure 4: Fixing the rail joint with a

clamping device

• 104
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Handling the carriages For handling the carriages, the following

Figure 5: Use of the mounting rail
rules apply:
during installation work
● Carriages and rails form a unit. Do not
exchange carriages belonging to dif-
ferent rails.This is especially applicable to
matched versions.
● If at all possible, always leave the car-
riages on the rail. For removing a carria-
ge from the rail and when sliding it on
again, always use a mounting rail MRM
in the case of MONORAIL MR (figure 5).
For MONORAIL BM a mounting rail MBM
is recommended to facilitate the installa-
tion. It can be done without it when the
carriages are carefully moved from and
on the rail.
● Protect individual carriages against dirt.
During transportation and storage always
leave the carriages on a mounting rail
MRM, or on the transportation protection
in case of MONORAIL BM, as a protec-
tion against dirt and against the loss of
bearing elements.
● In the case of carriages with a scanning
head, always remove the scanning head
before sliding the carriage on to a mount-

Design and installation

ing rail MRM.
● Always place the locating side of the car-
riages against the locating side on the
slide. The locating side of the carriage is
the side with a ground finish.
● Any retrofitting work on the front plates
for the purpose of changing lubrication
connections should be carried out by
SCHNEEBERGER.

MONORAIL installation ● Prepare the mounting base and the guideways for installation in accordance with the
preceding section.
● Install the MONORAIL guideways depending on the installation alternative in accord-
ance with the Installation Instructions MONORAIL.
● Close the fixing bores of the rails with plugs or steel cover strip, refer to section «In-
stallation Accessories».
● In the case of guideways with a distance measuring system, install the AMS scanning
head, measuring electronics and extension cable in accordance with the Installation
Instructions MONORAIL AMS.
● Slightly rub the rail surface with lubricant.
● If applicable, install the bellows.
 ● Carry out the initial lubrication of the carriage – for this refer to chapter 3.6.

• 105
 Installation accessories The installation of the accessories is de-
Figure 6: Installation of the cover
scribed in detail in the Installation In-
strip
structions MONORAIL. The following
has to be observed:
● MONORAIL MR carriages with additio-
nal wipers ZCN/ZCV on rails with
through holes and without a rail cover
strip are supplied with an installation pro-
tection strip. This strip serves to protect
the sealing lips during the installation
and it must only be removed after the rail
bores have been closed off.
● In the case of single carriages with sheet Picture is valid
metal wipers ASM or ABM, release for MONORAIL BM
the wiper slightly before running it on to
a rail. After running on, adjust the wipers
so that there is a uniform gap in the run-
Figure 7: Installation of the plastic- /
ning surface area. Then tighten the fixing
brass plugs
screws again.
● Install the cover strip MAB or BAB (fig-
ure 6) in accordance with the installation
instructions. In the case of cover strips
in several parts, the individual parts are
marked the same way as the rails. Install
the cover strips so that the rail joints and
cover strip joints are not above one an-
other (do not coincide).
● Support the cover strips during trans-
portation and storage along their whole
length and never let them buckle.
● For the installation of plastic, resp.,
brass plugs, use a hammer with an in-
termediate plate (see figure 7). First place
Figure 8: Installation tool MWH for
the plug on the rail bore. In doing so, pay
2-part steel plugs
attention to the parallel seating of the plug
with respect to the rail surface. First tap
the plug in lightly, check the seating again
and remove any chips produced. There-
after hammer the plug in until it is flush 1
with the rail surface. 2
● Steel plugs MRZ are supplied in two 3
pieces. First place the bushing onto the
screw head, then insert the plug into the
bushing. In doing so, pay attention to the
parallel seating of the plug with respect
to the rail surface. For pressing the plug
in, use the hydraulic installation tool
MWH (see figure 8).
● Install the bellows FBM resp. FBB in 1 Hydraulic installation tool
accordance with the Installation Instruc- 2 Tapered steel plug
tions MONORAIL. 3 Seal ring

• 106
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

AMS installation The installation of the MONORAIL rails with integrated measuring system is described in
the Installation Instructions MONORAIL AMS. In addition, the following remarks
have to be observed:
● Fix the MONORAIL AMS rails against a lateral stop.
● The rails in the case of MONORAIL AMS size 25 can only be attached from underneath.
● For the removal of the scanning head, additional clearance is required, especially in the
case of AMS 25 (at least 2 mm above the scanning head).
● Pay attention to the diameters of the cable plugs (dia 28 mm).

Design and installation

• 107

10
Precautionary Measures

In order to maintain the operability of the MONORAIL guideways during the demanded
service lifetime, the following points must imperatively be noted:


● The MONORAIL linear guideways and the distance measuring system AMS are preci-
sion components. Therefore the guideways during transportation and storage have to
be protected against shocks and humidity and the distance measuring system addi-
tionally against strong magnetic fields.

● The installation of the guideways has to be carried out properly and expertly in accor-
dance with the instructions of the manufacturer; in particular, the rail bores have to be
closed off flush with the rail surface.

● The profile rail guideways have to be adequately supplied with a lubricant, which is suit-
able for the movement and the load profile as well as adapted to the environmental
conditions. For the selection of the lubricant, if so required a lubricant producer should
be directly consulted.

● The compatibility of coolants and lubricants has to be checked and verified by the user,
in order to preclude any detrimental influences on the linear guideway.

● The guideways should be protected against contamination with dirt, hot metal chips
and any direct contact with coolants by means of covers or corresponding installation
positions.

● Depending on the material to be machined, resp., the dirt produced and in cases, where
coolant comes into contact with the linear guideways, it is indispensable, that additional
wipers are installed in front of the front plates. In addition, shorter inspection intervals
are also called for.

● In such case, where the linear guideways come into contact with hot metal chips, in
addition the utilization of metal wipers is recommended.

● The wipers on the ends of the MONORAIL carriages have to be examined for wear at
regular time intervals and if necessary replaced. This is also applicable for additional
wipers.

• 108
SWITZERLAND GERMANY ITALY FRANCE USA
W. Schneeberger AG Schneeberger GmbH Schneeberger S.p.A Schneeberger Schneeberger Inc.
CH-4914 Roggwil / BE 75339 Höfen/Enz 21021 Angera VA Technique Linéaire SARL Bedford, MA 01730
Phone 062 918 41 11 Phone 07081 782-0 Phone 0331 93 20 10 91222 Brétigny-sur-Orge Phone +1 781-271-0140
Fax 062 918 41 00 Fax 07081 782-124 Fax 0331 93 16 55 Phone 01 69 88 50 00 +1 800-854-6333
Fax 01 60 84 96 02 Fax +1 781-275-4749

E-Mail: E-Mail: E-Mail: E-Mail: E-Mail:

info-ch@schneeberger.com info-d@schneeberger.com info-i@schneeberger.com info-f@schneeberger.com info-usa@schneeberger.com
www.schneeberger.com
 L in e a r B e a r in g s T y p e M a n d V
9 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

9.1 L in e a r B e a r in g s T y p e M a n d V

L in e a r B e a r in g s T y p e M a n d V
T y p e M /V lin e a r b e a rin g s a re e q u ip p e d w ith n e e d le c a g e s a n d a re s u ita b le fo r h ig h lo a d
a p p lic a tio n s . T h e SCHNEEBERGER c o m p o s ite c a g e s u s e d w ith th e s e g u id e s e n s u re th a t
th e re is little re s is ta n c e to m o tio n a s c o m p a re d to o th e r s im ila r n e e d le b e a rin g g u id e s ,
w h ile p ro v id in g v e ry g re a t rig id ity.

9.2 M a te r ia l SCHNEEBERGER lin e a r b e a r in g s a re n o rm a lly m a n u fa c tu re d fro m to o l s te e l No . 1 .2 5 1 0

o r 1 .2 8 4 2 . T h e h a rd n e s s is b e tw e e n 5 8 a n d 6 2 HRC, o r m in . 5 4 HRC fo r c e rta in c o rro s io n
re s is ta n t m o d e ls (m a te ria l No . 1 .4 1 2 5 ).
T h e w h o le SCHNEEBERGER ro llin g e le m e n t r a n g e is m a d e g e n e ra lly fro m b e a rin g
s te e l No . 1 .3 5 0 5 . T h e h a rd n e s s is b e tw e e n 5 8 a n d 6 4 HRC o r m in . 5 6 HRC fo r c o rro s io n -
re s is ta n t m o d e ls .

9.3 S p e c ia l v e r s io n T h e c o m p re h e n s iv e s ta n d a rd iz e d p ro g ra m is c o m p le m e n te d a s th e s itu a tio n re q u ire s w ith

s p e c ia l m o d e ls s o th a t e v e ry d e s ire d , te c h n ic a lly o p tim a l d e s ig n c a n b e re a liz e d . W e c a n
s u p p ly c o m p le te s o lu tio n s s p e c ific to th e a p p lic a tio n c o n d itio n s .

• 39
9.4 D imension Table Type M/V

Attaching
hole type G

Attaching
hole type D

Attaching hole type V

Type Siz e A B Dw F J J1 L1 L2 N a d e e1 f g m m1 q t u u1
1) 3)
M/V 3015 30 15 2 10.5 15.5 17 .4 40 5.5 0.7 8.5 M4 M3 5.25 10.5 8 5.5 7 15 7 7
M/V 4020 40 20 2 13.5 22.5 22 2) 80 4) 7 .5 1.3 11.5 M6 M5 7 .5 13.2 10 5.5 8 20 11 10.5
M/V 5 025 50 25 2 17 28 28 2) 80 4) 10 1.3 11.5 M6 M6 7 .5 18.2 12 7 9 15 13 13
M/V 6 035 60 35 2.5 20 35 35.5 100 50 11 1.3 15 M8 M6 10 26 14 8 9 20 20 18
M/V 7 040 70 40 3 24 40 41.5 100 50 13 1.3 18.5 M10 M6 12.5 29 16 10 9 25 20 20
M/V 8 05 0 80 50 3.5 26 45 48 100 50 14 1.3 20 M12 M6 14 37 20 10 9 30 30 25

1) 3)
For length 100 : L1 = 35 (2) min. 15
2) For length 100 : L1 = 50 4) min. 20

Type Siz e Length L Max L

M/V 3015 100 150 200 300 400 500 600 1200
M/V 4020 100 150 200 300 400 500 600 1500
M/V 5 025 100 200 300 400 500 600 7 00 800 9 00 1000 1500
M/V 6 035 200 300 400 500 600 7 00 800 9 00 1000 1500
M/V 7 040 200 300 400 500 600 7 00 800 9 00 1000 1500
M/V 8 05 0 300 400 500 600 7 00 800 9 00 1000 1500
O ther Lengths on request

• 40
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY

Cage SHW Cage HW

Linear Bearings Type M and V

Type Size A ccessories (see also chapter 10) O ptions
Cages Endpieces
SHW HW EM EV EAM EAV SQ SSQ RF EG ZG HA KS

M/V 3015 • • • • • (• ) (• ) (• ) • • •
M/V 4020 • • • • • • (• ) (• ) (• ) • • • •
M/V 5025 • • • • • • (• ) (• ) (• ) • • • •
M/V 6035 • • • • • • (• ) (• ) (• ) • • • •
M/V 7040 • • • • • • (• ) (• ) (• ) • • • •
M/V 8050 • • • • • • (• ) (• ) (• ) • • • •
(• ) Maximum length 600 mm

O rdering information Linear Bearings

Standard Options

Type Size – Length – Additional ordering information

M 5025 – 600 –
SQ Special quality, high requirements 1)
V 5025 – 600 – SSQ Super special quality, most stringent
requirements 1)
RF Corrosion resistant 2)
EG Inlets rounded 3)
ZG Linear Bearings ground together 1)
HA Of Height Matched Linear Bearings in
pairs 1)
KS Integrated cage assist
Order information

2 Linear Bearings Type M 5025-600

2 Linear Bearings Type V 5025-600
2 Needle Cages SHW 15 x 500 mm
4 Endpieces Type GFN 5025 1) see chapter 15.1
4 Endpieces Type GFO 5025 2) see chapter 15.2
3) see chapter 16.7

• 41
 Accessories Type N /O and M/V
10

10.1 C ages N eedle C age Type SH W , Sizes 15– 30

– For all types of fitting
– Captive needles
– Material plastic P A 12 GF 30% / Stain-
less steel composite

The needle cages are supplied in one

piece in the customer specified length K.

Type Size Dw Lw e t w C / Needle Suitable for Max.

in N Linear Bearings Type Length

SH W 15 2 6.8 14 4 2.9 750 N/O 92025 and 2025 M /V 4025 and 5025 1500
SH W 20 2.5 9.8 19 4.75 3.4 1375 N/O 2535 M /V 6035 1500
SH W 25 3 13.8 25 5.2 3.6 2350 N/O 3045 M /V 7040 1500
SH W 30 3.5 17.8 30 6.1 4.3 3600 N/O 3555 M /V 8050 1500

Ordering example: 2 Needle cages SHW 20  402 mm length

N eedle C age Type H W , Sizes 10– 30

– For all types of fitting
– Captive needles
– Material: Light metal; HW 10: steel

Type Size Dw Lw e t w C / Needle Suitable for Max.

in N Linear Bearings Type Length

H W 10 2 4.8 10 4 3 530 M /V 3015 2000

H W 15 2 6.8 14 4.5 3.5 750 M /V 4020 and 5025 2000
H W 16 2 8.8 16 3.8 2.8 970 M /V 5025 2000
H W 20 2.5 9.8 20 5.5 4 1375 M /V 6035 2000
H W 25 3 13.8 25 6 4.5 2350 M /V 7040 2000
H W 30 3.5 17.8 30 7 5 3600 M /V 8050 2000

• 42