INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Ball Bearings

Ball bearings are precision-engineered rolling-element components that reduce friction and support radial/axial loads in linear motion systems.

Component Specifications

Definition
Ball bearings are mechanical assemblies consisting of hardened steel balls contained within precision-ground inner and outer races. In precision linear motion guide rails, they facilitate smooth, low-friction linear movement by converting sliding friction into rolling friction. These components maintain precise alignment, handle combined loads (radial, axial, and moment loads), and provide repeatable positioning accuracy in industrial automation, CNC machinery, and precision measurement equipment.
Working Principle
Ball bearings operate on the principle of rolling contact mechanics. Hardened steel balls roll between the bearing races, minimizing surface contact area and converting sliding friction into rolling friction. In linear guide applications, the balls recirculate through a return path within the carriage, creating continuous rolling motion along the rail. This reduces friction coefficient to 0.001-0.003, enables precise motion control, and distributes loads across multiple contact points.
Materials
Chrome steel (AISI 52100/SUJ2) with Rockwell hardness 58-64 HRC; Corrosion-resistant variants: AISI 440C stainless steel; Ceramic options: Silicon nitride (Si3N4) for high-speed applications; Polymer cages: Polyamide, PEEK, or brass retainers.
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Speed RatingUp to 3 m/s linear velocity
Ball Diameter1.5-7.938 mm
Load CapacityDynamic: 2-50 kN, Static: 3-75 kN
Precision GradeABEC 1-9 (ISO P0-P2)
Friction Coefficient0.001-0.003
Operating Temperature-30°C to +120°C (standard), up to +200°C (special)

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards
ISO 14728, ISO 199, DIN 636, JIS B 1514

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Brinelling from shock loads
  • Corrosion in humid environments
  • Contamination leading to premature wear
  • Lubrication failure causing seizure
  • Misalignment during installation
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Inadequate lubrication
Failure: Increased friction, overheating, premature wear
Mitigation: Implement automated lubrication systems, use high-temperature greases, establish maintenance schedules
Trigger: Contaminant ingress
Failure: Abrasive wear, pitting, reduced accuracy
Mitigation: Install protective seals, use bearing units with integrated wipers, maintain clean operating environment
Trigger: Improper installation alignment
Failure: Uneven load distribution, reduced lifespan, noise generation
Mitigation: Use precision alignment tools, follow manufacturer mounting procedures, verify parallelism within 0.02 mm/m

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Running parallelism: ≤0.02 mm/m, Height variation: ≤0.01 mm, Preload clearance: 0-15 μm (depending on precision class)
Test Method
ISO 14728-1 for dynamic load testing, ISO 199 for noise testing, manufacturer-specific endurance testing (50-100 km travel life tests)

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Ball Bearings

3 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Hafeng Bearing Co., Ltd.
Guangzhou, Guangdong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Luoyang Monton Bearing Science & Technology Co., Ltd.
Henan, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Zhejiang Waxing Electromechanical Co., Ltd.
Zhejiang, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Related Components

Upper Tool (Punch)
Upper Tool (Punch) is the active forming component in metal plate bending machines that applies precise downward force to create bends in sheet metal.
Main Frame
The main frame is the primary structural component of a hydraulic press, providing rigidity and stability to withstand high compressive forces during metal forming operations.
Shaft Bearing
Precision component supporting rotating shafts in vibration motors to reduce friction and maintain alignment.
Seal Groove
Precision-machined groove in aluminum bearing housings designed to accommodate sealing elements for fluid containment and contamination prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ball bearings and roller bearings in linear guides?

Ball bearings use spherical balls for point contact, offering lower friction and higher speeds but lower load capacity. Roller bearings use cylindrical rollers for line contact, providing higher load capacity but slightly higher friction and lower speed capability.

How often should linear ball bearings be lubricated?

Standard intervals: Every 3-6 months for general applications, or every 100-500 km of travel. High-speed or contaminated environments require more frequent lubrication (monthly). Use ISO VG 32-68 grease or equivalent.

Can ball bearings handle moment loads in linear guides?

Yes, precision linear guide systems with four-row ball bearing arrangements can handle moment loads (pitch, yaw, roll) through load distribution across multiple bearing points. Moment capacity is specified in manufacturer catalogs.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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