[brianburke@bwc]

DonRotolo,

The donated track lengths were intended to be used on robot kits and that is why they are of shorter lengths. You can butt-join the track when mounting it but you will have a bump. It is much better to simply order tracks in the lengths that you need. DualVee is available in standard catalog lengths up to around 72" or 6 feet long. They are available with mounting holes pre-drilled or without mounting holes. You can also order DualVee track up to 20 feet long if you have a long application.

I'll make a new post about how to cut and drill DualVee tracks, so see that entry for more details.

You are correct about the constant sweeping and self-cleaning action of DualVee wheels and track. Due the the angle, and the associated variation in diameter, a velocity gradient is created for each revolution of the wheel. The speed is slower near the center of the vee and it is faster near the outer diameter. Debris is typically ejected rather than steamrollered under the wheel.

DualVee was designed for very harsh and dirty environments. It functions better than any other linear guide technology in sawdust, grit, and particulates.

It is recommended to use a light oil as a lubricant for DualVee track and wheel applications. The addition of lubricant greatly reduces the rolling friction, reduces noise, and significantly increases life. Lubricant oil can be applied to the track surface with an oil soaked rag. The other benefit of oil is a reduction in corrosion.