LM vs LME Linear Bearings: Check Dimensions Before Replacement
Publish Time: 2026-11-09 Origin: THK official product references; YWS product listings
Quick answer: When comparing an LM vs LME linear bearing, check the full designation and drawing before replacing a bushing. The same nominal shaft diameter does not establish the same body length, housing fit or retention details. Standard and long versions also need separate checks.
LM vs LME: a 20 mm replacement example
THK describes its LME series as metric dimensions commonly used in Europe. Its official product pages list the following examples. These are manufacturer-specific dimensional references, not a declaration that every supplier's similarly named bearing is interchangeable.
THK reference | Configuration | Shaft diameter | Body outside diameter | Body length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
LM20UU | Standard cylindrical | 20 mm | 32 mm | 42 mm |
LME20UU | European standard cylindrical | 20 mm | 32 mm | 45 mm |
LM20LUU | Long cylindrical | 20 mm | 32 mm | 80 mm |
In this example, LM20UU and LME20UU share the nominal shaft diameter and body outside diameter, but their lengths differ by 3 mm. LM20LUU is a long version with an 80 mm body. A 20 mm shaft designation alone cannot tell you whether a replacement will fit between housing shoulders or retaining rings.
Do not generalize this example to every LM/LME size or manufacturer. Confirm the offered bearing's current dimensional drawing, tolerances and suffix meaning. The THK references above use UU for a sealed version; other ordering details still need confirmation for the actual supplied product.
Related YWS product listings
The YWS LM20UU cylindrical linear ball bearing page lists a 20 mm shaft, 32 mm body outside diameter and 42 mm length. The YWS LME20UU / LME20 linear ball bushing page identifies the series, but does not publish a complete dimension table. Request the offered LME drawing before ordering; the THK reference dimensions above do not certify a YWS product's dimensions or performance.
Image from the YWS LM20UU listing. Match the product drawing and housing dimensions before replacement.
Image from the YWS LME20UU / LME20 listing. Appearance is not proof of dimensional interchangeability.
Linear bushing replacement checklist
Check | Information to compare before approval |
|---|---|
Full part identification | Manufacturer, complete model, standard or long version, seals and any additional suffixes. |
Three main dimensions | Nominal shaft diameter, body outside diameter and overall length, with units and tolerances. |
Housing retention | Retaining-ring groove positions, shoulders, end clearance and the housing drawing. |
Configuration | Closed, open, adjustable or flanged construction; these must not be assumed equivalent. |
Shaft and installation | Required shaft fit, surface condition and alignment, checked against the selected manufacturer's instructions. |
Operating requirements | Load direction, travel speed, movement cycle, lubrication, contamination and temperature conditions. |
What to send for a replacement quotation
Send photographs of the original markings and both ends, the complete designation, measured dimensions, housing and shaft drawings, required quantity and destination. Identify any information that is unknown. Ask the supplier to identify deviations and confirm the offered drawing before approving a substitution. The bearing RFQ checklist and English quotation template can help organize the enquiry.
Frequently asked questions
Can LM20UU replace LME20UU on the same 20 mm shaft?
Do not approve it on shaft diameter alone. The THK examples have 42 mm and 45 mm body lengths respectively. Compare the actual drawings, retention features, tolerances and operating requirements.
Is LM20LUU simply another name for LM20UU?
No. The official THK pages identify LM20LUU as a long cylindrical version with 80 mm length, compared with 42 mm for LM20UU. Keep the full model in the purchase order.
Do matching dimensions prove the same load capacity?
No. Dimensional matching addresses only part of the replacement check. Obtain the ratings and installation requirements for the exact offered product; do not transfer another manufacturer's ratings to it.
Request a dimension check and quotation
Contact YWS Bearing / Request a Quote with your full LM or LME designation and assembly drawing. Ask for confirmation of the offered version, supply scope, quantity and commercial terms.
Technical references
Manufacturer dimensional references: THK LM20UU, THK LME20UU, THK LM20LUU and THK LME series. The YWS product pages linked above describe the YWS listings separately. No THK affiliation or authorized distributor status is implied.
Prepared by YWS Bearing Editorial Team. Sources reviewed 30 October 2026. This purchasing guide supports dimensional screening; final application suitability requires the exact product specification and assembly review.