Bearings are essential parts and are applied in various machines, not to mention industry, but in vehicles and even in the domestic gadgets. As an experienced engineer or a novice to the world of mechanical systems, it is important to know bearing numbers and their meanings to make sure that the right part is chosen and used properly.
Within this guide, we shall be looking at the meaning of bearing numbers and how they can be read and what they can say about the specifications of the bearing. You will find by the conclusion of this blog a better idea of how to determine the right bearing of your requirements.
What is a Bearing Number?
Bearing number is a special mark, a code a bearing manufacturer provides to a bearing to indicate significant information regarding the design, size and type of the bearing. Such figures assist the engineers and mechanics to locate bearings fast in accordance with their needs without necessarily viewing all the details manually.
The bearing number will normally contain several digits each of which denotes a certain attribute of bearing. These numbers are universal and it is thus easy to obtain bearings of various manufacturers world over. The format of the bearing number may differ with the manufacturer, but the format is usually of a standard format, which gives valuable information on how the type of bearing is constructed and what the bearing is intended to be.
How to Read Bearing Numbers
Bearing numbers might be a difficult task to read initially, but they are not very difficult once you decompose them. To get to know the main elements, let us observe a general example.
An example is the bearing number, 6205-2RS:
- 6: This figure represents the type of bearing. The "6" normally represents one deep groove ball bearing on a single row, and this is one of the most used ones.
- 2: This figure is the bearing series, that is the general size of the bearing. A medium-sized bearing is mentioned repeatedly in this case as a 2.
- 05: The two figures are the bore diameter of the bearing in millimeters. In the case, the bore has a diameter of 25 mm (this is determined by multiplying the two figures by 5).
- 2RS: This suffix is used to indicate the nature of sealing where 2RS indicates that there are two rubber seals on the bearing that will prevent it getting dirty, moist or contaminated.
Ordinary Bearing Number Codes and Meanings
Bearing numbers are accompanied by diverse suffixes and prefixes which give more specific details. The most typical ones are as follows:
- ZZ or 2Z: Metal shields on both sides.
- RS or 2RS: Bears seals of rubber on either side.
- C3: A clearance rating which means that the bearing has a slightly greater internal clearance to allow increased lubrication and thermal expansion.
- S 2RSR: This suffix represents a bearing in which there is a rubber seal upon one side, and a metal shield upon the other.
- N: A bearing having an outer ring.
- E: A bearing that is reinforced in internal geometry to provide a larger load carrying capacity.
Knowing these prefixes and suffixes will give you a notion of how the bearing is used, its type of sealing, and it may even tell you how long it may last.
How to identify Bearing Sizes and Bearings Sizes.
The size is one of the most significant items of information in a bearing number. The bore diameter is normally denoted by the final numbers of the bearing number and typically signifies the size. Bearing size is very crucial when you require an accurate fit in your machine or device.
The bearing size may be read through the following:
1. First Two Digits: This normally denotes the bearing type or series.
2. Next Two Digits: These indicate the bore size of the bearing. One example of these is that in a bearing number such as 6205, the number 20 is an expression of a bore diameter of 25mm (20x5=25).
3. Suffix: The suffix represents certain information like type of a seal or internal clearance.
An example would be an announcement such as 6308-2RS would mean:
- A deep groove ball bearing (6)
- A medium size bearing (3)
- A bore diameter of 40mm (08)
- Rubber seals on both sides (2RS)
The Significance of Bearing Number Identification
Proper bearing number recognition is a necessity due to a number of reasons:
1. Compatibility: There is compatibility as the bearing number should be compatible with the necessary size and type to avoid compatibility problems that may cause equipment failure.
2. Efficiency: With the right bearing, there will be less friction and this will enhance the overall machine performance.
3. Longevity: The proper bearing depending on the number of the bearing can help to increase the life of your machinery as it avoids unnecessary wear and tear.
The Importance of Learning the Bearing Numbers
The interpretation of the meaning of bearing numbers is not a theoretical issue alone but it is a very important issue to have the right bearing depending on the purpose you want it. Reading these numbers will enable you to determine the correct bearing type, size and other important specifications which directly determine the performance and life of your machinery.
Proper bearing recognition assists in the attainment of a number of major outcomes. To begin with, it guarantees ease of compatibility between the bearing and your equipment. The improper fit of mechanical failure or inefficient operation may result due to the use of the wrong bearing. Also, it is possible to choose the right bearing according to its number and this will lead to efficiency and less friction thereby performing better on the overall machine performance. Finally, yet importantly, there is longevity. Correct bearings will assist in avoiding untimely wear and tear and therefore your equipment will have a longer life and be more reliable.
As a company in Bearmax USA, we have realized the role played by bearing number identification in enabling your machinery to perform at its optimum level. We also offer high quality bearings having clear and easy to read codes and hence you can be assured of having the right bearing to use in your application. Through the knowledge of bearing numbers, you will be able to make informed decisions.
