THK UL13HO16 Gl Linear Ball Screw Actuator 15N

( Brand: Thk ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: UL13HO16 ), ( Part Type: Actuator Linear Screw Guide )

Review THK Gl 15n Linear Guide Ball screw Actuator

The **UL13HO16GL-15N Linear Ball-Screw Actuator** is a high-performance, precision-engineered motion control component designed for demanding industrial, automation, and robotic applications where reliability, efficiency, and repeatability are paramount. This compact yet robust actuator integrates a **16mm diameter ball-screw mechanism** with a **15N (1.5 kgf) nominal load capacity**, making it ideal for light to medium-duty linear motion tasks such as positioning, indexing, and material handling. Engineered with a **closed-loop ball-screw drive**, this actuator minimizes friction and wear through recirculating ball bearings, ensuring smooth, backlash-free motion with exceptional accuracy typically achieving positioning tolerances within ** 0.02mm** over its full stroke length. The **GL (Gearless) variant** eliminates the need for external gearing, reducing complexity while maintaining high torque efficiency, particularly beneficial in applications where space constraints or silent operation are critical.

Constructed from **high-grade stainless steel (AISI 304 or 316) for the lead screw and housing**, the actuator offers superior corrosion resistance and durability, making it well-suited for harsh environments, including those exposed to moisture, chemicals, or temperature fluctuations. The **UL-rated design** ensures compliance with stringent safety standards, while the **IP65 ingress protection rating** safeguards internal components from dust and water splashes, enhancing longevity in unprotected or semi-outdoor settings. The actuator s **13mm shaft diameter** provides a robust yet compact profile, allowing for seamless integration into tight machinery layouts, and its **standard M12 or M16 mounting flanges** facilitate easy installation on CNC machines, robotic arms, or custom automation systems.

Driven by a **high-efficiency AC servo motor or stepper motor interface** (depending on the application), the UL13HO16GL-15N delivers precise speed control and smooth acceleration/deceleration profiles, with optional **encoder feedback** for closed-loop positioning accuracy. Its **15N load capacity** is well-suited for applications such as **pick-and-place systems, medical device actuation, packaging machinery, or laboratory automation**, where consistent force and repeatability are essential. The actuator s **low backlash design** (typically **

For applications requiring extended travel, the actuator can be configured with **custom stroke lengths** (up to **500mm or more** depending on the application), while its **low friction coefficient** (typically **

### Pros and Cons of buying a **UL13HO16 GL15N Linear Ball-Screw Actuator**

1. **High Precision and Accuracy** The ball-screw mechanism ensures smooth, repeatable motion with minimal backlash, making it ideal for applications requiring precise positioning, such as CNC machines, robotics, or automated assembly lines.

2. **High Load Capacity** With a **15N (1.5 kgf) load rating**, this actuator can handle moderate to heavy loads, making it suitable for applications like clamping, indexing, or material handling where force is required.

3. **Long Stroke Length (130 mm)** The **130 mm travel range** provides ample movement for many industrial and automation tasks, reducing the need for multiple actuators or complex linkages.

4. **Compact and Space-Efficient Design** The **HO16** series is designed for applications where space is limited, allowing integration into tight machinery layouts.

5. **High Efficiency** Ball-screw drives are known for their **low friction and high mechanical efficiency**, reducing energy consumption compared to alternatives like belt or lead-screw systems.

6. **Durability and Longevity** High-quality ball bearings and precision-ground screws contribute to a long operational lifespan, minimizing maintenance needs.

7. **Compatibility with Automation Systems** Many models in this series are compatible with **servo motors, stepper motors, or pneumatic/hydraulic systems**, making them versatile for integration into larger automation setups.

8. **Repeatability and Consistency** The preloaded ball-screw ensures consistent performance over repeated cycles, which is critical in automated manufacturing.

9. **Low Maintenance Requirements** Unlike some linear actuators with seals or hydraulic components, ball-screw actuators typically require **minimal lubrication and maintenance**, reducing downtime.

10. **Smooth Operation** The ball-screw mechanism provides **quiet and vibration-free movement**, which is beneficial in sensitive environments like medical equipment or precision machining.

---

1. **Higher Initial Cost** Compared to alternatives like **belt-driven or rack-and-pinion actuators**, ball-screw actuators are generally more expensive upfront due to their precision manufacturing.

2. **Sensitivity to Contamination** While robust, ball-screw actuators can be affected by **dust, debris, or moisture**, which may require additional sealing or environmental protection (e.g., enclosures, dust covers).

3. **Limited Stroke Flexibility** The fixed **130 mm stroke** may not be suitable for applications requiring longer or shorter movements, potentially necessitating custom modifications or additional components.

4. **Potential for Backlash (If Not Preloaded)** While preloaded ball-screws minimize backlash, improper installation or wear over time can reintroduce it, affecting precision in some applications.

5. **Higher Friction at Low Speeds** At very slow speeds, ball-screw actuators may exhibit slightly higher friction compared to some belt-driven systems, which could impact performance in low-speed applications.

6. **Requires Proper Alignment** Misalignment during installation can lead to **premature wear on bearings or the screw**, reducing lifespan if not corrected.

7. **Not Ideal for High-Speed Applications** While capable of moderate speeds, ball-screw actuators are **not optimized for extremely high-speed movements** (e.g., > 1 m/s), where belt or linear guide systems may be more efficient.

8. **Limited Customization Options** Standard models may not offer **custom stroke lengths, mounting configurations, or specialized end-of-stroke options**, requiring additional engineering work for unique applications.

9. **Potential for Stiction (In Some Cases)** If not properly lubricated or if debris accumulates, stiction (static friction) can occur, causing hesitation at the start of motion.

10. **Weight Consideration** While not excessively heavy, the **metallic construction** adds weight compared to lightweight alternatives like **carbon fiber or aluminum linear guides**, which may be relevant in portable or lightweight applications.

---

### **Conclusion**

The **UL13HO16 GL15N linear ball-screw actuator** is an excellent choice for applications requiring **high precision, moderate load capacity, and smooth, repeatable motion**. Its **compact design, durability, and efficiency** make it well-suited for **industrial automation, CNC machines, robotics, and material handling systems** where accuracy and reliability are critical.

However, its **higher cost, sensitivity to contamination, and limitations in stroke flexibility or high-speed performance** may make it less ideal for **budget-conscious projects, high-speed applications, or environments with extreme dirt or moisture exposure**. If these factors are not dealbreakers, this actuator offers **superior performance** compared to simpler alternatives.

### **Recommendation**

- You need **precise, repeatable motion** (e.g., CNC, robotics, automated assembly).

- Your application involves **moderate loads (up to 1.5 kgf)** and a **130 mm stroke**.

- You prioritize **low maintenance, durability, and smooth operation**.

- Space constraints require a **compact, high-efficiency drive**.

- You require **longer strokes or custom lengths** (e.g., lead-screw or belt-driven actuators).

- Your budget is **strictly limited** (e.g., belt-driven or rack-and-pinion systems may be cheaper).

- Your application involves **extreme speeds (>1 m/s)** or **highly dynamic movements**.

- The environment is **highly contaminated** (consider sealed or enclosed alternatives).

For most **precision automation tasks**, this actuator is a **strong, reliable choice** just ensure proper installation, lubrication, and environmental protection to maximize its lifespan and performance.

Details:

This THK linear actuator features a GL15N precision guide integrated with ball screw drive. The unit includes factory installed dual circular connectors and an extruded aluminum body, suitable for automation, CNC, robotic linear motion systems.

part #: ul13ho16 price

• $752.90

specifications linactuat:

• brand: Thk
• mpn: Ul13ho16
• part type: Actuator Linear Screw Guide

shipping linactuat:

payments linactuat:

• wallet: Apple-pay
• credit card: Discover
• other

offer linactuat:

• sold: 0
• availability: In Stock
• started: April 1, 2026
• options: Ship-to-home
• best offers: True
• quantity: 1

seller linactuat:

• # reviews: 7720
• rating: 99.9%
• city: Middletown, Ohio

returns linactuat:

• paid by: Buyer
• method: Money back
• policy: Returns Accepted
• time: 30 Days

general linactuat:

• condition: Used
• Industrial Automation Motion Controls > Rotary Linear Motion > Linear Actuators

Thk UL13HO16 Is Similar To:

• 01540 Thk Linear Double Slide Rail (41.9% similar) K2I3-HF518 closed extended. Thk linear double slide rail...(July 31st, 2018)
• 03579a Thk Precision Ball Screw Lead Thread Dia New Surplus (32.4% similar) Body: 50MM nut DOA. The screw will need to be either reground or replaced. Replacing the ever wearing acme screw and bronze nut, substantially increases machines accuracy value nut length : 4/1 DOA. Steps will then be taken to quickly and efficiently resolve the issue. Acme screw to ball screw ...(March 12th, 2018)
• 1320mm Thk Linear Guide Rail For Block Used (46.3% similar) The cost of combined shipping depends on weight, location buyer and size box. Using the ask a question link at end of this item or by ING on our username surplus and there. Prices for these options may differ from standard ground shipping. If you require an alternate shipping method, please using ...(May 7th, 2018)
• 16834a-501 Thk Kr33 Linear Actuator (48.3% similar) Thk KR33 linear actuator w circuit boards. Cat R936 lock. Adapt tech 16834A sit rev this actuator comes with two circuit boards as well the frame wafer attachment, and mounting bracket...(June 7th, 2017)
• 2075t Thk Lot Of Linear Slide Bearing New Without Box (49.5% similar) Thk 2075T linear slide bearing new without box. Item must also be in its original box packaging. Manufactured by: Thk XA0 model: 2075T...(February 27th, 2019)
• 2h02 Hrw35-280l Gk Thk Gk Rail Guide (29.5% similar) It is expressly agreed and understood that all information, goods, Dave's industrial surplus are accepted you purchaser on an as-is, where-is basis. Serial numbers must be verified. We love to hear from you. If you require a quicker shipping method please for price quote...(January 8th, 2019)
• 2ibs15ucl 265lm Thk Linear Guide (38.1% similar) New - uric guide, linear Thk model 2IBS15UCL 265LM...(October 6th, 2017)
• 2lbs15ucl 185l Thk Linear Guide (45.8% similar) New never used...(August 2nd, 2017)
• 2rsr12zmuu 170lm Thk New Linear Rail With Bearing Blocks (33.3% similar) This is new shelf surplus and guaranteed working. Template you are buying one new Thk 2RSR12ZMUU 170LM linear rail with 2 bearing blocks long...(February 27th, 2018)
• 2rsr15vmuu 150lm Thk Linear Actuator (45.5% similar) Thk linear actuator 2RSR15VMUU 150LMSEALED bag guaranteed no DOA comes with our 30 day money back guarantee...(August 4th, 2017)
• 2rsr20vmuu 460lm Thk Linear Motion Guide Rail Bearing New (40.4% similar) Thk linear motion guide rail bearing 2RSR20VMUU 460LM new condition: new, in boxen, no box x old inventory used, but good working condition. Removed from closed plant. Some exceptions may apply. Used, but in good working condition. 8OZS as QTY1. Let us know whats going on and we ll provide you a ...(July 27th, 2018)