Needle Bearings: Roller Diameter 1-6 mm, Roller Length 5-30 mm

Component Specifications

Definition

Needle bearings are a specialized type of roller bearing characterized by long, thin cylindrical rollers with a high length-to-diameter ratio, designed to handle high radial loads in applications with severe space constraints. In universal joints, they facilitate smooth rotational motion between connected shafts while accommodating angular misalignment and transmitting torque efficiently.

Working Principle

Needle bearings operate by distributing radial loads across multiple small-diameter rollers that roll between inner and outer raceways, minimizing friction and wear. In universal joints, they enable the articulation of the joint by allowing the cross or trunnion to rotate smoothly within the yoke ears, maintaining constant velocity transmission despite shaft angle variations.

Materials

Typically made from case-hardened alloy steel (e.g., AISI 8620, 4320) or through-hardened bearing steel (e.g., AISI 52100). Rollers are precision-ground and often coated with phosphate or other treatments for run-in protection. Cages may be steel, brass, or polymer (e.g., PA66).

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Max Speed	500-10000 rpm
Roller Length	5-30 mm
Roller Diameter	1-6 mm
Radial Clearance	C2 to CN normal
Static Load Rating	3-30 kN
Dynamic Load Rating	5-50 kN
Operating Temperature	-30°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 3030, DIN 617, ISO 492, DIN 5402

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Universal Joint

A mechanical joint that allows rotational power transmission between shafts at varying angles.

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Cross/Yoke Assembly

The central rotating component of a universal joint that transmits torque between shafts at varying angles.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Inadequate lubrication leading to premature wear
Contamination from dirt or moisture causing abrasive damage
Overloading beyond dynamic rating causing brinelling or spalling
Misalignment exceeding design limits accelerating fatigue

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Lubrication starvation due to seal failure or improper maintenance
Failure: Increased friction, overheating, and adhesive wear (scuffing) on rollers and raceways
Mitigation: Use high-quality seals, implement scheduled lubrication, monitor grease condition, and apply corrosion-resistant coatings

Trigger: Hard particle contamination entering bearing assembly
Failure: Abrasive wear, indentation (brinelling), and reduced fatigue life
Mitigation: Improve sealing systems, maintain clean assembly environments, use filtration in lubrication systems, and apply protective covers during storage

Trigger: Excessive radial load or shock loads beyond design capacity
Failure: Plastic deformation (brinelling), roller fracture, or raceway cracking
Mitigation: Properly size bearings for application loads, incorporate load-limiting devices, avoid impact loads, and use bearings with higher dynamic ratings

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

ISO tolerance class 6 for roller diameter, ABEC 1 or ISO P0 for bearing precision, radial runout typically within 0.02-0.05 mm

Test Method

ISO 15242 for vibration testing, ISO 281 for life rating calculation, ASTM D4172 for wear prevention characteristics of lubricating greases, DIN 51805 for grease corrosion protection testing

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 Needle Bearings

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

Zhejiang Waxing Electromechanical Co., Ltd.

Zhejiang, CN

Also makes: Universal Joint, Linear Bearing, Housing / Pillow Block and 8 more

Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Listed there as: “BK1212 needle bearings Inquire”
View source page ↗ wxingbearing.com · checked 2026-08-30

View profile Send enquiry

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are needle bearings used in universal joints instead of ball bearings?

Needle bearings offer higher radial load capacity in a smaller cross-section, which is critical for the compact design of universal joints. They also provide better durability under oscillating motions and misalignment typical in driveline applications.

How often should universal joint needle bearings be lubricated?

Lubrication intervals depend on application severity. For automotive U-joints, factory-sealed bearings are often maintenance-free, but industrial applications may require greasing every 500-2000 operating hours. Always follow OEM specifications.

What are common signs of needle bearing failure in universal joints?

Symptoms include vibration (especially under acceleration), audible clicking or clunking noises, excessive play in the joint, visible wear or pitting on rollers, and grease leakage from seals.

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.

Needle Bearings