Bearing identification chart
This bearing identification chart is designed to assist in quickly identifying common types of bearings based on their designations and features. Please note that this chart provides general information and may not cover all variations or specialized bearings.
Bearing identification chart
| Bearing Type | Designation Format | Features |
| Ball Bearing | 6XXX or 62XX or 63XX | - Consists of balls within a ring |
| - Available in various sizes and configurations | ||
| - Suitable for moderate to high-speed applications | ||
| Roller Bearing | NU, NJ, NUP, N, NN, or NK | - Features cylindrical or tapered rollers |
| (Cylindrical or | - Can handle heavy radial loads and moderate axial loads | |
| Tapered) | - Commonly used in machinery and automotive systems | |
| Thrust Bearing | 511XX or 512XX | - Designed to withstand axial loads |
| - Available in single or double direction configurations | ||
| - Used in applications with high axial load requirements | ||
| Spherical Roller | 2XXX or 22XX or 23XX | - Features barrel-shaped rollers with spherical raceways |
| Bearing | - Can accommodate misalignment and heavy radial loads | |
| - Suitable for applications with oscillating motion | ||
| Needle Roller Bearing | NK, NA, NKI, NA49, NA69, | - Contains long, thin rollers with small diameter |
| or NKIS | - Ideal for applications with limited space or high speeds | |
| - Offers high load-carrying capacity in a compact design | ||
| Tapered Roller | 30XX or 31XX or 32XX | - Rollers and raceways tapered for increased load capacity |
| Bearing | - Can accommodate both radial and axial loads | |
| - Commonly used in automotive transmissions and gearboxes |
Additional Information:
– Sealed Bearings: Some bearings may have suffixes or additional designations indicating sealed or shielded versions, which offer protection against contamination and retain lubrication. Common suffixes include “2RS” (rubber seals on both sides) and “ZZ” (metal shields on both sides).
– Specialized Bearings: In addition to standard bearing types, there are specialized bearings designed for specific applications, such as high-temperature bearings, corrosion-resistant bearings, and hybrid bearings incorporating ceramic elements for enhanced performance in challenging environments.
– Precision Bearings: Precision bearings are designated with additional letters or numbers indicating their accuracy class, such as P0, P6, P5, or ABEC ratings in the case of ball bearings. These bearings are manufactured to tighter tolerances for applications requiring high precision and performance.
– Maintenance and Lubrication: Regular maintenance, including periodic inspection and lubrication, is essential for prolonging bearing service life and preventing costly downtime. Choosing the right lubricant and replenishing it as needed helps reduce friction, wear, and the risk of bearing failure.
– Mounting and Installation: Proper mounting and installation procedures are crucial for ensuring optimal bearing performance and longevity. It’s essential to follow manufacturer recommendations regarding bearing clearance, preload, and lubrication to prevent premature failure and maximize bearing life.
– Application Considerations: When selecting bearings, it’s important to consider factors such as operating conditions, load requirements, speed, temperature, and environmental conditions. Choosing the right bearing type and configuration based on these factors ensures optimal performance and longevity in your specific application.
– Consultation and Support: If you’re unsure about which bearing type is suitable for your application or need assistance with bearing selection, don’t hesitate to reach out to bearing suppliers or engineering professionals for expert advice and support. They can help analyze your specific requirements and recommend the most appropriate bearing solution for your needs.
– Interchangeability: Many bearing designations are standardized across manufacturers, allowing for interchangeability between brands. However, it’s crucial to verify compatibility and ensure that replacement bearings meet the same specifications and quality standards as the original ones.
– Ongoing Support: A reputable bearing supplier should offer ongoing support, including technical assistance, troubleshooting, and aftermarket services. Establishing a relationship with a reliable supplier ensures access to expertise and resources to address any bearing-related challenges that may arise.
– Bearings for Specific Industries: Certain industries may have unique requirements that dictate the selection of specialized bearings. For example, the aerospace industry often requires lightweight and high-precision bearings, while the food and beverage industry may need bearings that comply with stringent hygiene standards.
– Training and Education: Proper training and education are essential for personnel involved in bearing installation, maintenance, and operation. Training programs provided by manufacturers or industry organizations can help equip your team with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle bearings safely and effectively.
– Feedback and Collaboration: Feedback from end-users and collaboration with suppliers and manufacturers are invaluable for driving innovation and improvement in bearing design and performance. By sharing insights and experiences, you can contribute to the ongoing refinement of bearing solutions to better meet the needs of the industry.
– Continuous Improvement: As technologies evolve and new advancements emerge, it’s essential to stay informed about developments in bearing technology and best practices. Regularly reviewing industry publications, attending conferences, and engaging with industry peers can help you stay ahead of the curve and optimize your bearing applications.
By leveraging the information provided in this bearing identification chart and considering these additional factors, you can make informed decisions when selecting bearings for your applications. With the right bearings and proper maintenance practices in place, you can ensure reliable and efficient operation of your equipment, ultimately contributing to the success of your business.