Thin Section Bearings - Why are there 3 different types?

Preston, WA (NPB eNews) Feb 2010

Silver Thin precision thin section bearings are used in numerous exotic and high tech applications. Made entirely in the USA, they provide precision and performance in applications such as robotics, aerospace, machine tools, semiconductor manufacturing and medical equipment. Applications requiring thin profiles are ideal for thin section bearings. Thin section bearings are specified in areas requiring design efficiency, high precision and minimal space. They are available in bore sizes from 1” to 36” with cross sections from 3/16 to 1”. Stainless steel and sealed versions are also available to meet specific application requirements. Silver Thin bearings are manufactured in three different types.

C-Type Bearings

The C-Type - Is a “Radial Contact” type of conventional bearing design. It has a single row of balls which allows for Conrad-type assembly. The C-Type is most commonly used among the three thin section types. Although the radial type is used primarily in applications with radial loads, it can withstand moderate axial and reversing loads as well as moment loads.

A-Type Bearings

The A-Type - Is an “Angular Contact” type bearing with a reduced shoulder on one side of the inner or outer race ball path. These bearings accept radial loads and single direction thrust loads. The A-Type requires an application of thrust to establish the appropriate race and ball contact angle. These bearings are commonly used in pairs for applications requiring axial loads in one direction or for reversing axial loads. They provide the appropriate stability, load capacity and repeatability needed in applications requiring higher speeds than the C-Type.

X-Type Bearings

The X-Type - Is a “4-Point Contact” bearing used where a high level of rigidity is required. This bearing can accept radial and thrust loads in either direction. They are also extremely effective with high moment loads. X-Type bearings are designed with gothic raceways creating 4 contact points between each ball and the raceway. Preloading will provide for additional precision and rigidity of movement. X-Type bearings may be able to replace two thin section bearings in many applications.

Thin section bearings are specified in areas requiring design efficiency, high precision and minimal space. Creating space and saving weight are also two key considerations when selecting thin section bearings. If you have minimal space, but require rotating movement, the National Precision Bearing Group’s Technical Sales Specialists will assist you in the selection of an appropriate thin section type for your application.

Access the Silverthin thin bearing selection guide.

Contact Information
Dave Coffer
Technical Sales Specialist
National Precision Bearing Group

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