Selecting the right bearing for a specific application requires a review of performance requirements and material operating limitations. Certain design considerations must be met in the device and bearing to address such factors as load, speed, temperature, environment, method of lubrication and fit. Often times sacrifices must be made in one area to satisfy another to achieve optimal life.

Many factors come into play when selecting a bearing or creating a new design in which a ball bearing will be employed. Most important are speed, load and temperature.

*d=bore in mm, N=RPM

Bearing design properties that can be manipulated to meet certain performance criteria are:

• Ring and Ball Material (Steel, ceramic, plastic, beryllium copper)
• Retainers (Ball separators, cages)
• Closures (Seals, Shields)
• Lubrication (Dry or wet)
• Radial internal clearance (CN,C3, C4)
• Load Ratings
• Maximum Speed
• Fits
• Tolerances (ABEC class)
• Bearing Life