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What is the difference between Z0, ZA and ZB preload, and which level should I choose for my axis?

What is the difference between Z0, ZA and ZB preload, and which level should I choose for my axis?

2025-11-23

Z0, ZA and ZB are different preload levels for linear guide blocks:

Z0 preload – very light preload or almost zero clearance
- Low friction, easy to move
- Suitable for light-load, high-speed axes and general automation
ZA preload – light to medium preload
- Higher rigidity than Z0 but still reasonable friction and heat
- Commonly used on machining center X/Y axes and many CNC and industrial axes
ZB preload – heavy preload
- Highest rigidity and the least elastic deformation
- Used for very heavy cutting heads, boring mills or axes where deflection must be minimal

However, there are some critical points you must consider before choosing a high preload, especially ZB:

Installation flatness and parallelism
High preload (especially ZB) makes the guideway much more sensitive to mounting errors.
- If the base surfaces are not precision-machined and properly ground, the rail cannot “flex” to absorb the error.
- The block will run very heavy, generate heat and may wear the raceways quickly or even seize.