In the United States, the purpose of bearing steel is to provide an efficient, safe and reliable support structure for the safe and reliable operation of motor vehicles. Bearing steel is designed for high efficiency and is generally composed of high or ultra-high carbon steel. The steel grades used for bearings are usually designated as SAE-AISI52100, SAE-AISI52100/298, and SAE-AISI52100/303.
52100 Bearing Steel
SAE-AISI52100 bearing steel is a high-carbon chromium alloy steel. The addition of chromium to the alloy provides a steel with exceptional hardness, wear resistance and fatigue resistance. It is commonly used for high stress applications such as bearings, gears, shafts and cams. This steel is heat treatable and can be flame or induction hardened to achieve its high hardness and wear resistance.
SAE-AISI52100/298 Bearing Steel
This steel grade is a new modification to the standard 52100 grade. It is composed of slightly modified chemistry specifically designed for the use in rolling element bearings. It provides increased machinability and improved dimensional accuracy with improved corrosion resistance and increased fatigue strength.
SAE-AISI52100/303 Bearing Steel
This steel grade is composed of the same 52100 chemistry with the addition of sulfur and tellurium which can provide improved hardenability and machinability. This steel grade is suitable for induction hardening, flame hardening, and heat treatment for enhanced wear resistance.
Applications
Bearings are manufactured from bearing steel for a variety of applications, including automobiles, motorcycles, farm equipment, aircraft and spacecraft for heavy-duty applications. The bearings made from bearing steel are generally used for the following applications:
Automobile Parts: Bearings are used in all automobile parts from the transmission and suspension systems, to the brakes and wheels. Aircraft and spacecraft: Bearing steels are used in aircraft and spacecraft applications, such as bearings in engines, hydraulic valves, pumps, and more.
Farm Equipment: Bearings are used in all types of farm equipment, such as tractors, combines, and harvesters to ensure the equipment runs smoothly.
Tips for Selecting Bearing Steel
When selecting bearing steel for a particular application, there are a few important factors to consider:
1. Hardness:This is the most important factor to consider when selecting bearing steel. The hardness of the steel will determine its wear resistance and fatigue strength.
2. Corrosion Resistance: Bearing steel is exposed to a variety of corrosive elements, so it is important to choose a steel that has good corrosion resistance.
3. Machinability: Bearing steel must be machined to achieve its desired shape, so it is important to choose a steel that is easily machinable.
Conclusion
Bearings are an essential part of any motor vehicle, so it is important to select the right bearing steel for the application. Bearing steel is composed of a variety of elements and grades, such as 52100, 52100/298 and 52100/303, and each one offers different benefits. Factors such as hardness, corrosion resistance, and machinability must be considered when selecting the best steel for the application.
