Ball bearings
Ball bearings are among the most commonly used types of rolling bearings and are employed in a wide range of industrial applications. They are used, for example, in electric motors, gearboxes, manufacturing machinery, transportation equipment, and agricultural machinery.
The main advantages of ball bearings are their simple design, high operational reliability, low friction, and ability to operate at high speeds. Depending on the design, they are primarily capable of supporting radial loads and, in selected types, also axial loads in one or both directions.
When selecting the right ball bearing, it is particularly important to know its dimensions, designation, sealing type, operating conditions, and required load. Our product range includes ball bearings from renowned manufacturers, such as SKF, NTN, and other brands, in various sizes and designs.
Ball Bearing Dimensions
The basic dimensions of a ball bearing are:
- inner diameter (d) – the diameter of the shaft bore
- outer diameter (D) – total diameter of the outer ring
- bearing width (B) – width of the entire bearing
Selecting the correct size is essential for the trouble-free operation of a machine or piece of equipment. When replacing a bearing, you can use the markings on the original bearing or measure its basic dimensions.
How to Choose the Right Ball Bearing?
When selecting a ball bearing, knowing only its dimensions is not enough. It is also important to consider the application and operating conditions.
- Load: Select a bearing based on the magnitude of the radial and axial loads.
- Speed: Bearings with low friction and appropriate precision are suitable for high-speed applications.
- Environment: Sealed designs are suitable for dusty or humid environments.
- Temperature: At elevated temperatures, it is necessary to select an appropriate lubricant and bearing design.
Ball Bearing Designations
A bearing designation provides information about its design, dimensions, and type. The most common series include, for example, the 6000, 6200, 6300, 6400 series, among others.
Designation example:
SKF 6205-2RS
- 62 – bearing series designation
- 05 – inner diameter designation (25 mm)
- 2RS – rubber seals on both sides of the bearing
Differences in the Sealing of 2RS and 2Z Ball Bearings
Ball bearings are manufactured with various sealing options. The most common designations are 2RS and 2Z.
- 2RS – a bearing with rubber seals on both sides. It protects the bearing from contaminants and prevents lubricant leakage.
- 2Z – a bearing with metal shields on both sides. It is particularly suitable for cleaner operating environments and higher speeds.
Differences in Designations for SKF, NTN, and NSR Bearings
| Double-sided plastic seals | Double-sided metal seals | Single-sided plastic seals | Single-sided metal seals | |
| SKF | 2RS, 2RS1, 2RSH | 2Z, 2ZR | RS | Z, ZR |
| NTN | LLU, LLB, LLD | ZZ | LU | Z |
| SNR | EE | ZZ | E | Z |
Ball bearings from SKF, NTN, SNR, and other manufacturers
In industrial applications, SKF ball bearings are often used primarily due to their precision, long service life, and wide availability. Our product range also includes bearings from other manufacturers that meet the requirements for both standard and demanding operations.
When selecting a bearing, we recommend always comparing dimensions, designations, and required operating characteristics to ensure the proper functioning of the entire equipment.
Applications of Ball Bearings
Ball bearings are used in many industrial sectors. Typical applications include:
- electric motors and generators
- gearboxes and drive units
- manufacturing and machine tools
- pumps and fans
- conveying equipment
- agricultural and construction machinery
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