Miniature bearings
People sometimes refer to miniature bearings as instrument bearings or micro bearings. Their compact size and exceptional performance characteristics make them essential components in many industries. They are used in applications as varied as gyros, anemometers, flow meters, miniature gearboxes, small motors and radio controlled models.
Ball bearings are usually made of chrome steel, which is a great choice because of its strength, low-noise characteristics, and affordability. Our chrome steel range of mini ball bearings are available with a flange on the outer ring as shown in Products Variants below.
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Advantages of Miniature Bearings
Miniature bearings are highly engineered precision components that play a crucial role in various applications where size and performance are critical. Their main advantages include: Space-Saving Design (Compact Size): They are specifically designed to fit into applications with extremely limited space, enabling smaller, more innovative, and efficient product designs. Example: Used in medical devices, dental drills, and small robotics. Low Friction and High Efficiency: They are engineered to minimize friction between moving parts, leading to reduced energy loss and increased mechanical efficiency. This also contributes to lower heat generation and longer equipment life. High Precision and Accuracy: Miniature bearings are manufactured to high-precision tolerances (often ABEC grades), ensuring accurate, precise, and smooth rotational or linear movement. This is essential for instrumentation and high-tech applications. Ability to Handle High Speeds: Due to their design and precision manufacturing, many types of miniature bearings are capable of operating reliably at very high rotational speeds with low noise and vibration.
Operating condition considerations for miniature chrome steel bearings
Chrome steel bearings can handle temperatures up to 120°C when used continuously, with a steel retainer and proper lubrication. They can also be used up to 150°C intermittently. At temperatures above a certain level, the strength of chrome steel bearings decreases and they experience more of a size change compared to stainless steel. Chrome steel is not ideal for use in corrosive environments, as it does not have corrosion resistance. To protect against moisture, miniature chrome steel bearings are coated with a preventive oil. We do not suggest using chrome steel ball bearings without lubrication (dry) because they are prone to rusting.
This can even happen when they are not in use or while they are in transit due to condensation forming inside the packaging. You cannot apply the protective oil to a dry bearing. The oil would potentially find its way inside the bearing making it no longer “dry”.
Compact Size
They have a small outer diameter (often under $20 \text{mm}$) allowing for space-saving and miniaturization in precision equipment.
High Speed Capability
Designed for high precision, they can operate efficiently at very high rotational speeds.
High Precision & Low Noise
They are manufactured to high tolerance standards (e.g., P5 or better), ensuring smooth operation and minimal noise/vibration.
Versatility in Harsh Environments
Available in specialized materials to offer good resistance to heat, corrosion, and wear.
Quality Miniature bearings
Open bearings are supplied with a light oil lubrication. Shielded or sealed bearings are usually supplied with grease lubrication. However, shielded bearings can be offered with instrument oil for low speed, low friction applications. Thanks to our in-house relubrication facility, these miniature bearings can be offered with customer specified oils, greases or dry lubricants.
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