Pivot Bearings: Inner Diameter 5-100 mm, Width 4-30 mm

Component Specifications

Definition

Pivot bearings are specialized rotary bearings designed to support rotational motion around a fixed axis in gimbal and pivot assemblies. They provide precise angular positioning, load distribution, and smooth rotation while maintaining structural stability. These bearings typically feature low-friction interfaces, high radial stiffness, and minimal axial play to ensure accurate motion control in applications requiring controlled tilting, panning, or oscillating movements.

Working Principle

Pivot bearings operate on the principle of reducing friction between rotating and stationary surfaces through rolling elements (balls or rollers) or sliding surfaces. They maintain precise alignment between the pivot axis and bearing centerline, distributing radial and axial loads while allowing smooth angular rotation. The bearing's internal geometry ensures consistent contact angles and preload to minimize backlash and maintain positional accuracy during dynamic motion.

Materials

Bearing rings: Chrome steel (AISI 52100/SUJ2), stainless steel (AISI 440C/304), or ceramic (Si3N4). Rolling elements: Chrome steel balls, ceramic balls, or cylindrical rollers. Retainers: Brass, steel, or polymer (PEEK, PTFE). Seals: Nitrile rubber, fluorocarbon, or metal shields.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Width	4-30 mm
Clearance	C2-C5 (ISO)
Speed Rating	Up to 10,000 rpm
Load Capacity	Radial: 1-50 kN, Axial: 0.5-25 kN
Inner Diameter	5-100 mm
Outer Diameter	10-150 mm
Precision Grade	ABEC 1-7 (ISO P0-P2)
Operating Temperature	-40°C to +120°C

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 15, ISO 76, ISO 281, DIN 625, DIN 628

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Gimbal/Pivot Assembly

A mechanical assembly that provides multi-axis rotational freedom for precise angular positioning.

View Product Details

Gimbal Mechanism

A mechanical assembly that allows a joystick to pivot freely in multiple directions while maintaining precise control input.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Bearing seizure due to inadequate lubrication
Premature wear from misalignment
Corrosion in harsh environments
Backlash development from improper preload

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Insufficient or contaminated lubrication
Failure: Increased friction, overheating, and eventual bearing seizure
Mitigation: Implement scheduled lubrication maintenance, use proper seals, and monitor bearing temperature

Trigger: Shaft/housing misalignment exceeding 0.05°
Failure: Uneven load distribution leading to premature wear and reduced accuracy
Mitigation: Ensure precise machining of mounting surfaces, use alignment tools during installation

Trigger: Excessive axial or radial loads beyond rated capacity
Failure: Brinelling, spalling, or catastrophic bearing failure
Mitigation: Properly calculate application loads, include safety factors, and select bearings with appropriate load ratings

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

ISO 492:2014 (Radial bearings - Tolerances), DIN 620:1994 (Rolling bearing tolerances)

Test Method

ISO 15242:2017 (Rotating bearing vibration measurement), ISO 76:2006 (Static load rating calculation)

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 Pivot Bearings

Manufacturer profiles associated with Pivot Bearings.

Sourcing Pivot Bearings from China?

Tell us your specification and target quantity — we will match it against manufacturer records and come back with the factories that fit.

Request manufacturers We manufacture this

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

Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review

Related Components

Mounting Interface

Precision mounting interface connecting punch tips to pharmaceutical tablet press machines for accurate tablet production.

Chrome Plating

Hard chrome plating is an electroplating process that deposits a layer of chromium onto metal surfaces to enhance wear resistance, corrosion protection, and reduce friction for hydraulic cylinder piston rods.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between pivot bearings and standard radial bearings?

Pivot bearings are optimized for angular motion with specific preload and stiffness characteristics for precise positioning, while standard radial bearings are designed primarily for continuous rotation with different load distribution profiles.

How do I select the right pivot bearing for my gimbal application?

Consider load requirements (radial/axial), speed, precision grade, environmental conditions, and mounting constraints. Consult bearing catalogs for specific dynamic/static load ratings and match to your application's torque and stiffness requirements.

What maintenance do pivot bearings require?

Regular lubrication with appropriate grease (NLGI grade 1-2) or oil, periodic inspection for wear/contamination, and proper sealing to prevent ingress of debris. Sealed bearings typically require less maintenance.

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.

Pivot Bearings