Metric Ball Screws
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Server and Storage Service Drawers
Smooth Extension. Supported Travel. Easier Service Access.
Server and storage service drawers bring equipment within reach for inspection, maintenance, and replacement. In densely packaged data center cabinets, guided pull-out trays can improve access to server chassis, storage assemblies, and networking equipment while keeping components supported throughout their travel.
Helix Linear Technologies offers telescoping rails that equipment manufacturers can integrate into custom service drawer assemblies. With partial- and full-extension options, designers can match drawer travel to available cabinet space and the access required for maintenance.
Successful drawer design considers more than equipment weight. Extension length, mounting orientation, center of gravity, cable routing, and loading at the fully open position all influence rail selection. Helix Application Engineering can help evaluate these requirements to identify a suitable guidance solution for your equipment.
Key Benefits
- Accessible equipment: Pull-out trays bring service components beyond the cabinet opening for easier inspection and maintenance.
- Smooth, supported movement: Telescoping rails guide drawer travel while supporting the mounted assembly.
- Space-efficient extension: Nested rail sections provide extended travel within a compact retracted length.
- Flexible configuration: Partial- and full-extension options accommodate different cabinet layouts and access requirements.
- Application-focused selection: Evaluate rail configuration around equipment loads, mounting geometry, and service travel.
Design service access into your next server or storage platform with Helix telescoping rail solutions.
Product Groups
Captive Stepper Motor Linear Actuators
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Profile Rail Linear Actuators
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Lead Screws
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Linear Guidance for Data Center Equipment OEMs
Serviceability begins with the mechanical design. A well-planned drawer assembly balances equipment support, accessible components, and predictable movement within the available rack space.
Helix collaborates with equipment manufacturers to evaluate telescoping rail options for custom server, storage, and networking service modules. By considering the complete drawer assembly early in development, engineering teams can address mounting requirements, extension clearance, cable movement, and changing loads before finalizing the cabinet design.
Design Considerations
- Load and center of gravity: Account for the complete tray assembly and how its weight acts on the rails as the drawer extends.
- Travel and clearance: Select extension around the required service access and available aisle space.
- Mounting and alignment: Provide suitable mounting surfaces and rail alignment for supported movement.
- Cable management: Allow cables to move through the full stroke without excessive tension, pinching, or interference.
- Retention and stability: Incorporate appropriate stops, latches, and cabinet stability provisions into the equipment design.
Partner with Helix to select linear guidance that fits your equipment and supports practical maintenance access.
Testimonials
Precision That Powers Automation
"Your stepper motor linear actuators deliver unparalleled performance and precision, a game-changer for our automation needs."
Alan Perry, Stryker
Driving Innovation Through Collaboration
"The level of responsiveness from your sales engineer and the innovative engineering support provided during the purchase of our custom lead screw were outstanding. Our partnership has truly elevated our product development."
Ken Matthews, Johnson & Johnson
Expert Support for Complex Medical Engineering
"Your team's customer service went above and beyond, guiding us through the intricate process of custom ball screw engineering. The result? A precision-engineered ball screw that seamlessly integrated into our medical equipment, enhancing its reliability and performance. Kudos to your expertise and exceptional support.”"
John Sidlow, GE Medical
Precision That Powers Automation
"Your stepper motor linear actuators deliver unparalleled performance and precision, a game-changer for our automation needs."
Alan Perry, Stryker
Driving Innovation Through Collaboration
"The level of responsiveness from your sales engineer and the innovative engineering support provided during the purchase of our custom lead screw were outstanding. Our partnership has truly elevated our product development."
Ken Matthews, Johnson & Johnson
Expert Support for Complex Medical Engineering
"Your team's customer service went above and beyond, guiding us through the intricate process of custom ball screw engineering. The result? A precision-engineered ball screw that seamlessly integrated into our medical equipment, enhancing its reliability and performance. Kudos to your expertise and exceptional support.”"
John Sidlow, GE Medical
