What is self-align ball bearing?

Self-Aligning Ball Bearing

Self-aligning ball bearings are specifically designed for situations where aligning the shaft and housing is a challenge or when there is a possibility of shaft bending. These bearings feature an outer ring with a spherical raceway, whose center of curvature aligns with the bearing's center. This unique design permits the inner ring, balls, and cage to rotate freely around the center of the bearing. Typically, pressed steel cages are employed for this type of bearing to enhance durability.

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One key characteristic of self-aligning ball bearings is their low axial load capacity, primarily due to their small contact angle. They can accommodate a dynamic misalignment of around 0.07 to 0.12 radians (4 to 7 degrees) under standard load conditions. However, such misalignments may not be feasible based on the constraints of the surrounding structure.

Features

• Correction for Misalignment: The configuration allows for permissible dynamic misalignment, ensuring optimal performance between 0.07 to 0.12 radians.
• Adaptability for Challenging Mountings: These bearings excel in applications where the shaft may bend or where alignment with the housing is difficult, as is often the case with transmission shafts.

What is a Self-Aligning Bearing?

Self-aligning bearings are different from conventional bearings in that they feature a unique design: the inner ring possesses two raceways while the outer ring contains a single spherical raceway. This configuration, where the center of curvature aligns with the bearing axis, enables the inner components to adjust for misalignment easily caused by installation errors or housing and shaft machining discrepancies.

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According to Paul Brda, an Application Engineer at NSK Americas, standard ball bearings only have a single raceway groove on both the inner and outer rings, making them the most common type of rolling bearings.

Why Choose Self-Aligning Bearings?

Opting for self-aligning bearings is ideal when alignment difficulties or potential shaft bending during operation may arise. Brda identifies that these bearings, similar to deep groove ball bearings, serve general usage purposes effectively.

Interchangeability with Standard Ball Bearing Assemblies

Most self-aligning bearings can typically interchange with standard ball bearing assemblies; however, it largely depends on the series. While direct interchanges may exist, some self-aligning bearings may feature a wider design or a tapered bore that needs consideration.

Selection and Installation Guidelines

When selecting a bearing, it is crucial to consider the specific load, speed, and space limitations of the application. Moreover, the extent of misalignment or potential shaft bending should also inform the choice of bearing type. Adhering to normal mounting and handling procedures for cylindrical bore bearings is advisable, while extra caution is recommended for those with tapered bores to ensure correct installation.

To ensure the right match between the bearing and its application, verifying your application needs with your chosen vendor is essential.