Linear Slide Guide KP15-KP20
What Are Linear Slide Guide?
Linear slide guides (also called linear guide rails or linear motion guides) are precision mechanical systems enabling controlled, low-friction linear movement along a single axis. They are fundamental components in automation, robotics, and machinery requiring high accuracy, rigidity, and repeatability.
Core Components:
Rail: A hardened, precisely ground steel track mounted to the machine base. It features precision raceways.
Block (Carriage/Slider): The moving unit that travels along the rail. It contains:
Recirculating Bearings: Balls or rollers that roll along the rail's raceways.
Recirculation Path: Internal channels allowing the bearings to circulate continuously within the block.
Seals/Wipers: Protect bearings from contamination and retain lubrication.
Lubrication Points: For maintenance.
How They Work:
The bearings roll between the block and the rail's raceways. As the block moves, the bearings continuously recirculate through internal return paths inside the block, enabling smooth, continuous, and long-travel linear motion.
Key Advantages:
High Precision & Repeatability: Deliver extremely straight and accurate motion.
Low Friction: Rolling resistance is significantly less than sliding contact, reducing drive power and heat.
High Rigidity & Load Capacity: Withstand substantial forces (radial, reverse radial, moment loads) with minimal deflection.
Smooth Motion: Essential for high speeds and sensitive processes.
Long Life & Durability: Hardened steel construction and recirculating design ensure longevity when maintained.
Compact Design: Provide high performance efficiently.
Applications:
Linear slide guides are critical in:
CNC machine tools (mills, lathes)
Industrial robots
Semiconductor manufacturing
Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs)
Laser cutters/engravers
Precision automation, assembly, and packaging lines
Medical imaging equipment
Keenpa Linear Slide Guide Model Numbering System
Confused by complex part numbers? Our intuitive linear slide guide model numbering system puts the power of precision at your fingertips!
Each digit and letter is engineered for clarity:
Series: Instantly identifies the core technology (e.g., ball, roller).
Size: Specifies rail width and load capacity.
Type: Denotes standard, flanged, or compact blocks.
Length/Stroke: Clearly indicates block length or required rail length.
Accuracy Grade: Highlights precision level (Standard, High, Precision).
Preload: Shows internal clearance setting.
Sealing: Defines protection level (standard, high-seal).
Simplify selection! Our logical numbering ensures you quickly find the perfect guide for your speed, rigidity, and accuracy needs. Experience effortless specification – unlock precision motion today!
KP - W - 9 - C - E - 1 - R -1000 - E - C - ZF - CS - 5/5
KP: Product series (KP Series)
W: Wide type (No marking = Standard type)
9: Size specification
C: Standard length (L = Long, S = Short)
E: Special slider processing (No marking = Standard)
1: Number of sliders per rail
R1000: Rail length (1000mm)
E: Special rail processing (No marking = Standard)
C: Accuracy grade (C/H/P)
ZF: Preload level (ZF/Z0/Z1, default = Z0)
CS: Material – Bearing steel (SS = Stainless steel)
5/5: Rail pitch (short spacing)
Linear Slide Guide Key Specifications And Sizes
Think Small, Move Perfectly: Miniature Linear Slide Guides Engineered to Excel!
Demanding big performance in tiny spaces? Our ultra-compact linear slide guides (3mm to 20mm wide) deliver unmatched precision for micro-automation, lab tech, and electronics:
Size Range: 3mm, 5mm, 7mm,9mm, 12mm, 15mm, 20mm rails
High Loads: Up to 1.2kN dynamic load (15mm size)
Zero Backlash: Preloaded options for sub-micron repeatability
Smooth Speed: 2 m/s max, whisper-quiet operation
Rigidity: Optimized for moment loads in tight layouts
Corrosion-Resistant: Stainless steel options available
Sealed: IP54+ protection against dust & splashes
Ideal for medical devices, semiconductor handlers, and precision stages. Small size. Giant performance.
| Model | Dimensions of Assembly | Dimensions of Block (mm) | Dimensions of Rail (mm) | Basic | Basic | Static Rated | Mounting | ||||||||||||||||
| Dynamic | Static | Moment | Bolt for | ||||||||||||||||||||
| (mm) | Load | Load | Rail | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Rating | Rating | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| H | H1 | N | W | B | B1 | C | L1 | L | M * L | WR | HR | D | h | d | P | E | C(kgf) | C0(kgf) | MR | MP | MY | (mm) | |
| KP15C | 16 | 4 | 8.5 | 32 | 25 | 3.5 | 20 | 27.9 | 42 | M3*4 | 15 | 10 | 6.5 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 40 | 20 | 470 | 570 | 4.6 | 2.2 | 2.2 | M3*10 |
| KP15L | 25 | 42.8 | 57 | 650 | 930 | 7.5 | 5.9 | 5.9 | |||||||||||||||
| KP15S | * | 17.7 | 32 | 356 | 397 | 3.1 | 1.2 | 1 | |||||||||||||||
| KP20C | 20 | 5 | 10 | 40 | 30 | 5 | 25 | 34.6 | 50 | M4*6 | 20 | 11 | 9.5 | 5.5 | 6 | 60 | 30 | 678 | 926 | 9.4 | 5.4 | 4.5 | M5*14 |
| KP20L | 30 | 52.3 | 68 | 868 | 1316 | 13.4 | 10.4 | 8.7 | |||||||||||||||
| KP20S | * | 22.3 | 38 | 467 | 540 | 5.5 | 2 | 1.7 | |||||||||||||||
USAGE PRECAUTIONS：
The slider is equipped with a retainer (metal wire) to prevent the balls from falling out. Therefore, when installing or removing the slider, please use the rail clamp tool provided by our company for assistance.For non-interchangeable products, if the combination of the slider and rail is altered, the radial clearance and precision cannot be guaranteed.The reference surface is located on the side of the slider and rail where the linear groove is present. When using, always align the reference surfaces of both components.The product precision is measured after the rail is fixed. (It is not the value before the rail screws are tightened.) Slight deformation of the rail in its natural state can be corrected after installation and tightening, ensuring no issues in use.Before shipment, please confirm with the Keenpa sales representative whether lubrication (grease or oil) is required.
Keenpa Linear Slide Guides Replace other Brands & Models
When looking for replacement miniature linear slide guide, you'll need to consider the brand, model number, dimensions, load capacity, and precision requirements. Below are some of the leading brands and their popular series of miniature linear slide guides.If you know the original brand and model, check manufacturer catalogs or distributors like Misumi, McMaster-Carr, or Motion Industries for cross-compatible options.
Why Consider Replacement Brands for Miniature Linear Slide Guide?
Choosing replacement brands for miniature linear slide guides offers several advantages over sticking with original OEM parts:
Cost Savings – Premium brands like THK or NSK can be expensive. Alternatives like HIWIN or PMI provide similar quality at lower prices.
Faster Availability – OEM parts often have long lead times. Replacement brands (e.g., Misumi, Bosch Rexroth) may be readily stocked, reducing downtime.
Improved Performance – Some alternatives offer better corrosion resistance, higher load capacity, or smoother motion than older OEM models.
Cross-Compatibility – Many brands follow industry-standard dimensions, allowing direct swaps without system redesigns.
Avoiding Obsolescence – If an OEM discontinues a model, replacement brands ensure continued operation with backward-compatible options.
Local Support – Regional suppliers often provide better technical assistance and warranties than distant OEMs.
By evaluating factors like dimensions, load ratings, and precision, replacement brands can deliver equal or better performance while saving time and money.
Key Considerations When Replacing Linear Slide Guides:
When replacing linear slide guides, ensure compatibility and performance by evaluating:
Dimensions – Match rail width, height, length, and mounting hole patterns to avoid mechanical conflicts.
Load Capacity – Verify dynamic and static load ratings meet or exceed original specifications.
Precision & Rigidity – Check accuracy grades (e.g., C, H, or P levels) for smooth operation in high-precision applications.
Material & Coating – Opt for corrosion-resistant options (stainless steel or coatings) if used in harsh environments.
Carriage Type – Ensure flanged, compact, or low-profile designs fit existing assemblies.
Lubrication & Maintenance – Some guides require periodic lubrication, while others are maintenance-free.
Brand Interchangeability – Confirm cross-compatibility (e.g., HIWIN MG vs. THK SR) if switching brands.
| Keenpa Linear Slide Guide Replace other Brands & Models | |||||||
| KP | CPC | HIWIN | THK | PMI | IKO | NB | MISUMI |
| KP5C | MR5M N | MGN5C | |||||
| KP5L | MR5M L | ||||||
| KPW5C | MR5W N | MGW5C | |||||
| KPW5L | MR5W L | ||||||
| KP7C | MR7M N | MGN7C | RSR7M | MSC7M | LW L7..B | SEBS7 A(-N) | (S)SEB(Z)8 |
| RSR7ZM | LW L7 | ||||||
| RSH7M | |||||||
| RSH7ZM | |||||||
| KP7L | MR7M L | MGN7H | RSR7N | MSC7LM | LW LG7..B | (S)SE LB8 | |
| KP7WC | MR7W N | MGW7C | RSR7W M | MSD7M | LW LF14..B | SEBS7WA(-N) | (S)SEBW(Z)9 |
| RSH7 ZM | LW LF14 | ||||||
| RSH7N | |||||||
| KPW7L | MR7W L | MGW7H | RSR7W N | MSD7LM | LW LFG14..B | (S)SEBW(Z)9 | |
| KP9C | MR9W N | MGN9C | RSR9KM | MSC9M | LW L9..B | SEB(S)9A(-N) | (S)SEB(Z)10 |
| RSR9ZM | LW L9..BCS | ||||||
| RSH9KM | LW L9 | ||||||
| RSH9ZM | |||||||
| KP9L | MR9M L | MGN9H | RSR9N | MSC9LM | LW LG9..B | SEB(S)AY(-N) | (S)SELB10 |
| KPW9C | MR9W N | MGW9C | RSR9W N | MSD9M | LW LF18..B | (S)SEBW(Z)12 | |
| RSR9W ZM | LW LF18..BCS | ||||||
| RSR9W VM | LW LF18 | ||||||
| RSH9W ZM | LW LF18..CS | SE(S)9W A(-N) | |||||
| KPW9L | MR9W L | MGW9H | RSR9W N | MSD9LM | LW LG18..B | SEB(S)9W AY(-N) | (S)SEBWL(Z)12 |
| KP12C | MR12W N | MGN12C | RSR12VM | MSC12M | LW L12..B | SEB(S)12A(-N) | (S)SEB(Z)13 |
| RSR12ZM | LW L12..BCS | SER(S)12A(-N) | |||||
| RSH12VM | LW L12 | ||||||
| RSH12ZM | LW L12CS | ||||||
| KP12L | MR12M L | MGN12H | RSH12N | MSC12LM | LWLG12..B | SEB(S)12A(-N) | (S)SELB13 |
| KPW12C | MR12W N | MGW12C | RSR12W V | MSD12M | LW LF24..B | (S)SEBW(Z)14 | |
| RSR12W VM | LW LF24..BCS | ||||||
| RSR12W ZM | LW LF24 | ||||||
| RSH12W ZM | LW LF24..CS | SEB(S)12WA(-N) | |||||
| KPW12L | MR12W L | MGW12H | RSR12W N | MSD12LM | LW LFG24..B | SEB(S)12W AY(-N) | (S)SEBW(Z)14 |
| KP15C | MR15W N | MGN15C | RSR15VM | MSC15M | LW L15..B | SEB(S)15A(-N) | (S)SEB(Z)16 |
| RSR15ZM | LW L15..BCS | SER(S)15A(-N) | |||||
| RSH15ZM | LW L15 | ||||||
| LW L15..S | |||||||
| KP15L | MR15ML | MGN15H | RSR15N | MSC15LM | LW LG15..B | SEB(S)15AY(-N) | (S)SE LB16 |
| KPW15C | MR15W N | MGW15C | RSR15W VM | MSD15M | LW LF42..B | (S)SEBW(Z)16 | |
| RSR15W ZM | LW LF42..BCS | ||||||
| RSH15W ZM | LW LF42 | ||||||
| LW LF42..CS | SEB(S)15W A(-N) | ||||||
| KPW15L | MR15W L | MGW15H | RSR15W N | MSD15LM | LW LG42..B | SEB(S)15W AY(-N) | (S)SEBWL(Z)16 |
| KP20C | LW L20.B | (S)SEB(Z)20 | |||||
| KP20L | |||||||
Choosing the right replacement linear slide guide requires careful comparison of dimensions, load ratings, and precision grades. By using cross-reference tables and consulting technical datasheets, you can ensure seamless compatibility and optimal machine performance.
Miniature Linear Slide Guides Rail Options:
In the world of industrial automation, CNC machining, and robotics, precision linear motion guides is non-negotiable. Our KP Series Linear Slide Guide deliver unmatched accuracy, durability, and versatility, tailored to fit applications from compact electronics assembly to heavy-duty manufacturing. With standard and wide models (KP/KPW), multiple size options, and custom lengths, we provide solutions engineered for excellence.
The table below shows the standard and maximum lengths for KP/KPW slide rails. To use lengths exceeding the maximum, splicing is required.
For details, contact KEEPA (Keenpa Precision Technology Co.,Ltd).
For custom lengths, the dimension E is recommended to match the values in the table.
If dimension L is too long, it may cause instability after installation and affect precision.
| Item | KP3 | KPW3 | KP5 | KPW5 | KP7 | KP7W | KP9 | KP9W | KP12 | KP12W | KP15 | KP15W | KP20 |
| Standard Length L (mm) | 30 | 40 | 40 | 50 | 40 | 50 | 55 | 50 | 70 | 70 | 110 | 110 | 280 |
| 40 | 55 | 55 | 70 | 55 | 80 | 75 | 80 | 95 | 110 | 150 | 150 | 340 | |
| 50 | 70 | 70 | 90 | 70 | 110 | 95 | 110 | 120 | 150 | 190 | 190 | 460 | |
| 100 | 110 | 85 | 140 | 115 | 140 | 145 | 190 | 230 | 230 | 640 | |||
| 130 | 130 | 100 | 170 | 135 | 170 | 170 | 230 | 270 | 270 | 880 | |||
| 160 | 150 | 115 | 200 | 155 | 200 | 195 | 270 | 310 | 310 | 1000 | |||
| 170 | 130 | 260 | 175 | 260 | 220 | 310 | 350 | 430 | |||||
| 290 | 195 | 290 | 245 | 390 | 390 | 550 | |||||||
| 275 | 320 | 270 | 470 | 430 | 670 | ||||||||
| 375 | 320 | 550 | 470 | 790 | |||||||||
| 370 | 550 | ||||||||||||
| 470 | 670 | ||||||||||||
| 570 | 870 | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | 10 | 15 | 12 | 20 | 15 | 30 | 20 | 30 | 25 | 40 | 40 | 40 | 60 |
| Distance to End (Es) | 5 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 10 | 7.5 | 15 | 10 | 15 | 12.5 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 30 |
| Max. Length | 300 | 300 | 600 | 600 | 1500 | 1500 | 1500 | 1500 | 1500 | 1500 | 1500 | 1500 | 1500 |
Keenpa Miniature Linear Slide Guides Purchase FAQ
Whether you're designing precision machinery, medical devices, or compact automation systems, selecting the right miniature linear slide guide is crucial. Below are the most frequently asked questions (FAQ) to guide your purchase decision.
1. What is a Miniature Linear Slide Guides?
A miniature linear slide guides is a compact, high-precision motion system that enables smooth linear movement in small-scale applications. These rails are used where space, weight, and accuracy are critical.
Key Features:
Small size (typically 3–20mm wide)
High rigidity & load capacity despite compact dimensions
Low friction & smooth motion (ball or roller bearings)
Precision-ground surfaces for accuracy
Common Applications:
Medical devices (surgical robots, lab automation)
3D printers & CNC machines
Optical systems (lens positioning)
Semiconductor equipment
Small robotics & drones
2. How Do I Choose the Right Size?
Critical Dimensions:
Rail width (e.g., 5mm, 7mm, 9mm)
Block height (affects clearance)
Length (custom cuts vs. standard sizes)
Load Capacity Considerations:
Dynamic load (C): Force during motion
Static load (Co): Max force when stationary
Moment load (Mx, My, Mz): Torsional forces
Rule of Thumb:
For smooth motion, ensure actual load ≤ 50% of dynamic load rating.
For high rigidity, choose preloaded carriages (C1 or C2 grade).
3. Ball vs. Roller Bearings – Which is Better?
| Feature | Ball Bearings | Roller Bearings |
|---|---|---|
| Friction | Lower (better for high speed) | Slightly higher |
| Load Capacity | Moderate | Higher (better for moment loads) |
| Precision | Excellent (µm-level accuracy) | Good |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Best For | High-speed, low-noise apps (e.g., optics) | Heavy-duty, high-moment applications |
4. What Materials Are Available?
Common Rail Materials:
Carbon Steel (Gcr15, hardened): High rigidity, standard for industrial use.
Stainless Steel (SUS440C/304): Corrosion-resistant (medical, food-grade).
Aluminum Alloy: Lightweight (drones, portable devices).
Carriage (Block) Materials:
Stainless steel (for clean environments)
Plastic/composite (for low weight & corrosion resistance)
5. How Important is Accuracy & Preload?
Accuracy Grades:
Standard (±50µm/m) – General automation
High Precision (±10µm/m) – CNC, optics
Ultra-Precision (±5µm/m) – Semiconductor, metrology
Preload Levels:
C0 (No preload) – Low friction, less rigidity
C1 (Light preload) – Balanced performance
C2 (Heavy preload) – High rigidity, reduced vibration
Tip: Higher preload increases stiffness but also friction.
6. How Do I Protect Against Contaminants?
Sealing Options:
Rubber seals (basic dust protection)
Metal scrapers (for chips & debris)
Bellows/covers (full protection in dirty environments)
IP Ratings:
IP54 (dust & splash resistant)
IP67 (dustproof & waterproof)
7. How to Mount Miniature Rails Correctly?
Use a machined reference surface (flatness ≤ 0.02mm/m).
Avoid over-tightening screws (can distort rail).
Align rails with dowel pins for precision.
Preload adjustment may be needed for dual-rail systems.
8. Top Brands & Price Range
| Brand | Price Range | Lead Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| THK | $$$ | 6-8 weeks | Ultra-high precision |
| Hiwin | $$ | 3-4 weeks | Best value |
| IKO | $$$ | 8+ weeks | Compact designs |
| Bosch Rexroth | $$$$ | In stock | Heavy-duty industrial |
| Chinese (KP, PMI) | $ | 0-1 weeks | Budget projects |
Tip: For prototypes, check Misumi or SDP/SI for quick-ship options.
9. How to Reduce Costs Without Sacrificing Quality?
Buy standard lengths (avoid custom cuts).
Order in bulk (volume discounts).
Consider local suppliers (lower shipping costs).
Verify certifications (ISO 9001, RoHS).
10. Red Flags When Buying Miniature Rails
No load test reports
Inconsistent hardness (should be HRC 58-62)
Poor surface finish (leads to premature wear)
No IP rating or sealing options
Final Tips:
Request samples before bulk orders.
Check lubrication requirements (self-lubricating blocks reduce maintenance).
Test thermal expansion if used in varying temperatures.
By considering these FAQs, you can select the best miniature linear slide guide for your application with confidence.
