What Are Ball Bearings?

Ball bearings are one of the most commonly used types of rolling-element bearings. They are designed to reduce friction and support both radial and axial loads. Using hardened steel balls between an inner and outer ring, these bearings ensure smooth rotation and high efficiency across a wide range of industrial and commercial applications.

Types of Ball Bearings

  • Deep Groove Ball Bearings: Versatile, high-speed bearings used in motors, gearboxes, and general machinery.

  • Angular Contact Ball Bearings: Engineered for combined loads, commonly used in high-speed and precision machines.

  • Self-Aligning Ball Bearings: Accommodate misalignment, suitable for long shafts and flexible mountings.

  • Thrust Ball Bearings: Designed to carry axial loads, ideal for low-speed vertical applications.

  • Miniature Ball Bearings: Compact and accurate, used in instruments, robotics, and precision equipment.

  • Double Row Ball Bearings: Higher load capacity than single-row, used in more demanding environments.

Applications

Ball bearings are widely used in:

  • Electric motors and pumps

  • Industrial automation equipment

  • Automotive and aerospace systems

  • Household appliances

  • Medical and dental instruments

  • Robotics and motion control

Top Brands for Ball Bearings

We supply ball bearings from many of the world’s leading manufacturers. The following brands are particularly known for their high-quality ball bearing solutions across various applications:

  • FAG: Renowned for precision-engineered deep groove and angular contact ball bearings.
  • FAFNIR: Specialized in precision ball bearings for aerospace, industrial, and automotive uses.
  • IKO: Known for miniature and precision ball bearings used in robotics and automation.
  • INA: Offers a wide range of ball bearings including radial and axial types.
  • KOYO: Produces deep groove, angular contact, and self-aligning ball bearings.
  • NACHI: Manufactures durable ball bearings for heavy-duty and industrial applications.
  • NSK: One of the largest ball bearing producers, widely used in electric motors and machinery.
  • RHP: Provides reliable ball bearings for general engineering and OEM needs.
  • SKF: A global leader in deep groove and high-performance ball bearing technologies.
  • THK: While famous for linear motion products, also offers specialty ball bearing units.
  • TIMKEN: Although best known for tapered bearings, it also offers high-performance ball bearings.

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