What is a self-aligning ball bearing?
Self-aligning ball bearings, also known as swivel bearings or swivel roller bearings, are double-row
ball bearings according to
DIN 630, consisting of an inner ring with a common raceway and an outer ring characterised by a hollow spherical design.
Functionality of a self-aligning ball bearing
Due to the lower degree of osculation of the rolling elements on the outer ring compared to single-row rolling bearings, self-aligning ball bearings can absorb
slightly higher loads. How much the ball bearings can accommodate in an axial direction depends on the respective pressure angle. The raceway of the outer ring has a hollow spherical shape, which means that the inner ring can be pivoted with the balls around the centre point of the self-aligning ball bearing within certain tolerances while rotating at the same time. Pivoting is possible without the creation of any additional friction.
Areas of application for self-aligning ball bearings
Due to the hollow shape of the outer ring and the resulting angular mobility, the self-aligning ball bearings are used in applications with larger misalignments, shaft deflections and misalignments.
When is a self-aligning ball bearing (pivoting roller bearing) the right choice for my application?
- When a large pivoting angle is required
- Compensation for shaft deflection caused by installation and machining errors
- Applications where lead screws must be supported and a small axial runout plays a role
Advantages of self-aligning ball bearings
In contrast to a standard single-row ball bearing, the raceways of the self-aligning ball bearings are not limited laterally in the outer ring. The self-aligning ball bearings can therefore pivot freely laterally in the outer ring. As a result, there is no increase in friction when a tilting moment occurs in the limiting area of the outer rings.
Our polymer bearings are 100% lubricant-free, lightweight and corrosion-free. The self-aligning ball bearings/swivel bearings not only absorb shaft misalignments of up to 4°, but also absorb slightly increased loads due to the double ball raceway.
Tips for selecting and caring for self-aligning ball bearings
Self-aligning ball bearings are easy to care for because,
in contrast to conventional rolling bearings, they require no lubrication. In contrast to the aforementioned alternatives, it is absolutely essential to lubricate metal bearings. Without proper lubrication, these bearings would quickly
rust and deform in use due to the high frictional forces and lack of cooling, which in the worst case could lead to the bearing becoming blocked. Lubrication is of crucial importance, particularly in sealed ball bearings, as otherwise the plastic or rubber seals can become porous. This can lead to lubricating oils escaping
and the bearing operating dry. Stainless metal ball bearings do not rust, but they are considerably more expensive than plastic solutions. Due to their 100% lubrication-free properties, our plastic ball bearings can be rinsed with no fuss and cleaned with compressed air, which leads to
significantly longer maintenance intervals and
saves costs.
Our self-aligning ball bearings can be bought in three installation sizes for shaft diameters 10, 12 and 20mm. They are available from stock.
