Rodless screw actuator
NSK Toughcarrier TCH rodless screw actuator
High-load single-axis actuator that uses rollers instead of balls in the guide, with load ratings and rigidity more than double a standard Monocarrier and interchangeable with the Monocarrier MCH.
Key specifications
| Screw type | Ball screw |
|---|---|
| Guide | Roller guide |
Summarised in our own words from NSK Ltd.'s published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1
Notes on this data
Numeric ratings not published on the data sheet page.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with NSK Ltd.. NSK and Toughcarrier TCH are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures
Engineers often come to us with a NSK part number and leave with an alternative that is easier to source, quicker to deliver or a better fit for the machine. These 3 series from our supply network are the closest match on published figures.
Screw-driven rodless actuator with recirculating ball-bearing guidance integral to the extrusion, so it carries loads up to 35.6 kN (with carrier options) without external guides.
View B3S Screw-Drive Rodless →Economical rodless screw actuator derived from the BC2 band cylinder, with solid-bearing rods and a stainless band seal for light to moderate loads.
View BCS Rodless Screw (BCS/MCS) →Screw-driven rodless actuator in six sizes, with a solid-bearing (S) or profiled-rail (P) carrier for moderate to heavy guided loads.
View MXE Screw-Drive Rodless (MXE-S / MXE-P) →Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What a rodless screw actuator is
A rodless screw actuator moves a carriage along the actuator body using a ball or lead screw inside a profile. The load mounts directly on the carriage, which runs on guides, either internal bearings or profile rails, so the actuator carries and guides the load as well as moving it. A sealing band typically closes the slot along the body. The motor mounts at one end, inline or folded, and stroke is set by the body length.
When engineers choose a rodless screw actuator
Choose a rodless screw actuator when the load needs carrying along a guided path with good positioning accuracy and stiffness, such as in pick-and-place, gantries and positioning axes. Screw drive gives high thrust and precision. The trade-offs are speed and length: long screws hit critical speed limits, so long strokes run slower. For long, fast strokes with lighter loads, a belt-driven rodless actuator is usually better.
How to specify the NSK Toughcarrier TCH
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right Toughcarrier TCH variant or an equivalent:
- Payload mass and position offset (kg, mm)
- Moment loads on the carriage (Nm)
- Stroke (mm), speed (mm/s) and acceleration (m/s²)
- Thrust force needed (N)
- Repeatability (mm)
- Orientation: horizontal, vertical or wall-mounted
- Environment and sealing (IP code)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring moment loads from offset payloads
- Choosing a long stroke at high speed and exceeding screw critical speed
- Not adding a brake for vertical axes
- Assuming the sealing band keeps out fine dust or liquids
NSK Toughcarrier TCH: frequently asked questions
What is the NSK Toughcarrier TCH?
High-load single-axis actuator that uses rollers instead of balls in the guide, with load ratings and rigidity more than double a standard Monocarrier and interchangeable with the Monocarrier MCH. It is made by NSK Ltd.; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the NSK Toughcarrier TCH?
The NSK Toughcarrier TCH is made by NSK (NSK Ltd.) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with NSK Ltd.; brand names are used only to identify the product.
Is there an alternative to the NSK Toughcarrier TCH?
Yes. On published figures, Tolomatic B3S Screw-Drive Rodless and Tolomatic BCS Rodless Screw (BCS/MCS) are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
Is a belt or screw rodless actuator better?
A screw rodless actuator gives more thrust, stiffness and positioning accuracy, which suits pressing, vertical axes and precise positioning. A belt actuator is faster and handles longer strokes, which suits transfer and pick-and-place over distance. Many machines use both: belts for long horizontal moves and screws for shorter, precise or vertical axes.
What limits the speed of a screw-driven actuator?
Speed is limited by the screw's critical speed, the rotation at which it starts to whip. Critical speed falls sharply as unsupported length increases, so long strokes have lower maximum speeds. Screw supports, larger diameters or a coarser lead raise usable speed. Manufacturers publish speed against stroke curves that should be checked.
Further reading: Rodless belt vs screw actuators · How to size a linear actuator · Linear actuators
Other rodless screw actuator series
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