Friction characteristics are an important performance indicator of rolling linear guide pairs. Compared with sliding guides, the friction coefficient of rolling linear guide pairs is much smaller. However, friction, as the main energy consumption path of rolling linear guide pairs, seriously affects the service life, load-bearing capacity, motion accuracy, and stiffness of guide pairs. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the causes, characteristics, and influencing factors of its occurrence.

During the movement of the slider of the guide rail pair on the guide rail, the differences in structural parameters and usage conditions affect its contact state, working performance, service life, and stiffness. The reasons for the frictional force generated by the rolling linear guide pair are quite complex, mainly due to the following reasons:

1. The pure rolling friction force of the steel ball of the guide rail pair when rolling in the groove. Due to the contact between the rolling element and the raceway surface when the rolling element rolls along the raceway surface under load, elastic deformation occurs.

2. Differential sliding friction force generated when steel balls come into contact with grooves. When the steel ball of the guide rail pair is subjected to elastic force, an elliptical elastic contact area is formed between the steel ball and the groove surface of the guide rail and slider.

3. The sliding friction force generated when the steel ball moves through the return hole when passing through the return valve.

4. The frictional resistance generated by the spin motion of steel balls.

5. The frictional force generated by the reverse rotation of steel balls in the bearing area and the frictional force generated by the influence of plastic deformation.

6. The frictional resistance generated by the viscous effect of lubricants.

7. Some structures of the rolling linear guide pair, such as the sealed top cover, also generate friction.