THK’s AE sensors use acoustics to check linear-motion systems for damage from cracks or elastic deformation.

New acoustic sensors from THK GmbH, Ratingen, Germany, promise to diagnose damage to linear guides and ballscrews without having to dismantle machine tools. In addition, the Acoustic Emission (AE) sensors are unaffected by mechanical vibration.

According to THK, its AE sensors let shops examine connected oscillations of different machine parts. The sensors work by separating specific acoustic waves — caused by elastic deformations or cracks — from other sounds generated during the drive of a linear-motion system.