Ball Bearings

Ball bearings, also known as bearings and journal bearings, are important mechanical components used in a wide range of applications. They are an integral part of various machines and mechanisms, from small household appliances to large industrial equipment.

RS NZ offers a comprehensive selection of high-quality ball bearings in a variety of sizes and ratings. Choose from our range of standard open bearings or opt for our sealed or shielded bearings for more challenging applications where added protection is required.

How do Ball Bearings work?

Ball bearings are precision-engineered components specifically designed to enable rotational or linear motion by reducing friction between two moving parts. They consist of a set of small, spherical balls housed within a ring or raceway. These balls distribute the load evenly, allowing for efficient, low-friction movement.

The primary purpose of ball bearings is to support radial and axial loads while minimising friction and wear, thereby extending the lifespan, and enhancing the efficiency of mechanical systems. For more in-depth information please refer to our Ball Bearings Guide.

Material used in Ball Bearings

The materials used in ball bearings play a crucial role in their performance, durability, and longevity. Here's a look at some common materials and their importance:

• High-Grade Steel: Typically made from chrome steel or carbon steel, high-grade steel is the most common material used for ball bearings. Its strength, hardness, and resistance to wear and corrosion offer excellent performance in many everyday applications.
• Ceramic: Ceramic ball bearings, which are made from silicon nitride, offer exceptional hardness, low friction, and high-temperature resistance. They are lightweight and non-magnetic, making them suitable for high-speed applications, extreme environments, and specialised equipment where traditional steel bearings may not be suitable.
• Plastic: Often made from materials like nylon or PTFE (Teflon), plastic ball bearings offer excellent corrosion resistance, low friction, and quiet operation. They are lightweight and often used in applications where low load capacity and moderate speeds are required, such as in toys, small appliances, and food processing equipment.

Types of Ball Bearing

There are four main types of ball bearings used in the industry today. They are:

Deep Groove Ball Bearings

Deep Groove Ball Bearings are one of the most used ball bearing types. They have a simple design and are easy to maintain. Deep groove ball bearings can manage both radial and axial loads in both directions and are ideal for use when a higher load capacity is required. Deep groove ball bearings are available in two variants, single row, or double row.

Angular Contact Ball Bearings

Angular Contact Ball Bearings have a contact angle that enables forces to be transferred from one raceway to another at a specific angle. Ideal for handling combined radial and axial loads, these bearings have an angled raceway that allows them to support thrust in addition to radial forces. Angular contact bearings are available in two variants, single-row, or double-row.

Self Aligning Ball Bearings

Self-Aligning Ball Bearings work in a similar way to standard ball bearings but feature two rows of balls which help with alignment by rotating in parallel with the outer ring. The inner ring features two raceways, and the outer ring has one raceway.

Thrust Ball Bearings

Thrust Ball Bearings are specifically designed to handle axial loads. They have two bearing discs with raceways for the balls and are designed to support axial loads in one direction only. Thrust ball bearings are often used in applications where high axial load capacity is required.

Applications of Ball Bearings

Ball bearing’s ability to reduce friction and enable smooth motion makes them essential for a wide range of equipment and machinery. Here are some key areas:

• Automotive: Ball bearings are extensively used in automobiles to support rotating components such as wheels, axles, and driveshafts. They are also found in engines, transmissions, and other automotive systems to reduce friction and improve efficiency.
• Industrial Machinery: From conveyor belts and pumps to motors and gearboxes, industrial machinery depends on ball bearings for smooth operation and reduced friction. They enable smooth and efficient operation of rotating parts, reducing wear and tear and extending equipment lifespan.
• Household Appliances: Found in many household appliances, including washing machines, refrigerators, and vacuum cleaners. They help reduce noise and vibration, improve energy efficiency, and extend the lifespan of appliances.

Find the Perfect Ball Bearing for Your Application Today!

RS NZ is a leading supplier and distributor of high-quality bearings for sale, offering a wide range of ball bearings from leading brands, including SKF, FAG, NSK, NMB, and our own trusted RS PRO. We have everything from sealed to loose ball bearings for any application, ensuring your equipment runs smoothly.

Shop our range of ball bearings today and experience the difference that quality components can make.

Ordering & Delivery Information for NZ

Enjoy a hassle-free online shopping experience when purchasing ball bearings or other items, such as water leakage detectors and proximity limit switches with RS NZ. Browse our selection of ball bearings, add your desired items to your basket, and proceed to checkout with ease.

We offer secure payment options and reliable delivery within NZ. For more details on delivery services and fees, please refer to our Delivery page.