Look inside a CNC machine, and you’ll find sophisticated recirculating ball linear bearings performing the mission-critical motion tasks. But when you go beyond the spindle and essential cutting or milling components, you’ll find auxiliary axes that don't have the high accuracy and precision requirements that are typically prescribed for expensive motion components.

When an automated industrial application calls for a rail system, designers often turn to steel rails and components for their durability. However, there are many heavy-duty use cases where linear guides with aluminum construction are a better option than steel guides. Here are some of the reasons you should consider aluminum rail systems.