Hello, mechatronics enthusiasts!

Welcome to this new post on the SINADRIVES blog.

May 2025

At SINADRIVES, we understand that choosing between a linear axis with one guide or one with two guides is a critical decision when designing industrial automation systems. This choice directly affects the system’s performance, reliability, and longevity. Below, we provide a technical comparison of both options so you can make an informed decision based on your application’s specific needs.

Single-guide axes are ideal when a compact and high-speed solution is needed in applications where space is limited and loads are moderate. This type of system offers high speed and low maintenance costs, making it an excellent choice for environments that require lightweight, high-frequency motion.

Technical features:

• Lightweight and compact design: A single rail and carriage allow for a smaller, more easily integrated system.

• Reduced weight: Ideal for applications where moving mass must be kept to a minimum.

• Precise movement: Perfect for applications requiring high repeatability and where motion accuracy is a key factor.

Recommended applications:

• Pick-and-place systems for fast, repetitive assembly tasks.

• Automated dispensing devices in the pharmaceutical or food industries.

• Process automation in assembly lines with high operating frequencies.

With just one guide, linear axes allow for easier installation and faster commissioning—key advantages when implementation time is critical.

Dual-guide axes provide additional support that increases structural rigidity and improves the stability of the system. This configuration is particularly useful when the system must handle larger loads or longer travel distances without compromising precision. By incorporating two guides, the system distributes loads more evenly and reduces the risk of deformation, ensuring more stable and accurate motion.

Technical features:

• Greater rigidity and stability: Thanks to the dual-guide design, axes are more resistant to twisting and deflection.

• Long-range precision: Improved repeatability and control in long strokes or off-center loads.

• High load capacity: Capable of supporting significantly heavier loads while maintaining optimal performance under demanding conditions.

Recommended applications:

• CNC machines and laser cutting systems requiring high levels of precision and load handling.

• Industrial robotic systems for material handling with heavy loads and complex trajectories.

• Inspection platforms in the automotive or electronics industries, where accuracy is critical.

• Automated logistics systems in warehouses, for pallet and heavy material handling.

Dual-guide axes are ideal for applications requiring greater precision and stability over long distances or in harsh working conditions.

One of the key factors to consider when choosing between a single-guide or dual-guide axis is the relationship between speed and precision:

• Single-guide axes: They are generally faster and can achieve higher linear speeds due to their lower moving mass. Additionally, because of their simpler design, single-guide axes allow for considerably lower torque moments, making them ideal for applications where torsional stresses are minimal and fast, lightweight motion is required.

• Dual-guide axes: Although slightly slower due to their higher mass and rigidity, dual-guide axes provide greater precision and repeatability, making them ideal for high-precision applications and off-center loads. Their increased rigidity allows them to handle higher torque moments, which makes them more suitable for applications involving heavy loads or complex trajectories.

Durability and maintenance requirements are also crucial factors to consider:

• Single-guide axes: Being simpler, they require less maintenance, but wear on guides and transmission components may be higher if used in high or continuous load conditions.

• Dual-guide axes: While they require regular maintenance due to the complexity of their components, their greater robustness ensures a longer lifespan in applications with heavy loads or harsh conditions.

At SINADRIVES, we offer sealing options and lubrication systems optimized to increase the lifespan of both types of axes.

At SINADRIVES, we don’t just supply standard components; we offer customized solutions that integrate linear axes with other automation systems such as electric actuators, high-precision motors, and modular structures.

Our engineering team conducts specific studies for each application, evaluating factors such as:

• Dynamic and static load.

• Required speed and acceleration.

• Operating environment (extreme temperatures, humid conditions, dust, etc.).

• Precision and repeatability requirements.

Through simulations and advanced calculation tools, we help you choose the optimal configuration to maximize performance and reliability of the system.

The choice between a single-guide linear axis or a dual-guide linear axis largely depends on the specific application and system requirements:

• If you need agility, a compact design, and high speed in environments with moderate loads, the single-guide axis will be the most suitable option.

• If your application requires precision, rigidity, and the ability to handle higher loads or long travel distances, the dual-guide axis is the best option.

At SINADRIVES, we ensure to provide you with the best solution for your project, offering specialized technical advice and high-quality components. Do you have doubts about which option is best for you? Contact us, and our experts will help you choose the system that optimizes your production.