How long will Linear Slides last? We tested them past 80,000 cycles — find out how they performed

The 1696 Block and 1697 Linear Track  functions like a drawer slide, but it works without a roller.

The Guide Block slides in the Track, allowing it to slide forward and back freely.

We conducted a test to find out the capability of a set of Guide Block and Track when used together.

The setup was 4 Linear Slide sets fitted to a tray of 40kg load. Each Guide Block and Track set bears approximately 10kg load. The machine was set to slide the tray open and closed at a fixed speed.

*Note: The scratch marks on the track are from a grinder. We used this to decrease the height of the screws so they didn’t impede the block.

At 15,000, a powder-like substance can be seen forming on the inner parts of the track. This is caused over time by the friction on the guide block.

As we go further along in the test, more shavings can be seen gathering in the track’s sliding pathway. At 28000 cycles more dust has gathered.

At 40,000 cycles, shavings are seen on the track. At this point even the track itself can be seen to have worn off especially at the edges of the track.  

At 89,000 cycles, the guide block has a lot shaved off from friction but was still able to work as it should. The bottom part seems to have been shaved more than the top part. The plastic shavings gathered more on the sides of the Guide Blocks.

Note that this test is continuous, meaning the push and pull action is non-stop. This can cause a build-up of additional of heat from consistent friction. Even in these conditions, it could operate up to 89,000 cycles.