A thin section ball bearing differs from a standard ball bearing in more ways than you might think. It’s not just about the size, or thinness, of the bearing’s cross-section. Rather, it’s about the relationship, or ratio, of the cross-section to the bore. Thin section bearings are also used in different applications and have their own product series. This article provides an overview of what engineers need to know.
Cross-Sections and Bearing Bores
With standard ball bearings, the cross-section changes in proportion to the bore size. In other words, as the size of a bearing bore increases, the cross-section increases proportionately. With thin section ball bearings, the cross-section stays the same regardless of changes to the bore size. In other words, larger bore sizes don’t have large cross-sections. Consequently, thin section bearings seem thinner.
The table below shows how the cross-section for a group of thin section ball bearings stays the same as the bore size increases.
Thin Section Bearings | |
Bore (in.) | Cross-Section (in.) |
2.0000 | 0.250 |
2.5000 | 0.250 |
3.0000 | 0.250 |
3.5000 | 0.250 |
4.0000 | 0.250 |
Thin Section Ball Bearing Applications
Thin section bearings are used in applications where space is limited or weight is an important design consideration. Applications include the Gimbal platforms in the optical and targeting system on naval vessels and military aircraft. Thin section ball bearings are also used where wiring or tubing passes through the bore of a hollow shaft or other configuration.
Space and weight aren’t the only reasons to use a thin section bearing, however. These motion control products can also reduce friction and prevent torque loss. Consequently, their applications include work-holding devices such as turntables and indexing and rotary tables. Thin section bearings are also used in articulating parts such as the joints of robotic arms. In addition, they are used in medical, semiconductor, and many other applications.
Get Answers to Thin Bearing Questions
Do you have technical questions about thin section ball bearings? Then request “System Integration of Thin Section Ball Bearings”, a free white paper from Schatz Bearing Corporation. Click here to request this resource from the leader in Made in USA thin section ball bearings.
