Functions of Guideways

The Guideway is one of the significant elements of machine tool. The major function of the guideway is to ensure that the cutting tool or machine tool operative element moves along predetermined path. The machine tool operative element carries work-piece with it. The motion is usually circular for boring mills, vertical lathe, etc. whereas it is straight line for lathe, drilling, boring machines, etc.

Needs of guideways are:

(1)  Guideway should comprise high rigidity.

(2)  The surface of guideways must contain greater accuracy and surface finish.

(3)  Guideways should have high accuracy of travel. It is probable only when the deviation of the actual path of travel of the operative element from the predetermined normal path is minimum.

(4) Guideways have to be durable.The durability depends on the ability of guideways to retain the initial accuracy of manufacturing and travel.

(5) The frictional forces acting on the guideway surface have to be low to avoid wear.

(6) There should be minimum possible variation of coefficient of friction.

(7) Guideways should comprise good damping properties.