How to Choose a Bearing

How to choose the right bearing for your application:

1.Find the Bearing Load & Load Capacity

First, know the type and amount of bearing load that your application will place on the bearing. Small-to-medium-sized loads usually work best with ball bearings. Heavy load applications usually work best with roller bearings.

2.Know the Rotational Speed of Your Application

Determine the rotational speed of your application. High speeds (RPM) usually work best with ball bearings and lower speeds usually work best with roller bearings.

3.Factor in Bearing Runout & Rigidity

You also want to determine what kind of runout your application will allow. If the application allows only small deviations to occur, then a ball bearing is most likely your best choice.

4.Find the Right Lubrication for Your Bearings Needs

For high-speed applications, calculate your DN Value (a number that is used to determine the correct base oil viscosity for the lubrication of various types of bearings), and if it’s higher than the grease max speed, then the grease won’t be able to provide sufficient lubrication. There are other options like oil misting. For low-speed applications, an oil bath is a good choice.