Rolling bearing steel

Rolling-Element Bearings Steel

Rolling-element bearings are composed of two basic parts, the inner and outer raceways. The inner raceway, also called the inner track, contains a series of rolling elements positioned between two concentric metal rings or cones. The raceways, rings, and rolling elements are typically made of steel, which is one of the most common material combinations used in the production of rolling-element bearings. Steel rolling-element bearings are used in a wide range of applications, in industries as diverse as aerospace and oil and gas production. This article examines the various types of steel used in the production of rolling-element bearings, as well as the different types of production processes employed to fabricate them.

There are many different types of steel used in the production of rolling-element bearings. Depending on the application for which the bearings are destined, steel of different strength, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and electrical or thermal conductivity properties is chosen. Longer-life steel alloys, for instance, may be used for rolling-element bearings designed for heavy-duty applications. Commonly used steels for rolling-element bearing production include low-carbon steels; stainless steels; low-alloy steels; high-strength steels; and specialty steels such as tooling, bearing and chromium steels.

To ensure the highest levels of quality, rolling-element bearing manufacturers typically employ several different production processes. Steel in the form of flat stock, round bar, and split rods are used to fabricate the bearing components typically by machining, casting, and/or forging. Utilizing computer numerical control (CNC) machines, complex geometrical shapes with exacting tolerance levels can be created. After machining, components are finish ground to even closer tolerances.

In addition to machining and finishing, the components of a steel rolling-element bearing are also subjected to heat treating processes. Heat-treating can improve and correct mechanical and physical properties of the bearing components, such as hardness and strength, wear resistance, corrosion and oxidation resistance, and dimensional stability. Common types of heat treats employed in bearing production include through-hardening, soft-annealing, carburizing and nitriding.

Steel rolling-element bearings can also be produced by specialized production processes, including, but not limited to, hot isostatic pressing (HIP), where a powder bearing material is encapsulated and exposed to an isostatic pressure at high temperatures to improve the wear and fatigue resistance of the bearing components; and hot-oil rolling, which employs heat and pressure to produce thin-walled bearing rings with excellent wear, fatigue and wear-recoverability performance.

Steel rolling-element bearings can play an important role in the success of an application, as they are an integral part of a system’s performance and life. As such, bearings should be chosen and designed with a great deal of consideration given to the material and production process. Understanding the different types of steel and production processes available, and how they affect the performance and cost of a bearing, can help to ensure that the right bearing is chosen for any application and the maximum performance and life can be achieved.

Rolling bearings are comprised of bearing rings, rolling elements, cages, and seals. The inner rings have raceways with the rolling elements and the outer ring has a larger and flatter surface than the inner ring. The rolling bearing provides smooth and effortless motion for rotational and linear applications.

The rolling bearing is composed of steel and can be used for decades if treated properly. While different ball and roller bearings can work in different conditions, all are composed of hardened steel and require a lubricant to keep them working correctly. Steel is a malleable metal and can resist heat, vibrations, and rust. These features make it perfect for ball or roller bearings.

Steel rolling bearings are ideal for high speed applications and are the most popular. The round bearing balls or cylinders help to keep motors, transmissions, and other parts functioning efficiently. Tests of steel rolling bearings in various applications show that they can handle heavy duty tasks and long-term exposure to harsh conditions.

Steel rolling bearings are also used in many low-speed applications. For example, wheeled carts, conveyor systems, and other equipment often use rolling bearings as part of the design. The bearings in these cases may need to be maintained more often than those in high-speed applications because motion is less intense.

Steel rolling bearings are considered one of the most durable and versatile types of bearings available. Tests of their performance in a variety of applications indicate that they work reliably and consistently. The hardened steel and the lubricating oil needed to maintain them ensure their long-term use. Steel rolling bearings are the ideal choice for both high and low-speed applications.