Deep Groove Ball Bearings

Deep Groove Ball Bearings

Deep groove ball bearings are a category of radial bearings because they carry axial loads, thrust loads that move linearly; however, they are used most frequently when the primary load is in the radial direction. Deep groove ball bearings are commonly made from steel because of its strength, though they are increasingly being made from ceramic materials such as silicon nitride because that material is lighter and has a superior tolerance for high temperatures. These bearings are available in a wide range of sizes, from fractions of an inch to a foot in diameter. Deep groove ball bearings are among the most popular of all the types of ball bearings and are used in aircraft systems, wheel axles, spinning parts in machinery, turbines, medical equipment, car engines, power tools, motors, fitness equipment and many other products. Ball bearings are used across many industries for thousands of applications.

Deep groove ball bearings are similar to standard bearings. The grooves in the races are deeper than others and are made slightly larger than the radius of the balls so that the balls make point contact with the races. The shoulders of the inner ring are of equal height as the outer ring shoulders, unlike angular contract bearings. Deep groove bearings are able to sustain both radial and axial loads because of their simple design. They can provide precise movements while operating at high speeds, high temperatures and low torque. Deep groove bearings are available in single row, double row, open type, shield and sealed variations. Double row bearings have two sets of balls that are able to carry heavy loads. Shield bearings have steel guards that protect the balls from dust and other contaminants, excluding liquids. The guards are non-contact, so they do not add friction or contribute to heat build-up during operation. Sealed bearings have rubber or plastic lip seals that protect the balls from all forms of contamination, including liquids; however, they can result in friction and heat, which is detrimental to the bearing's performance during high-speed applications. These protective elements may be added on one or both sides of the bearing and are often pre-lubricated.