Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using Spherical Roller Bearings?

Spherical Roller Bearings offer self-alignment, high load capacity, durability, and reduced maintenance. They adjust to misalignment, support heavy radial and axial loads, and are able to withstand harsh conditions. Additionally, the robust design of Spherical Roller Bearings reduces the need for frequent maintenance, saving both time and money.

How do I choose the right Spherical Roller Bearing for my application?

To choose the right Spherical Roller Bearing, consider load requirements, speed ratings, and environmental conditions. Ensure proper mounting and alignment capabilities. Choose a reputable brand such SKF, NSK, Timken, and others stocked at Quality Bearings Online, for enhanced reliability and longevity. Our experts are available to help you select the best bearing for your needs.

What is a Spherical Roller Bearing used for?

Spherical Roller Bearings are used in applications where high radial and axial loads are present. Their design features two rows of barrel-shaped rollers that allow them to accommodate misalignment and provide robust support. They are commonly used in heavy-duty machinery such as industrial crushers, mining equipment, conveyor systems, and wind turbines.

Should I choose a Spherical Roller Bearing or Taper Roller Bearing?

The choice depends on the application. Spherical Roller Bearings handle high radial loads and misalignment. Taper Roller Bearings on the other hand are better for precise axial and radial load control, suitable for applications like automotive wheel hubs. The best option depends on whether you need to manage misalignment and high radial loads or precise load control.

Features Of Spherical Roller Bearings

Symmetrical Rollers

The rollers in Spherical Roller Bearings are essential and play a large part in the bearings’ performance. Rollers in general increase a bearings load capacity by distributing the load along the roller length. This is because, in comparison to balls, the rollers have a greater surface contact with the inner and outer race. The rollers in these bearings also self-adjust which helps with load distribution as well.

Misalignment

By design, spherical roller bearings are self-aligning, meaning they are insensitive to misalignment caused by shaft deflection. This is due to the spherical shape of the rollers and the spherical inner profile of the outer race.

Vibratory Applications

SKF and FAG each have a line of Spherical Roller Bearings for vibratory applications. The bearings have the same basic dimensions and performance, but they also have C4 internal radial clearance as standard. The suffixes for this spec are VA405 and T41D respectively.

Lubrication

Spherical Roller Bearings typically have an annular groove and lubrication holes. For SKF, this now comes as standard in the E design bearings so there is no suffix required, and this is also true for all of the FAG Spherical Roller Bearings.

Sealed Type

Sealed Spherical Roller Bearings have a contact seal that is reinforced with a sheet steel insert on both sides. SKF offers these seals in three different materials, each with a slightly different suffix. The sealed type bearings use a minimal about of lubricant and require lower maintenance and the open type.

SKF currently has the widest range of Spherical Roller Bearings on the market ranging in size from 20mm to 1800mm internal diameter.