SIMO Process Overview

What is the SIMO machine?

If you are a regular browser of our website, you have probably seen some references to the SIMO® process. We can quickly summarize this as a proprietary process that ensures precision machined extrusions with incredibly tight tolerances that are consistent throughout the length of the rail. Sounds great, right? But what does all that mean to the design engineer?

  • What does SIMO stand for? Simultaneous Integral Milling Operation
  • How does it work? SIMO uses multiple cutters and mills in a synchronized operation to machine extrusions in one quick pass, eliminating hours of painstaking cutting/machining that other extruding processes would require. This precise machining method produces linear rails with 6 times better straightness, 2 times less twist, and 2 times better flatness than competitive linear motion systems based on extrusions.
  • What are the advantages? The SIMO process has been shown to hold tolerances of ± 0.001"/0.025mm throughout the length of the rail. This provides engineers with an extremely accurate length product and ensures quick installation and alignment.
  • What are the costs? SIMO enabled rails offer repeatable linear motion at affordable prices. The one-minute video above shows how machined precision is available at extrusion prices because of the patented SIMO process.
  • Where can you find SIMO products? SIMO qualified rails are used in a range of PBC Linear product families including Integral-V® Technology (IVT), Uni-Guide® Linear Slides, Linear Actuator Technology, and the SIMO Series Linear Motion Platform.
SIMO Process Figure 1

Swaging process

The swaging process and the method developed for manufacturing embedded raceways ensures the pre-engineered alignment of parallel rails while guaranteeing the security of the hardened steel raceways throughout the life of the unit. This process combines aluminum and steel to create a lightweight, precise, and durable solution for longer rails. All of the critical edges of the rails are then cut using the SIMO process, making them more rigid, accurate, and repeatable. This pre-engineered alignment lowers the cost of components, which in turn lowers the cost of assembly time and overall installation cost. Combined, these processes allow PBC Linear to offer more efficient and cost-effective products and services.

You can learn more about our SIMO Series linear motion platform by using these helpful reference materials: