Ball Bearings - A Complete Buying Guide - RS

18 Aug.,2025

 

Ball Bearings - A Complete Buying Guide - RS

Angular contact ball bearings feature internal and external ring raceways, which are disconnected from each other in relation to the bearing axis. These bearings allow for the support of loads with a combination of axial and radial forces. It is not possible to dismantle these bearings and remove the races or balls. However, they may feature a relatively large number of balls for increased support of axial and radial loads. Such bearings allow for the optimisation of speed and minimisation of friction specific to different loads.

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The three different types of angular contact bearings are single row bearingsdouble row bearings, and four-point contact bearings.

Common applications:

  • Compressors and pumps
  • Metal rolling mills
  • Electric motors and generators
  • Machine tool spindles
  • Vehicle hub bearings

Axial deep groove ball bearings are suitable for highly specific purposes. They provide exclusive support for the axial forces projected by loads. The deep groove bearings consist of shaft-locating washers, housing-locating washers, and ball and cage assemblies. While some feature flat washers, others come complete with spherical housing-locating washers for the prevention and correction of static misalignment. It is absolutely essential to avoid the projection of any radial force upon these bearings.

Found in these industries:

  • Agricultural
  • Machine tool
  • Material handling
  • Printing
  • Wind energy

Deep groove ball bearings are the most commonly used variety of ball bearings and can be purchased in seal, shield, and snap-ring arrangements. The race dimensions within these kinds of bearings closely match the dimensions of the balls that are contained. They are also well suited to the support of weighty loads. Deep groove bearings provide both radial and axial support. However, the contact angle can’t be adjusted in order to vary the relative levels of such loads.

Types of deep groove ball bearings include single row deep groove bearings, extra small and miniature bearings, maximum type ball bearings, and magneto deep groove ball bearings.

Common applications:

  • Electric motors
  • Vehicle motors
  • Office machinery
  • Garden tools

Self-aligning ball bearings feature an inner ring and ball assembly, which is held securely within an outer ring with a spherical raceway. The design of these ball bearings is such that they can tolerate a minor angular misalignment occurring as a result of either deflections or incorrect mounting.

Such ball bearings are typically incorporated within long shafts due to the associated difficulty of properly mounting housing bores. It is also quite common for such bearings to be included in mechanical systems where there would otherwise be a risk of shaft bending during operation. However, the use of self-aligning bearings should be restricted to light axial load applications because the outer ring raceway provides a limited amount of support for the rolling elements.

Common applications:

  • Gearboxes
  • Final drive transmissions

As we have discussed, bearings can have many different design configurations. To help navigate these and easily identify the bearing you require, they usually have a code that relates to the bearing type, size and even material.

Bearing manufacturers can create their own codes or prefixes, please note these may differ depending on the brand, so it is always recommended to check the details from the specific manufacturer.

Bearing Code Example - 6 2 02 2RS

Let's break down this example by each part:

(6) 2 02 2RS - The first number refers to the Bearing Type. 6 = Single row deep groove ball bearing.

(2) 02 2RS - The next digit donates the Bearing Series or durabilityof the bearing. 2 = Light

6 2 (02) 2RS - These numbers relate to the Bore Size. 02 = 15mm

6 2 02 (2RS) - Finally the suffix contains any further details around the bearing such as seals or shields. 2RS = Both Sides Sealed.

A bearing with the code RS is a Single row deep groove ball bearing with light toughness, bore size of 15mm and has both sides sealed.

Despite the slight differences between manufacturers, most bearings will follow this structure for their codes. So you can use the information below to determine the bearing you have or require.

Choosing Ball Bearing: Detailed Analysis of Structure, Working ...

Table of content

  1. Structure of Ball Bearing Assembly
  2. Functioning of Ball Bearings
  3. Types of Ball Bearings
  4. Applications of Ball Bearings

Choosing Ball Bearings

Ball bearings are mechanical components that are used to reduce friction between rotating parts. You commonly find them in various applications, including automotive, industrial machinery, household appliances, and more.

Manufacturers make ball bearings to support two types of loads. These are radial loads, which are perpendicular to the shaft, and axial loads, which are parallel to the shaft. This design helps the shaft rotate smoothly.

⬇️Next, Let's Delve Into Analyzing Ball Bearing.

1. Structure of Ball Bearing Assembly

Ball bearing consist of four main parts:

  • Outer Ring: It is the outermost part of the bearing and provides support and alignment for the bearing assembly.
  • Inner Ring: It is the innermost part of the bearing that fits onto the rotating shaft.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Unveiling the Mystery of Ball Bearing Sizes 

▼An Introduction to the Basic Structure of Bearings: A Beginner's Guide to Bearings!

2. Functioning of Ball Bearings

When a load is applied to a ball bearing, the balls roll freely between the inner and outer rings. This rolling action significantly reduces friction compared to sliding contact, resulting in smoother rotation and reduced wear.

Ball bearings rely on the principle of rolling contact. As the inner ring rotates, it transfers the load to the balls, which then distribute the load evenly around the bearing. This distribution of load reduces the pressure on individual points, minimizing wear and prolonging the bearing's life.

Unveiling the Mystery of Ball Bearings' Composition: Dive into the Details 

3. Types of Ball Bearings

Self-Aligning Ball Bearings

These bearings are designed to accommodate misalignment between the shaft and housing. They have two rows of balls. They can self-align, which helps reduce the effects of misalignment on the bearing's performance.

These are just a few examples. Many more specialized ball bearing designs exist for different application needs.

In conclusion, ball bearings are important parts. They help reduce friction and allow smooth rotation in many uses. Their design lets them handle both radial and axial loads. This makes them versatile and reliable mechanical parts.

How Ball Bearing Works? Tell You the Operating Principle 

4. Applications of Ball Bearings

Here are some of the key areas where ball bearings are commonly employed:

These examples showcase the wide range of applications that use ball bearings. Their versatility and reliability make them important parts in many industries. They help reduce friction, which improves efficiency and durability. This leads to better performance in different systems and machines.

About ISK BEARINGS

Why is ISK BEARINGS frequently chosen as the specified bearing brand by major international companies?

「Quality, Integrity, and Service」

  — are ISK's three guarantees.

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