For maximum resilience

In both manufacturing environments and automated systems, linear axes are exposed to various mechanical stresses. In addition to coarse dirt, the accidental dropping of small parts—such as during assembly or maintenance work—poses a particular risk. To prevent foreign objects from entering the axis while simultaneously providing protection against accidental contact, Igus has developed the drylin linear axes ZLX-806016-PT and SLX-806016-PT.

Thanks to a fully integrated metal cover, these units form a completely enclosed, robust, and easy-to-install system that reliably protects the guide, bearing, and drive components. They are suitable for use in workspaces, machine enclosures, or automation solutions, as well as for applications in publicly accessible areas where accessibility and trouble-free continuous operation are required.

In many applications, coarse dirt and lost small parts—such as screws, tablets, or tools—lead to increased risk, unplanned downtime, and rising maintenance costs. If such parts cannot be located, the machine often cannot be restarted. To solve precisely this problem, Igus has developed the new drylin ZLX- and SLX-Protect linear axes. They reliably keep contaminants away from the internal mechanics.

"The integrated metal cover strip completely shields the guide and protects the bearing and drive components from external influences, such as falling small parts or dirt. Such a cover proves particularly valuable when used in close proximity to metalworking operations, such as welding, cutting, or grinding," explains Michael Hornung, Product Manager for drylin Linear and Drive Technology at Igus. At the same time, the cover significantly reduces the risk of injury to personnel by providing effective protection against accidental contact. With this metal cover, the company addresses the needs of its customers in the fields of automation technology, mechanical engineering, and conveying and packaging technology.

Maximum design freedom thanks to the drylin W high-profile

The linear axes utilize a drylin W high-profile made of clear-anodized aluminum, resulting in a robust and completely enclosed linear unit. The linear axes are designed to help users save on assembly time; they can be mounted directly onto standard aluminum structural profiles using standard brackets from commercial suppliers—without the need for adapters. "Thanks to its groove geometry, the high-profile offers maximum design freedom. It can be mounted in a cantilevered configuration, is compatible with standard modular profile systems, and is ideally suited for integrating additional components," emphasizes Michael Hornung. As part of its modular system, igus supplies a range of accessories—including handwheels, position indicators, clamping levers, motors, and controllers—as well as pre-assembled carriage variants in three different lengths. The service life of the axis can be calculated prior to purchase using the drylin online tools.

Lubrication-free, low-noise, and dirt-resistant

In 2024, igus launched the drylin ZLX—a high-performance series of toothed-belt axes—which is deployed in applications such as automated production lines, pick-and-place systems, and 3D printers. The drylin ZLX offers a maximum load capacity of 150 N and speeds of up to 3 m/s. The drylin SLX followed in 2025 as the lead-screw-driven variant. It is designed to handle radial loads of up to 500 kg, can lift loads of up to 100 kg, and offers versatile application potential—including in logistics, robotics, and packaging technology production cells.

Inside the ZLX and SLX axes, a linear plain guide from the drylin W series is at work; the carriage travels along linear plain liners or lead-screw nuts made from the high-performance polymer iglidur J200. Solid lubricants embedded in the material ensure low-friction dry operation. As a result, operation is exceptionally quiet, resistant to dirt, and maintenance-free throughout the entire service life. Consequently, these axes are also well-suited for public-facing applications involving continuous operation—ranging from scanning systems at airport customs checkpoints to self-service terminals in restaurants or supermarkets.

A complete solution from a single source

drylin linear axes assist design engineers in enhancing the operational reliability of their applications while simultaneously reducing maintenance costs. Thanks to their design, these axes integrate seamlessly—both functionally and aesthetically—with standard mechanical engineering profiles, thereby ensuring a uniform overall appearance. Michael Hornung notes: “Upon request, we can supply the linear axes ready for immediate installation, complete with motors and controllers—including stepper, EC/BLDC, and DC motors. Alternatively, motors from other manufacturers can also be connected.”