Cam followers and roller followers - basic knowledge and intended use

From conveyor systems to robot-controlled production lines, cam followers enable the effortless movement of loads. A smooth process in industrial manufacturing and material handling depends on efficient and precise movement systems. Cam followers and roller followers play a decisive role here. Here, cam followers and roller followers ensure reliable guidance of linear movement. In this blog article, we dive into the basic knowledge of these components and examine their intended use in industrial practice.

Cam followers and roller followers are components used in systems and machine tools to guide the movement of parts, workpieces or tools. Both components are widely used in industry due to their high precision, high robustness and low friction. Even if cam followers and roller followers have a wide field of application, coated track rollers are usually used in conveyor technology.

What are roller followers?

Roller followers are based on roller bearings and are able to absorb both high radial loads and axial loads. Axial loads can arise, for example, due to misalignment or skewed running. The permissible axial load depends on the profiling of the outer ring and the rolling element used.

Roller followers are also available in versions with or without an inner ring, which means they either use the axis itself as a rolling surface or the inner ring, which is mounted on an axis.

Basic knowledge about cam followers

Cam followers are special roller followers that can be sealed on both sides and have an axial guide. They are equipped with an axle bolt, which can be used to fasten to adjacent machine components.

The cam follower surfaces can be made of different materials for certain applications.

Can followers or roller followers - How do they differ?

Cam followers and roller followers differ in how they are fastened and how they are designed. NSome differences are explained in more detail below:

• Cam rollers can be easily and compactly mounted due to their solid roller stud. Its thick-walled outer ring can absorb both high radial and axial loads. Roller followers do not have a roller stud, but are mounted on a suitable axle bolt. Both cam followers and roller followers are designed for rolling on counter rollers.
• Cam followers with cylindrical roller bearings are designed for permanent, higher loads, for example, whereas variants with cage guides are suitable for higher radial loads and higher speeds. Roller followers can absorb very high - even abrupt - radial loads due to their thick-walled outer ring.
• Roller followers are suitable for applications primarily involving the support and stabilisation of loads, such as in lifting equipment or conveyor belts. Cam followers are also used in applications where precise steering or manoeuvring is required, as well as in environments with restricted space conditions. They are used in cam gear units, guide tracks or automated production lines.
• Cam followers and roller followers can be made from different materials. The material has a direct influence on the characteristics and the resistance of the rollers. Different factors must be taken into account when selecting the material depending on the application requirements, including load-bearing capacity, environmental conditions, shock absorption or wear behaviour.

Efficient use of cam followers and roller followers

In order to achieve the best possible performance, it is important that mechanical engineers select the right component for the respective purpose. Linear movements and cornering movements can be realised with cam followers and roller followers, which is why they play a very important role in conveyor systems.

Some examples of applications in special machine construction are:

• Packaging machines: Cam followers and roller followers are often used in packaging systems to transport goods for the further packaging process. They ensure smooth handling of materials, thus increasing the efficiency of the packaging process.
• Conveyor systems for heavy loads: In assembly lines and production facilities, cam followers and roller followers support the smooth transport of materials and components, even if the systems are exposed to enormous weight loads. Roller followers are used to carry these loads and support the conveyor belt.
• Automated storage systems and logistics systems: In automated warehouses and logistics centres, cam followers and roller followers facilitate the transport and distribution of the most various goods. They ensure that conveyor belts remain on track and do not deflect to the side.
• Robot systems:[/ In robot systems, cam followers support the mobility and flexibility of the robots, and enable precise direction control, especially when cornering. Roller followers, for example, provide additional stability when moving and positioning moving parts or loads.

Example application

The 8-position index table is used to rotate the workpiece in different positions during processing.This enables efficient and precise processing of the workpiece in several operations.

Regularly service cam followers and roller followers

Cam followers and roller followers are relatively easy to service, which is why they are commonly used in various industrial areas.

Please observe the following maintenance tasks for rollers:

• Regular cleaning of roller surfaces and running tracks is important to remove dirt, dust or other contaminants that could impair functionality.
• The introduction of lubricants into lubrication holes of the roller bearings helps to reduce friction and extend the service life of the rollers. This is especially important to prevent unwanted noise and excessive wear.Always follow the individual information provided by the lubricant manufacturer.
• The correct alignment of the rollers is crucial to ensure a smooth and efficient movement of the loads. FIf necessary, the alignment should be adjusted.