Belt-Driven BiSlide® Assembly
The Velmex BiSlide Belt Drive Assembly is designed for long travel and high speed. The drive’s high efficiency makes it an ideal solution for moving light loads at high speed and for continuous duty applications.
This Belt-Driven BiSlide Stage is available in many standard lengths up to 220 inches (5.6 meters). It is designed to handle speeds up to 9.9 ft. (3 m) per second using direct drive motors and high powered controllers. This BiSlide configuration is only available as motorized.
The Velmex Belt-driven BiSlide system is assembled with a motor/gearbox mounted 90 degrees to the linear dovetail stage. The motor/gearbox couples to a stainless steel pulley which drives the steel reinforced precision timing belt. The maximum payload is 100 lb. (45.36 kg.)
Belt-Driven BiSlide® Features
Because the Belt-Driven BiSlide is a configuration of the linear Velmex BiSlide Assemblies, it has many of the same features and benefits found on the world-recognized BiSlide stages.
Belt-Driven BiSlide Style Options
Part number information for each style can be found under Specifications at the end of the page.
Single Axis – The Belt-Driven BiSlide Assembly is a motorized linear stage. It can be configured as a single axis or multiple axis system, including parallel-coupled. The standard Belt-Drive is available in travel distances from 10″ to 220″ in increments of 10″. Style differences depend on the options added. (Pictured is a single axis Belt-Driven BiSlide)
Please note: While we offer 10″ and 20″ Belt-driven BiSlides for special applications, travel lengths under 30″ are not recommended for practical use for high speed or continuous duty applications.
Parallel-Coupled – Pictured is an X axis Parallel-Coupled Belt-Drive BiSlide on a BiSlide frame system. The Y axis is another single linear Belt-Driven BiSlide. The Z axis is a lead screw BiSlide. See also Parallel-Coupled BiSlides.
Please refer to either manually-operated or motor-driven BiSlide Assemblies for additional details, specifications and examples of other BiSlide models, series and styles.
BiSlide Belt-Driven Configurations
The basic Belt-Driven BiSlide is a 1-axis linear stage. It can be configured a number of different ways and with multiple axes, incorporating lead-screw BiSlide Assemblies and using the BiSlide T-Slot and framing system. Two can be coupled together in parallel adding load capacity. See also Parallel-Coupled BiSlides.
A braking function should be included when operating the Belt-Driven BiSlide in a vertical application to prevent rapid descension of the payload. The Velmex’s VXM™ Motor Controller has a braking option that can be used in this scenario.
Belt-Driven BiSlide® Specifications
Factors such as size of the motor, size of the payload, travel distance, mounting direction/plane, etc. effect the actual capability of any assembly. Please contact Velmex Application Engineers to configure a system that will meet your exact requirements.
| BiSlide® | Travel Distance‡ | Base Length | Slider Length | ||||
| Series* | Inches | cm | Inches | cm | Inches | cm | |
| MB10 – Belt Drive |  | 10"†† – 228" | 25.4 – 579.12 | 27.3" – 245.3" | 68.34 – 623.1 | 8" | 30.32 |
*Motors quoted separately. NEMA 34 units sold with .150″ motor mounting coupling.
††While we offer 10″ and 20″ Belt-driven BiSlides for special applications, they are not recommended for practical use for high speed or continuous duty applications.
‡Standard travel distances available are in 10″ increments.
| BiSlide® | Weight | Height | Width | ||||
| Series | lbs. | kg. | Inches | cm | Inches | cm | |
| MB10 – Belt Drive | | 12.9 – 83.1 | 5.9 – 37.7 | 4.12" | 10.48 | 7.24" | 18.4 |
| BiSlide® | Dynamic Load | Static Load | Momentary Load | |||
| Load Capacity | lbs. | kg. | lbs. | kg. | lbs. | kg. |
| Normal Centered (maximum) | 100 lbs. | 45.36 | 200 lbs. | 90.72 | 300 lbs. | 136.1 |
| Thrust | 50 lbs. | 22.7 | 50 lbs. | 22.7 | 100 lbs. | 45.36 |
| Cantilevered | 500 lbs-in | 56.5 n-m | 500 lbs-in | 56.5 n-m | 500 lbs-in | 56.5 n-m |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Coefficient of friction
Cantilevered Loads
Minimum Input Torque Required
Repeatability
Straight line accuracy
Belt Pre-load Tension
Pulley Pitch Radius
Advance per turn
Operating temperature
0.09 typical
Equivalent center load= (dxF/2) +F d= distance from center (inches) F= Load (lbs)
75 in-oz
0.0002″ (0.005 mm)
0.0007″/ 10″ (0.018mm/25cm)
120 lbs (54.5 kg)
0.6266″ (15.9 mm)
100 mm ( 3.937″)
23 to 158° F (-5 to 70° C)
Information on stage composition, tolerances, wear and design for specialty applications.
BiSlide® Dimensions
Carriage
BiSlide Base Cross-Section
The slider / carriage (shaded area in the cross-section to the left) rides inside the guide ways. The 45 degree opposing ways give strength to carry the payload.
All BiSlides have the same basic part number configuration. The number varies with the series, the travel distance, the lead screw and the motor mountings. Additional prefixes and suffixes are added for the options and accessories. You can determine the BiSlide part number using the chart below. Belt-Driven BiSlide part numbers start with “MB”.
Options/Accessories for Belt-Driven Velmex BiSlides®
See BiSlide Options and Accessories for more detailed information on the options and accessories that could be used on the Belt-Driven BiSlide Assembly. Here are a few of the more common ones.
Framing – The versatility of the BiSlide’s modular design enables building of complex configurations. A variety of framing components can be combined and connected, disassembled and reassembled in alternate configurations to build BiSlide structures as needed. Included in the framing available are T-Slot Plate, I-Beam Base, T-Nuts, mounting bolts and other hardware. For more specifics and to see the framing components, including plates and brackets, in use on a Velmex stage visit the BiSlide Adapters page.
Cleats – use BiSlide cleats to create rigid XY attachments, mountings for optical tables and attachments to other T-slot framing systems. The cleats are also used to secure BiSlides for longer travel distances and to support larger loads. Cleating Recommendations.
MC-1 – Standard 1 hole cleat. Mounts the BiSlide to a frame / base / surface. Can be used to mount to other BiSlides in an XY, XZ or XYZ configuration.
MC-2 – Standard 2 hole cleat. Mounts the BiSlide to a frame / base / surface. Can be used to mount to other BiSlides in an XY, XZ or XYZ configuration.
MC-3 – For use with optical benches with 1″ or 25 mm centers
MC-4 Sandwich cleats – used to connect two parallel bases.
Encoders and VRO™ Encoder Readout – For a high resolution position readout an encoder and Velmex’s VRO encoder readout can be mounted to the linear slides. An encoder, mounted directly to the slider gives a true and accurate reading eliminating lead screw and backlash errors.
The VRO is compatible with all 5V incremental encoders. Fully functional, it features automatic memory back-up of settings, sleep mode and self diagnostics. It’s highly visible, wide-screen LED display makes it easy to view the positioning results. SEE: Velmex Controls on the Encoders and the VRO Readout for additional details.
Outboard Adjustable Limit Switches – Mounted in a track on the side rib of Velmex BiSlide Assemblies to prevent over-travel. An optional third limit switch can be added between the two standard limits and used as an adjustable home switch. See Limits for more information.
Motors and Motor-Controllers – A variety of motors are available to power Velmex UniSlides, most popular of which is the DC step motor. Integrated gear reduction motors are also available for economical operation. Servo motors are also used with the Belt-Drive BiSlide Assembly.
Motors coupled with a motor controller like the Velmex VXM™ are a cost effective solution for accurate speed and precise incremental positioning. Gear motors, servo motors and high resolution step motors in both AC and DC can run Velmex BiSlides. SEE: Velmex Controls on the Motors and Velmex Controls on the VXM Controller for additional details.
For .STP files, you may need to right click on the download button and save the “target” or “link”.
The majority of CAD drawing found in our Technical Library are Step (.stp) files. You will also see .dxf, .dwg, .sat and .pdf files. If you require a different format or cannot located the drawing you require, please contact us. Drawings are identified by the series/model part no. The number can be found on the side or end of any Velmex device you may already own.
| Series | Type | File Name | Description | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_0100_M100_33_6Cleats_PK296xx-SGxx.sat | Belt Drive, 10" Travel, PK296 step motor, 6 cleats |  | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_0100_M100_33_6Cleats_PK296xx-SGxx.stp | Belt Drive, 10" Travel, PK296 step motor, 6 cleats | | - |
| 20" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_0200_M100_33_6Cleats_20in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 20" Travel, PK296 step motor, 6 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_0200_M100_33_6Cleats_PK296_20in Beltdrive.stp | Belt Drive, 20" Travel, PK296 step motor, 6 cleats | | - |
| 30" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_0300_M100_33_8Cleats_30in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 30" Travel, PK296 step motor, 8 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_0300_M100_33_8Cleats_PK296_30in Beltdrive.stp | Belt Drive, 30" Travel, PK296 step motor, 8 cleats | | - |
| 40" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_0400_M100_33_10Cleats_40in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 40" Travel, PK296 step motor, 10 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_0400_M100_33_10Cleats_PK296_40in Beltdrive.stp | Belt Drive, 40" Travel, PK296 step motor, 10 cleats | | - |
| 50" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_0500_M100_33_12Cleats_50in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 50" Travel, PK296 step motor, 12 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_0500_M100_33_12Cleats_PK296xx-SGxx_50in Beltdrive.stp | Belt Drive, 50" Travel, PK296 step motor, 12 cleats | | - |
| 60" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_0600_M100_33_14Cleats_60in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 60" Travel, PK296 step motor, 14 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_0600_M100_33_14Cleats_PK296xx-SGxx_60in Beltdrive.stp | Belt Drive, 60" Travel, PK296 step motor, 14 cleats | | - |
| 80" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_0800_M100_33_16Cleats_80in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 80" Travel, PK296 step motor, 16 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_0800_M100_33_16Cleats_PK296xx-SGxx_.stp | Belt Drive, 80" Travel, PK296 step motor, 16 cleats | | - |
| 100" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_1000_M100_33_18Cleats_100in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 100" Travel, PK296 step motor, 18 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_1000_M100_33_18Cleats_PK296xx-SGxx_100in Beltdrive.stp | Belt Drive, 100" Travel, PK296 step motor, 18 cleats | | - |
| 120" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_1200_M100_33_20Cleats_120in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 120" Travel, PK296 step motor, 20 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_1200_M100_33_20Cleats_PK296xx-SGxx_120in Beltdrive.stp | Belt Drive, 120" Travel, PK296 step motor, 20 cleats | | - |
| 140" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_1400_M100_33_22Cleats_140in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 140" Travel, PK296 step motor, 22 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_1400_M100_33_22Cleats_PK296xx-SGxx_140in Beltdrive.stp | Belt Drive, 140" Travel, PK296 step motor, 22 cleats | | - |
| 160" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_1600_M100_33_24Cleats_160in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 160" Travel, PK296 step motor, 24 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_1600_M100_33_24Cleats_PK296xx-SGxx_160in Beltdrive.stp | Belt Drive, 160" Travel, PK296 step motor, 24 cleats | | - |
| 180" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_1800_M100_33_26Cleats_180in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 180" Travel, PK296 step motor, 26 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_1800_M100_33_26Cleats_PK296xx-SGxx_180in Beltdrive.stp | Belt Drive, 180" Travel, PK296 step motor, 26 cleats | | - |
| 200" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_2000_M100_33_28Cleats_200in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 200" Travel, PK296 step motor, 28 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_2000_M100_33_28Cleats_PK296xx-SGxx_200in Beltdrive.stp | Belt Drive, 200" Travel, PK296 step motor, 28 cleats | | - |
| 220" Travel | |||||
| MB10 - Belt | SAT | MB10_2200_M100_33_30Cleats_220in Beltdrive.sat | Belt Drive, 220" Travel, PK296 step motor, 30 cleats | | - |
| MB10 - Belt | STP | MB10_2200_M100_33_30Cleats_PK296xx-SGxx_220in Beltdrive.stp | Belt Drive, 220" Travel, PK296 step motor, 30 cleats | | - |
Belt-Drive BiSlide Documents
| Type | File Name | Description | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Belt-Driven BiSlide Dimensional Drawings.pdf | Dimensional drawings for the Belt-Drive BiSlide | |  | |
| BiSlide_Belt-Drive.pdf | Overview with specifications of the Belt-Drive Assembly | | |
| Type | File Name | Description | Download | View |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BiSlide Belt Drive Parallel Coupled Assy.pdf | Instruction - Assembly for Parallel-Coupled BiSlides | | | |
| BiSlide PC4 Parallel Coupled .pdf | Instruction - Assembly for PC4 Parallel-Coupled BiSlides | | |
Velmex Belt-Driven BiSlide® Applications and Examples
These are examples of Velmex products. If you wish a similar product, please contact us with your specific application specifications (travel distance, payload, hours per day in use, resolution, speed range, etc.). You can use the Request Assistance form.
The example displayed may be a custom configuration, designed to the customer’s specifications; and not offered as a standard product. Custom configurations could contain custom, externally-fabricated components.
Pictured in our gallery are examples of configurations for the Belt-Driven BiSlide, along with configurations that also include other Velmex products. Product and accessory offering is subject to change and availability.
| Example Key Code | Meaning | Example Key Code | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Manually Operated | M | Motorized |
| S | Standard | C | Custom Configuration |
| B | BiSlide | U | UniSlide |
| X | XSlide | R | Rotary Tables |
| T | XY Tables | TT | Turntables |
| E | Elevating Tables | FS | Fun Stuff (Ingenious, Cool, or Just out of the ordinary applications) |
Single Axis Belt-Driven BiSlide Stages
Multiple-Axes Belt-Driven BiSlide Assemblies
Combination Assemblies
Working Images
Examples of other Velmex products can be found on the Examples page or in the Examples section for each product.
Many questions can be answered by reviewing the “Features”, “Model / Series”, “Specifications”, “Options / Accessories” and “Technical Documentation” sections for each product line. Additional FAQs about product comparisons, product construction, purchasing and shipping can be found on the company FAQ page.
Do BiSlides need lubrication and how often?
Lubrication is important for motor-driven systems or wherever you want maximum life and the lowest friction. BiSlide Assemblies should be lubricated with Velmex BL-1 oil. Only a few drops are required to keep your slide running smoothly. The load and hours of use effect the amount and frequency of lubrication. Manual BiSlide assemblies require less frequent lubrication. See the user guide that came with your BiSlide for recommendations.
Can BiSlides be mounted together?
Yes, BiSlides can be mounted together in XY, XZ, XYZ configurations. Mounting BiSlide assemblies in multi-axis systems is easy using cleats. T-slot bases and frames can be added for more structure and to create application specific systems. They also can be combined with Velmex Rotary Tables and our other linear stages to make custom systems for a wide range of requirements. See BiSlide Options and Accessories for more information on the cleats and T-slot structuring.
How do I mount a BiSlide to my working surface?
BiSlides typically are mounted to any surface with the BiSlide cleats. The surface should be flat to avoid binding, operate smoothly and accurately. Steel or aluminum are recommended for the surface. For heavy loads, you start with 2 pair of cleats (4) and add a pair for every 5″ in travel. Lighter loads would require fewer cleats.
How do you adjust the carriage fit on an BSlide?
Adjustments the carriage on a BiSlide may be necessary after break in period and less frequently thereafter. The Lead Screw Nut (StabilNut) has an adjustable mesh to minimize backlash. Carriage fit can be adjusted by tightening the bolts on the carriage surface. See the BiSlide Owners Manual for how and when to adjust.
How much weight can you lift vertically with a BiSlide Belt driven slide?
When used with a Velmex VXM™ controller you can lift up to 20 lbs. with the Belt Drive model. However, when using a BiSlide® Belt driven slide mounted vertically it should be used in conjunction with a “Fail-Safe-Brake” option to prevent rapid dropping. A VXM™ with braking option is offered. A servo system with similar braking option can lift up to 40 lbs vertically on the Belt Drive.
How do I increase the resolution on the Belt-Driven BiSlides?
Gear reduction motors are available that will increase the resolution on a Belt-Driven BiSlide, however, that will reduce the travel speed.
If you have questions about your specific application or want us to design a Belt-Driven BiSlide System for you, please complete the Request Assistance form or call Velmex to speak to one of our Application Engineers.
