FAQ

Why Bearing Size Matters

Different sizes of bearings are used in different industries. Smaller ball bearings have more limited load capacities and are used in applications where space efficiency is more important than load capacity. Larger bearings have greater load capacities and are used for heavy-duty industries such as agriculture machinery, mining and drilling equipment, or heavy power tools. The proper bearing size is essential for optimal performance and to safeguard that the bearing can withstand the required load and provide the expected life.

Measuring Ball Bearings

To measure ball bearings, use a vernier caliper to provide accurate measurements. If this tool is not available, measurements can be taken using a ruler. Follow these steps:

• Measure the inner diameter by inserting the outside anvils of the caliper into the inner ring of the bearing. Alternatively, measure the inner circle of the bearing from end to end with a ruler.
• Measure the outer diameter by placing the bearing in the jaws of the caliper or measuring the bearing from one outside edge to the other using a ruler.
• Repeat the last step for the width of the bearing.
• Use a bearing size chart to find the bearing series number.

 Use our bearing search function

Further Reading: How to Determine the Right Ball Bearing Size and Why It Matters?

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Needle bearing vs Ball bearing- Their common

The geometry of the rolling elements and the raceway surfaces of the inner and outer rings is point (ball) or line (roller) contact. Theoretically, the rolling elements roll and revolve on the inner and outer rings.

The main feature of the bearing is to help reduce friction. Bearings reduce friction by rolling two surfaces against each other, thereby reducing the amount of friction created. They consist of a smooth metal ball or roller that rolls on smooth inner and outer metal surfaces. The wheel or ball is loaded, causing the device to spin.

The contact surface (point) of the rolling element and the track ring support the load on the bearing with its track surface. The other constituent part retainer does not directly bear the bearing load. In addition to maintaining the correct position of the rolling elements at equal intervals, it also prevents the rolling elements from falling off when the bearing is installed.

The load of the bearing includes radial load and thrust load. Depending on where the bearing is in the mechanism, it can see all radial or thrust loads or a combination of the two.

Rolling bearings are mainly divided into two categories: ball bearings and roller bearings according to the shape of the rolling elements. Compared with ball bearings and roller bearings with the same main dimensions, ball bearings are suitable for high-speed, high-precision, low-torque, and low-vibration applications due to their lower frictional resistance and shaft runout during rotation. Because there are many forms and types of rolling bearings, each has its inherent characteristics.

Compared with sliding bearings, it has the following common advantages:

(1) The starting friction coefficient is small and the difference with the kinetic friction coefficient is small.

(2) There are international unified standards and specifications, and it is easy to obtain interchangeable products.

(3) Easy to lubricate and less lubricant consumption.

(4) A bearing can bear radial load and shaft at the same time as the load.

(5) It is also easier to use at high or low temperatures.

(6) Bearing rigidity can be improved by applying preload.

Further Reading: Needle Bearing vs Ball Bearing: What's the Difference

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What are miniature bearings?

Miniature bearings are characterized by their compact size, lightweight construction, high speed capability, and high precision

They are typically made of metal or plastic and consist of rolling elements (usually steel balls or cylindrical rollers) along with outer and inner rings. These rolling elements are distributed between the inner and outer rings to minimize friction while providing support and positioning. The geometric shape and precision of the rolling elements and ring components are crucial for ensuring proper functioning of miniature bearings.

The dimensions of miniature bearings are typically expressed in metric units, such as inner diameter, outer diameter, and width. Common sizes include 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, and so on. Furthermore, miniature bearings can be further classified based on their structural forms, such as deep groove ball bearings, angular contact ball bearings, tapered roller bearings, and more.

By utilizing miniature bearings, mechanical devices can achieve smooth operation, high performance, and space efficiency. They are an ideal choice for applications that require high-speed rotation or have limited installation space.

Miniature bearings find extensive use in a wide range of applications, including small power tools, printers, computer hard drives, model toys, and various precision instruments and electronic equipment that demand compact and efficient bearing solutions.

Further Reading: Exploring Miniature Bearings in Depth: Uncovering the Features and Applications of Small Bearings

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What are Ball Bearings Made of?

The three main parts to produce a bearing

• Steel balls are spherical types of components used as rolling mechanisms in rotary motion parts such as bearings, tooling, and wheels. There are many gauges and sizes used in a variety of purposes. This product holds the most crucial role in performing functionality and the most important purpose of this item is that it represents the importance in the rolling and rotation aspect of the bearing. Without it, it may cause the bearing to not be able to rotate in any directions.

• Bearing cage is simply known as a bearing separator or a retainer; these are used interchangeably, it is the component in a ball bearing that separates the balls, rollers, or needles, and maintains them with symmetrical radial spacing, and holds the bearings together. The cage holds the balls in a uniform ring keeping them at an equally intervals within the bearing. It can be manufactured in a range of shapes and is developed using low-friction materials to allow the balls to continue rolling efficiently. There are different types of materials of bearing cages such as: steel bearing cages, ceramic bearing cages, and plastic bearing cages.

• The main purpose of a race is basically like paths that allow the balls within ball bearings to glide while generating with no friction. In simple words is ball bearings require races to control their respective balls and it offers a fixed path on which the steel balls can roll.

There are two types of races in a bearing:

The inner and outer races and a set of balls. Both races contain a ring in its race with a groove where steel balls remain. Apparently, steel balls will be having a direct contact with each race at a single point. Inner races are found on the inside of the balls and on the other hand, outer races are found on the outside of the balls. The balls within a certain ball bearing are sandwiched between these two types of races. These two races also rotate in an opposite direction to maintain its rotation.

 Further Reading: What are Ball Bearings Made of? 3 Main Parts Material to Used

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What are the functions of each part of the Ball Bearing?

Ball Bearing can be separated into inner ring、outer ring、retainer and balls:

• Inner Ring - It's the rotating element, stuck with the axis, and rotates with the axis.
• Outer Ring - On the outer ring, there's a groove on its inside surface, It's the pathway for the balls；meanwhile, It's also a supporting role.
• Retainer - Separate balls, and avoid balls falling out of the bearing.
• Balls - Separate inner ring and outer ring.
• Lubrication - It can reduce friction and wear, and can also dissipate heat, prevent rust, seal, mitigate shock, etc.

Further Reading: How Ball Bearing Works? Tell You the Operating Principle

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Ball bearings consist of four main parts:

a. Outer Ring: It is the outermost part of the bearing and provides support and alignment for the bearing assembly.

b. Inner Ring: It is the innermost part of the bearing that fits onto the rotating shaft.

c. Balls: These are the rolling elements that separate the inner and outer rings.   Ball bearings typically have a specific number of balls, evenly spaced around the bearing's circumference.

d. Cage or Retainer: The cage holds the balls in place and maintains proper spacing between them.   It also ensures that the balls roll smoothly without rubbing against each other.

Further Reading: Choosing Ball Bearings: Detailed Analysis of Structure, Working Principles, and Types

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