MATERIAL BALL BEARINGS
Most ball bearings are made of chrome steel (100Cr6). However, bearings are also available in other materials that, for example, have better corrosion resistance. Consider bearings in AISI 316, AISI 420 or AISI 440. The two rings, balls, cage and possibly also the ZZ seal are made of the relevant stainless steel.
In addition to these versions, IBS also has hybrid bearings in its program. These are bearings with chrome steel or stainless steel inner and outer rings with ceramic balls in between. Due to the extremely smooth surface and the high stiffness of the balls, these bearings have very low rolling resistance and can function well with limited lubrication or even without lubrication for a short time.
If it is difficult to estimate whether an alternative bearing is suitable for a particular application, please contact us for useful advice.
The following causes may play a role in the premature failure of a bearing:
- Too little lubricant
- Too high load
- The lubricant has dissolved
- Contaminants, such as sand
- Too high temperature
QUALITY
The quality of a ball bearing is determined by several factors. One of those factors is the basic quality of the steel or stainless steel. Steel of lower quality or with many contaminants has a negative influence on the final quality of the bearing.
Heat treatments
Heat treatments are used in the production process to harden the raceways of the ball bearings. The type of heat treatment and accuracy of the machine largely determine the final hardness of the raceways.
CNC Machines
CNC machines are used to machine the bearings. This includes machining the raceways or turning a groove (NR). The precision of these operations is very dependent on the accuracy of the machine tool, its state of maintenance and calibration.
Balls and rolling bodies
Just as steel and material can vary for bearings, this can also vary for the balls. How hard and how stiff the material is determines the lifespan of the bearings and balls. The surface roughness (Ra) of the surface is also important. Usually, the smoother the better. longer the lifespan, but also the more laborious to make. By the way, it is good to know that ceramic balls in hybrid bearings are even smoother than steel balls. This can significantly extend the lifespan of bearings.
Anti-corrosion
To ensure that ball bearings do not corrode, bearings are treated with a preservation oil. In addition, a dry and somewhat clean storage space is also important.
Delivery times ball bearings
There are various options for ordering your bearing:
- We have these in stock
- We have to order these, there is a delivery time
- It is not available for the time being, we are looking for an alternative
- It is not a standard bearing, we have to have it produced.
Do we have your bearing in stock? Prices?
Do you have a question about bearings? We are happy to help you find the right bearing for your application, and find the bearing for the right price. Please feel free to contact us!
