There are many different types of bearings around the market and they vary from dimensions, material types, loading capacity and shapes. Below is a few ways you can use to quickly identify a bearing.
a) Dimension: Bearings is generally measured using inner diameter (ID), outer diameter (OD) and thickness (width). You can use a vernier caliper to measure the bearing. Once you know the dimension of your bearing, simply enter the dimension in the search bar located HERE and it will show you the . For example a bearing of ID = 10mm, OD = 26mm, width = 8mm, enter 10x26x8.
b) Bearing model: Some bearings will have the bearing model engrave on the bearing. If you can identify the model on the bearing, enter the model in the search bar HERE to search for the bearing you need. For example: 608-2RS
c) Closure or Seal Type: Some applications will require bearings to have different combination of shield. Here is a list of the common ones:
- 2RS : Bearing with Rubber shield on both sides
- ZZ : Bearing with Metal shield on both sides
- RZ : one side rubber shield, the other side metal shield
- None (no label): Bearing with no shield, also known as open on both sides
d) Material: The most common types of material for bearing are steel, stainless steel, ceramic Si3N4, ceramic ZrO2, plastic and glass. There are other type of bearings where they use a multiple combination of material but I will explain in great detail later. If you really struggle to find a good quality bearing or simply just need help identifying the bearing type you need,feel free to CONTACT US.
| Material | Pros (Advantages) | Cons (Disadvantages) | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel |
Low cost, easy to source, good load capacity | Will rust in the presence of moisture and chemical, require oil/grease for lubrication | Most applications, skateboard |
| Stainless Steel 440C |
Withstand higher temperature and better corrosion resistance than steel, higher strength than steel | More expensive than steel bearing, require oil/grease for lubrication, slightly noiser than steel bearing | High heat environment, mild acid, mild alkaline and freshwater environment |
| Ceramic Si3N4 |
Light, no lubrication needed, long life, low noise, non-metallic, tough ceramic, very good corrosion resistance | Very expensive bearing type, low load capacities, sensitive to thermal shock, not suitable for high impact loads application | High value equipment such as MRI scanners, lab equipment, aerospace application, electric insulation environment and corrosion resistance environment |
| Ceramic ZrO2 |
Light, no lubrication needed, long life, low noise, not easily deformed, cost-effective alternative for Si3N4, has similar properties to steel but lighter than steel, water resistant | Low load capacities, sensitive to thermal shock, not suitable for high impact loads application | Suitable for use in food industry, high value equipment such as MRI scanners, lab equipment, marine application, textile machine, shaft and housing fits for higher temperature |
| Plastic |
Light, no lubrication needed, low noise, no strong smell, excellent in chemical environment, can be fully submerged in water, slow running speed, good corrosion resistance | Low load capacity, lack of stiffness | Typically used in equipment running at low to moderate speed, example food industry, hospital equipment, pumps, and spray mechanisms. |