HIWIN QEH-CA Quiet Low Profile Linear Guideway Block

The HIWIN QEH-CA is the square, heavy load block of the QE series, a low profile linear guideway with SynchMotion technology. It combines the 24 to 48 mm assembled height of the EG series with partitions between the balls for quieter, smoother running, and it runs on the same rail as the EG series.

A quiet low profile guideway that fits EG rails

HIWIN develops the QE on the four-row circular-arc contact of the EG and adds SynchMotion partitions. The catalog says this gives smooth movement, superior lubrication, quieter operation and longer running life, and that in high-tech industries where high speed, low noise and low dust generation are required the QE is interchangeable with the EG series.

Because QE and EG share identical rails, a design can move from EG to QE without a new rail. The catalog names automation devices, high-speed transportation equipment, precision measuring equipment and semiconductor manufacturing equipment as the main applications.

Technical specifications

Size range and load ratings of the QEH block

H is the assembled height, W the block width, L the block length, then C and C0 and the block and rail mass. The QE blocks have noticeably higher ratings than EG blocks of the same size, for example QEH15CA C 12.53 kN against EGH15CA C 7.83 kN.

Ordering code, preload and selection

The QE code reads: series, block type (W flange, H square), size, load type (C heavy, S medium), block mounting (A top, B bottom), blocks per rail, rail mounting, rail length, accuracy, preload, rails per axis and dust protection (ZZ, KK, DD) with options such as RC reinforced caps. For interchangeable sets the rail is ordered as an EG rail.

The catalog advises a preload no greater than ZA for sizes smaller than QE20 to avoid over-loading. Z0 suits a constant load direction with low precision needs, ZA low load with high precision, and ZB high rigidity with vibration. Before ordering, confirm the size, block type, preload, accuracy, rail length and E values, and send the label data of the guideway you replace.

Installing QEH-CA blocks on the rail

Good running and the quiet behaviour the QE series is known for depend on the mounting surfaces as much as on the block. Clean the machine bed, the rail seat and the block mounting face, remove burrs and paint, and check flatness and parallelism against the tolerances given in the HIWIN catalog for the chosen accuracy and preload classes.

Press the rail against its reference edge and tighten the rail bolts in sequence from the centre outwards to the torque the catalog specifies. Slide the QEH-CA block onto the rail carefully; never let it run off the rail end without a dummy rail or the means HIWIN describes for keeping the balls in place. Fit the table, tighten the block bolts diagonally, then move the carriage by hand over the full stroke. Any tight spot or uneven resistance points to a mounting error that should be corrected before the axis is motorised.

Selection checks for the heavy load square block

Confirm that the load, moment and life calculation uses the C and C0 values of the exact size in the table above, and that the chosen preload class matches the application. Check that the assembled height and block width fit the existing envelope, especially when replacing an EG block, and that the rail length and E values match the machine drawing. If the axis works in a dirty area, decide on the dust protection code at the ordering stage rather than after installation.

Running linear guides in hot and dusty GCC workshops

Fine sand and machining dust are the main enemies of linear guideways in Oman and the wider GCC. Particles that pass the seals mix with lubricant and form an abrasive paste that shortens running life and raises noise. Where the machine is exposed, consider the ZZ, KK or DD dust protection listed in the ordering code, and add bellows or covers on the machine side if the design allows.

High workshop temperatures in summer thin the lubricant and can speed up its loss, while humid coastal air promotes corrosion on carbon steel rails that are left dry during a shutdown. Keep exposed rail surfaces lightly protected and avoid washing guides with water.

Lubrication and inspection routine

Lubricate before first use and then at intervals based on travel distance, speed and contamination, using the lubricant type and quantity recommended by HIWIN. During planned stops, wipe the rail, look for rust, scoring or flaking on the raceway, and listen for any change in running noise. A block that becomes rough or noisy should be inspected before damage spreads to the rail.

Documents and quotation

The linked PDF is the QE chapter of the HIWIN Linear Guideway Catalog G99TE24-2410, unchanged. More items are in our product range. Seven Star LLC is an independent supplier in Muscat; send the QE model number, rail length, quantity and delivery location with your RFQ.