Ball Screw or Lead Screw? Which is Better?

On about 46" of length which is better lead screw or ball screw?

Also what diameter would be best?

Right now I have 1/2" dia acme screw and it whips alot at 75 ipm.

Could someone list the pros and cons of each?

Is your acme 1/2-10? if so, you might want to try 2 start 1/2-10, which would only turn half as fast. It will also only have 1/2 the torque, though.

If you're trying to eliminate the whipping, a ball screw or an acme with the same lead should'nt be much different. A ball screw is more efficient, though. But, you'll need to keep the dust from getting into the ball nut or you could have problems with it.

It is 1/2 - 10 with 1 start.

Mainly I was wanting to know which type of screw is stiffer.

Maybe a ballscrew a little, but not much. go to http://www.nookind.com and check out their catalogs. they have charts showing the max speed you can spin the screws before whipping occurs (critical speed).

To all,

I am designing a router with an effective working surface of the size of an A3 paper (2 x A4) and I do not know what size screw i have to take.

I find that there are many different "acme" (tapezium) screw types and sizes.

What leadscrew is needed?
If one has the oportunity to use a screw of tr10-2 oposed to tr14-2 and tr16-2
What would be the best choise?

Willy