We talk about short stroke applications when a rolling element does not travel past the position of the next rolling element during a stroke.
Normal stroke
A continuous lubricating film forms below the rolling element
Short stroke
Local depressions from wear and tear form on the tracks. At highly frequent strokes the lubricating film is also interrupted
Because the tracks are concentrated at these points (depressions from wear and tear form), the precision and service life of the guideway is reduced. When the strokes are highly frequent, a standard lubricant is no longer able to reach the points of contact.
Wear and tear can be deferred by using suitable lubricants and performing regular lubrication strokes.
Important note
Short strokes curtail the service life of the guideway considerably. The service life of the guideway(s) can only be determined by means of testing.