The SSB Blog

3 Reasons Why Thin Section Bearings are Right for UV Disinfection Robots

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Every day, robotic technology is pushed another step further. The robotics industry has been a staple in manufacturing since robotic arms were introduced to automotive lines back in the ‘60s – and the innovation hasn’t stopped.

These days, robotics manufacturers have identified a new avenue to help people across the country: UV disinfection robots. MIT has already partnered with Ava Robotics to design a robot that uses UV light to disinfect warehouses and other spaces. With the COVID-19 pandemic, this technology has massive potential. Of course, these UV disinfection robots need the right bearings to turn a great idea into a realized opportunity.

3 Key Factors for UV Disinfection Robot Bearings

Without the proper bearings, a robot would be a motionless pile of materials. UV disinfection robots use bearings to spin, turn, and enable any other function required to move about a space and complete a cleaning cycle.

As with other robotics applications, certain bearing solutions are better fits than others for UV disinfection robots. Let’s break down some key reasons why thin section bearings are a go-to bearing solution for robotics.

Weight and size

It’s no secret that thin section bearings offer big benefits in small packages. The size difference between thin section bearings and other bearing styles offers some key advantages to any robotics applications with space constraints or weight restrictions.

To start, smaller parts require less room. A thin section bearing can help you accommodate tight spaces without having to sacrifice on performance. Additionally, thin section bearings don’t need to change cross sections as bore sizes increase. This helps you save additional space within your applications.

Another key benefit is that thin section bearings are notably lighter than other part solutions. This reduction in weight can not only help you make robots lighter, it can also help reduce the amount of friction created during use and improve the long-term efficiency and reliability of your applications.

Ample load-carrying capabilities

Despite their size, thin section bearings are more than capable of carrying the load for your UV disinfection robots. Thin section bearings come in multiple styles to help you accommodate different types of loads.

Type A
Type C
Type X

In addition, thin section bearings can be duplexed to accommodate any situations that have more load requirements than normal. Given the diminutive nature of the parts, this allows you exchange extra performance for not much additional space and weight.

Design flexibility

Some level of part customization is common for many robotics applications. Whether your need special clearances, loads, or materials, there are multiple design options available to match your performance and environment needs. If a standard part doesn’t meet your specific needs, you can invest in custom thin section bearings that modify one or more of the following features:

Multiple cage options
Multiple shield and seal options
Materials selections
Custom sizing
Duplexing

Invest in the Best Bearings for Your Robotics Applications

There are many bearing solutions available, but it takes the right one to best serve your performance and budgetary needs. At SSB, our experts can work with you to identify the best, most cost-effective bearings for UV disinfection robots and any other robotic applications. Use our online product builder to select the parts you need or contact us today to talk to our experts about a custom thin section bearing solution for your application.

Addressing Moment Loads with Thin Section Bearings

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 08:00:00 -0400

When selecting bearings for an application, it’s always important to consider the different types of loads your parts will encounter during use. There are three main types of loads to contemplate:

Radial
Axial (also known as thrust)
Moment

While radial and axial loads are perpendicular and parallel forces to the center axis of an object respectively, moment load is applied along the rotational axis. As such, moment loads are forces that can rotate the rings of your bearing if you don’t address them.

How Do Moment Loads Occur?

There are a few common scenarios that can lead to moment loads. If a design only has a single bearing, radial loads outside the center of the bearing ball will create a moment load. For example, a shaft with a bearing at the base can experience moment loads simply from the weight of the extending shaft. Certain systems may also add intermittent loads if additional weight is occasionally placed against the opposite end of the shaft.

While some systems can address moment loads with multiple bearings, others do not have that option due to either the design itself or space limitations. In these occasions, you’ll need to invest in bearings that can accommodate constant and intermittent moment loads to assure proper performance.

Which Thin Section Bearings are Best for Moment Loads?

Space limitations can make the process of addressing moment loads difficult, which is why thin section bearings can be a great solution. There are three different types of thin section bearings to consider:

Type A – Angular contact thin section bearings
Type C – Radial ball thin section bearings
Type X – Four-point contact thin section bearings

If you’re planning to use a single bearing to account for moment loads, four-point contact thin section bearings offer the best load bearing capabilities. These bearings are made with a gothic archway that creates four points of contact between the balls in the bearing and the raceway. This design provides ample moment loading in a single, small package, making it a go-to option in many situations.

If you only need to accommodate light or moderate moment loads, radial ball thin section bearings are also a suitable choice – especially if you’re dealing with ample radial loads as well.

In general, Type A is not a great option for moment loads if you plan to use a single bearing. However, duplex Type A pairs are very capable of handling extreme moment loads if you’re less concerned about bearing size.

Invest in the Right Thin Section Bearings for Your Loading Needs

Every application offers specific challenges. Whether you’re dealing with moment loads, space constraints, or some other issue, SSB can help you identify a bearing solution tailored to your needs. Use our online product builder to select the parts you need or contact us today to talk to our experts about a custom thin section bearing solution for your application.

Advantages of Thin Section Turntable Bearings

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 08:31:27 -0400

Every type of bearing can play a key role in specific situations. For some applications, thin section turntable bearings are the perfect parts for your system. As with each style, thin section turntable bearings offer some distinct benefits that can address key design issues. Let’s break down some reasons why it can make sense to turn to turntable bearings.

Turntable Mounting Capabilities

One of the most notable visual aspects of turntable bearings are the holes that run through both the inner and outer rings. Of course, those holes are there for more than just aesthetic purposes – they allow for easy mounting directly to a seating surface instead of a shaft or in a housing. This design gives turntable bearings a lazy Susan-like effect that can open your systems up to new possibilities.

Space Constraints

Turntable bearings are sometimes referred to as slewing ring bearings, but the thin section equivalent of these parts is significantly smaller than their slewing ring counterparts. While more compact in size and lighter in weight, thin section turntable bearings don’t lack in performance. That’s a major advantage for any applications that need to save on space or reduce weight, such as:

X-ray equipment
Antenna mounts
Bottling equipment
Food processing equipment
Instrument mounts
Medical equipment
Military equipment
Oil well equipment

Load Acceptance

While small in size, thin section turntable bearings offer ample load-carrying capacity in certain situations. A great example of this would be a Thin Section Turntable X-Type 4-Point Contact Bearing used at the base of a robotic arm. If the arm needs to pick up items, that would create a moment load for a bearing at the base of the shaft. The gothic archway of a turntable thin section bearing makes it capable of handling extreme moment loads.

In addition to moment loads, X-Type turntable bearings are excellent at handling reversing loads and good at dealing with axial/thrust loads. Turntable bearings do struggle with radial and combined loads, so you may need to find an additional solution to address those concerns if they are present in your system.

Are Thin Section Turntable Bearings Right for Your Systems?

If the benefits listed above apply to your applications, it may be time to invest in thin section turntable bearings. However, it’s not always easy to figure out which specific parts are perfect for your needs. Our experts can work with you to discuss your designs and identify a bearing solution that address your performance needs, whether that calls for a standard part or a customized bearing optimized for your systems.

Ready to invest in the right thin section bearings for your applications? Use our online product builder to select the parts you need or contact us today to talk to our experts about your bearing needs.

Thin Section Bearing Selection: Choosing Between A-Type, C-Type, and X-Type Bearings

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 14:35:31 -0500

Thin section bearings are used in a wide variety of applications, and each of those applications have specific requirements. These potential differences make some thin section bearing products a better option than others. When it comes to thin section bearings, there are three different types to consider:

Type A
Type C
Type X

Which style is right for your needs? That depends on your application and the types of loads that your thin section bearings will need to manage.

Type A – Angular Contact Thin Section Bearings

Angular contact-type thin section bearings are designed to thrive in demanding applications with high axial loads. While single A-type thin section bearings typically wouldn’t be recommended to support moment or reverse axial loads, duplex pairs can more than easily accommodate such loads.

Load Capabilities

Radial – Good
Axial – Excellent
Moment – Poor for single bearings, excellent for paired bearings
Reversing axial – Poor for single bearings, excellent for paired bearings
Combined radial thrust – Good

Type C – Radial Ball Thin Section Bearings

As you may expect, radial ball-type thin section bearings are a go-to solution for applications with high, demanding radial loads. These parts can also do a good job with slight to modest loads for other load types, although you’ll want to look elsewhere for any designs that call for extreme moment or reversing axial loads.

Load Capabilities

Radial – Excellent
Axial – Good
Moment – Good (for light to moderate loads)
Reversing axial – Good (for light to moderate loads)
Combined radial thrust – Good

Type X – Four-Point Contact Thin Section Bearings

Unlike Type A and Type C thin section bearings, the Type X four-point contact thin section bearings are made with a gothic archway that creates four points of contact between the balls in the bearing and the raceway. This design makes this type of bearing an excellent choice for applications that need ample moment or reversing axial loading in a small package. However, it does leave Type X parts less capable of handling various radial loads.

Load Capabilities

Radial – Poor
Axial – Good
Moment – Excellent
Reversing axial – Excellent
Combined radial thrust – Poor

Find the Right Bearing Type for Your Applications

The right part can make all the difference in the world. Not only can the right type handle the proper loads and run efficiently, it’ll also save you from replacing parts earlier than expected. Like using the right thin section bearing lubrication, proper part selection can decrease your odds of bearing failure and costly downtime.

In addition, your options extend beyond managing various loads. Type A, C, and X thin section bearings can also be modified in multiple ways, such as fitting parts with different materials for rings and rolling elements or changing the bore size. Your applications need a solution that’s right for them, so it benefits you to find the right thin section bearings for their specific needs.

Know what you need for your applications? Use our online thin section bearing builder to submit a quote for a part based on your specifications. If you’d rather talk to an expert about your options, contact us today to have one of our team members work with you on a part solution for your performance and budgetary needs.

Material Selection: Different Options for Thin Section Bearings

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 14:24:43 -0500

Deciding on the right thin section bearing materials are like choosing what you wear – you need to dress your parts up for the right occasion. For example, it doesn’t make sense to invest in a standard bearing material if it’ll lead to early bearing failure or other issues. Likewise, it doesn’t make sense to pay for a premium material if a standard solution can handle your performance needs.

Proper material selection is very important for your thin section bearings. Let’s break down the various material options for these parts and why they may make sense for your needs.

Chrome Steel

Also known as carbon steel, this material is one of the most common options you’ll find for bearings. The 52100 bearing steel is a high carbon, low alloy steel that contains chromium. Thanks to its makeup properties, this material provides excellent strength and fatigue properties for operating temperatures less than 400 degrees Fahrenheit. These features make chrome steel a great choice for most general applications in need of thin section bearings.

Available chrome steel bearing options

R – no seals or shields
RJ – two seals
RN – thin dense chrome plating
RL – thin dense chrome plating with two seals
RH – one seal

Tool Steel

M50 tool steel is a molybdenum type material that works as an intermediate high-speed solution. The increase molybdenum gives this material option increased wear resistance, as well as strength for temperatures up to 800 degrees. In addition, M-50 tool steel boasts good oxidation resistance and high compressive characteristics. These characteristics makes M-50 tool a good option for bearings used in higher temperature environments that demand increased resistances, such as those for aircraft.

Available tool steel bearing options

RM – no seals or shields

Stainless Steel

If you have an application that operates at very high temperatures or demands clean room conditions, 440C stainless steel may be the right material for your needs. Stainless steel provides much better corrosion and chemical resistance than standards steels, making it an attractive choice for any application where potential product contamination is a major issue, such as food processing or semiconductor equipment manufacturing. Stainless steel also offers high stability in high temperature, although it’s also softer than lower-temperature options. However, this can be overcome by choosing a stainless steel part that meets your performance needs.

Available stainless steel bearing options

RS – no shields or seals
RW – two seals

Ceramic

While ceramic isn’t an option for the inner and outer races, you can opt for a hybrid thin section bearing made with steel raceways and cages and ceramic balls. Ceramic offers a few advantages other standard steel balls, starting with ceramic being a lighter material than steel. In addition, ceramic offer higher corrosion resistance and high-temperature capabilities up to 1,800 degrees.

Unlike steel, ceramic is also nonconductive, which makes it an appealing option for certain electrical applications. However, ceramic balls are more expensive than standard metal ones. Of course, this additional cost may be well worth the price depending on your exact performance and environmental requirements.

Available bearing options with ceramic balls

RX – chrome steel
RY – stainless steel with no seals or shields

Find the Right Bearing Material for Your Applications

There are several different factors that can impact the success of your thin section bearings, so it’s crucial to invest in the right parts for your specific needs. At SSB, we have the components and expertise available to tailor our inventory to your requirements. If you already know what you want, you can build your own custom thin section bearing through our SSB product builder. If not, contact us today to have one of our experts identify a solution for your performance needs and budget.

Thin Section Bearing Lubrication Options for Hard-to-Reach Applications

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 08:34:05 -0500

Proper relubrication of your thin section bearings can help you extend the life and performance of your parts. However, there are some scenarios where regular maintenance and bearing lubrication are either difficult to perform – or even outright impossible.

In those cases, you’ll need to find an alternative to ensure that your bearings perform without ongoing support. Fortunately, there are some options available for situations where relubrication just isn’t going to happen.

Solid Lubricant

A solid lubricant is a good option for any thin section bearing that won’t receive any maintenance during its lifespan. Solid lubes utilize a porous, sponge-like polymer that’s added to the bearing to provide a lifetime supply of oil over time. As the parts run, the lubricant will release the proper amount of oil so that the bearing can operate without issue.

In addition to providing a lubrication option for impossible or hard-to-reach parts, another advantage of solid lubricants is that they’re a relatively clean solution. Solid lubes can be made with food-grade or other specialty oils and won’t leak like some standard greases, which makes it a good fit for applications that can’t afford lubricant spills or other issues.

Oil Baths

Depending on your application, you may be able to utilize an oil bath to keep bearings regularly lubricated in out-of-reach areas. An oil bath uses a reservoir that’s either fully or partially filled with oil to allow running parts to effectively lubricate themselves over time.

Essentially, the bearing or some other rotating part is partially submerged in the oil. As that part rotates, it draws oil up and lubricates itself while splashing excess oil onto the other parts within an enclosed space, such as a gearbox. This method can help you limit the number of times the oil is refilled or provide the application with the lubrication it needs before the entire unit is retired.

Sealed Bearings

A sealed thin section bearing is another potential option for an application where relubrication is either difficult or impossible. These parts have built-in closures to protect the inside of the bearings from dirt, water, and other potential contaminants. However, this seal would also require you to dismantle the part to add more lubrication. As a result, manufacturers include enough lubrication within the part for it to last for the expected lifetime of the bearing.

While a sealed bearing may not provide the same lifespan as a properly maintained and regularly lubricated open part, it can be a good solution for situations where maintenance isn’t realistic. If your bearing’s life calculation matches up with your expectations, a sealed bearing’s lubrication will last for as long as you need that individual part.

Invest in the Right Bearings and Lubricants for Your Applications

There is no single best thin section bearing out there, but there is a right choice based on your applications needs. SSB can work with you to determine which style of thin section bearing matches your lubrication limitations, whether that means one of our available styles or engineering a custom thin section bearing around your specific design.

Ready to invest in bearings that are right for your performance needs and budget? Contact us today to talk to our experts about your bearings needs today.

Solving Challenges in the Food and Beverage Industry with Food-Grade Bearings

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 08:01:23 -0400

Every industry is different, which means that one bearing product may be better for one market than another. When it comes to the food and beverage industry, there are several issues that can impact the success of your bearings, including:

Extreme temperatures (both high and low)
Excessive moisture and chemicals due to continuous cleaning
Adherence to strict hygiene standards and regulations
The potential of product getting in your parts

Many or all these factors can come into play depending on your application. As a result, it’s crucial to find a food-grade bearing solution that caters to your exact needs. Here are some ways your bearings can address certain issues in the food and beverage industry.

Prepare for Extreme Temperatures

It’s not uncommon for food and beverage applications to encounter both high and low temperatures depending on the nature of the product being made. Each temperature range can cause issues if you use bearing products not designed for hot or cold environments.

High temperatures can cause a couple of bearing issues, starting with lubrication problems. Excessive heat can cause grease to purge its oil, which lessens that lubricant effectiveness and potentially even make the bearing seize up over time. High temperatures can also reduce the hardness of bearing metals if the right material isn’t used, which can lead to early failure.

Like heat, colder temperatures can also impact bearing lubricants. Low ambient temperatures affect lubricant viscosity for both oils and grease and can restrict the flow of lubrication to the bearings. As a result, colder environments can cause excessive friction and damage to the bearing without the proper parts.

To address temperature issues, it’s important to invest in parts designed for your specific environment. Special high- or low-temperature lubricants will resist the affects of temperature change better than standard solutions, while temperature-graded materials will better retain their hardness over time.

Deal with Excess Water and Wash Down Chemicals

Water and cleaning chemicals are no strangers for food-grade bearings. Regular required wash downs present quite a few problems for bearings not designed to encounter frequent contact with moisture or strong cleaning solutions.

One major issue with water and chemicals is that they can cause bearings to corrode over time. Not only does corrosion impact the lifespan of your parts, it can also cause corroded particles to come in contact with your products and contaminate them. Those are both massive issues that can be solved by investing in materials that are resistant to corrosion, like stainless steel.

Another problem with wash downs is that the process can blow the lubricants used in your bearings straight out of the parts themselves. With no lubrication, bearings will not be able to perform the way you had planned and will require you to replace those parts much sooner than you intended. Solid lubricants are like a sponge that releases oil while running and sucks it back up when stopped. This option helps you protect the lubrication while the bearing is not in use.

Embrace Strict Hygiene Standards

In addition to preventing corrosion, bearings must meet food safety concerns in other ways. Over time, there is a chance that a bearing’s lubrication may leak out of the part. While this isn’t an issue in some industries, it’s a major problem when something made for human consumption is involved.

To address this issue, it’s important to use food-grade bearing lubrication that will be fine if it happens to come in contact with food or beverage products. The USDA has set grades for these lubricants depending on where your bearings are used:

H1 – Designed for food processing environments with some possibility of incidental food contact
H2 – Designed for equipment and machine parts in where there’s no chance that lubricants or lubricated surfaces will contact food
H3 – Designed to clean and prevent rust on equipment like hooks or trolleys

Prevent Food from Getting in Your Bearings

Not only is it important to keep the contents of your bearings from getting into your products, it’s also good to keep your product from getting into your bearings. Depending on your applications, there is a chance that dough, meat, or any other substance may become lodged inside of your bearings. As you may expect, bearings aren’t going to work very well when jammed up with food.

Fortunately, a good seal can help you shield your bearings from intrusive food or beverage products. An option like a Buna seal can help you keep foreign debris like food and other contaminants out of your bearings while aiding in keeping lubricants in your parts.

Find the Right Food-Grade Bearings with Slim Section Bearings

Even if you know what challenges you face, it’s not always easy to find the right bearing solutions for food and beverage applications. At Slim Section Bearings, we can help you identify which thin section bearings are best for your situation, whether that involves a standard part or custom food grade bearings. Contact us today to talk to our experts about your bearings needs today.

Why Thin Section Bearings Make Sense for Military Applications

Tue, 21 May 2019 08:53:38 -0400

No matter whether they’re for combat, surveillance, or some other type of task, bearings made for military applications need to perform. Between tough environments and demanding designs, military organizations must find bearings that not only meet exacting part requirements, but also surpass them. Fortunately, quality thin section bearings are up to that task for many different military applications.

What are Thin Section Bearings Used for in Military Applications?

Thin section bearings are a natural fit for a variety of military needs. One area of need that’s grown considerably over the years is custom bearings made for robotics. Military robots perform a wide range of tasks – bomb defusing, scouting, etc. – and these applications require thin section bearings to meet performance and space needs.

In addition to robotics, thin section bearings offer solutions for military applications ranging from miniguns and turrets to cameras mounted on various structures and helicopters. If it requires smooth, efficient, and powerful performance in a small package, thin section bearings are a natural choice for the military.

Specific Pain Points for Military Bearings

As mentioned before, space and weight are typically at a premium for military applications. In addition to these issues, there are a variety of other specific needs that military applications require, each of which can play a big role in finding the right bearing supplier.

Special bearing options

Some level of part customization is typical for bearings used in the military market. Lots of parts require special clearances or loads, while other may need different balls or cages to meet performance and environment needs. As a result, it’s important to find a supplier that offers the following bearing options:

Multiple cage options
Multiple shield and seal options
Materials for corrosion resistance
Custom sizing
Duplexing
Custom marking/private labeling

DFARS compliance

Any business that wants to work with the Department of Defense (DoD) needs to be DFARS compliant. DFARS – also known as the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement – is a specific set of rules that dictate how entities in the U.S. government procure goods and services.

When it comes to material goods like thin section bearings, DFARS dictates that the raw materials used in these products come from domestic or specific, DFARS-approved countries. This can limit part options, as bearings made with materials from non-DFARS countries like China will not comply with DoD rules and prevent them from buying your products. As a result, the thin section bearings you invest in should be DFARS compliant for any business related to the DoD or other government organizations.

Turnaround times

Who doesn’t want their parts as soon as possible? The military market is no different, which means that it’s always good to compare turnaround times for bearings, especially if they’re being custom designed. Fortunately, thin section bearings are typically manufactured more quickly than other bearings styles, with lead times that average six to eight weeks for standard sizes. This allows you to get the parts you need sooner so you can get your products to market or avoid additional downtime depending on your application.

Work with SSB for Your Military-Grade Bearings

It takes a good bearing supplier to find the best solutions for your military applications. SSB provides quality bearing products that are made in the U.S. and are DFARS compliant (CAGE # 704Q7). Whether you need a standard or custom thin section bearing, our experts can work with you to understand your specific needs for your military applications. Contact us today to have SSB help you solve your next bearing project.

The Different Types of Thin Section Bearings

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 10:27:50 -0400

While small in width, thin section bearings can come in a variety of styles. Each type of thin section bearing boasts various advantages and disadvantages, which makes it important to know which style is best suited for your needs. To help, here’s a quick breakdown of the different styles of thin section bearings and the types of jobs they’re meant to handle.

Thin Section Radial Ball Bearings

As the name would suggest, thin section radial ball bearings are used for demanding applications with predominantly radial loads. These bearings come in multiple styles and cross sections, such as open and sealed variants. While they’re best suited for radial loads, they can also accept very minimal axial, reversing, and moment loads.

Thin Section Angular Contact Bearings

While radial thin section bearings are designed to handle radial loads, angular contact thin section bearings are best served for higher thrust and axial loads. However, they can also accept some radial and combined loads. Angular contact thin section bearings are commonly paired depending on the needs of an application, which can result in any of the following duplex pairs:

Back-to-back duplex pair
Face-to-face duplex pair
Tandem duplex pair

Thin Section Four-Point Contact Bearings

Four-point contact thin section bearings feature a special raceway – also known as a “gothic archway” – that creates four points of contact. This design allows these bearings to do an excellent job of handling moment and reversing loads, plus additional thrust loads. However, four-point contact thin section bearings are not recommended for with in applications with radial and combined loads.

Build Your Own Custom Thin Section Bearing

While you may know your application inside and out, it can be difficult to find just the right bearing solution for your needs – and that’s if what you need is even readily available. Instead, design your own custom parts with our online thin section bearing builder.

All you need to do is plug in certain criteria like bearing type, part quantity, and other details that you need for your parts. Once you submit your customized bearing, SSB will submit your request and send you a quote.

If you’re not sure exactly what you need for your applications, SSB can still help you find the right parts. Contact us today to talk to one of our experts about your bearing needs and we can get to work on a solution.

Reasons Why Businesses Choose Thin Section Bearings

Thu, 09 Aug 2018 09:48:17 -0400

The right bearing plays a key role in the efficiency of your applications. For many businesses in the medical, defense, robotics, and semiconductor manufacturing industries, thin section bearings are the right fit for their needs.

So, what do thin section bearings provide that can make them a better option than other types of bearings? Here are some key reasons why thin section bearings are the right choice for your applications.

Space and Weight Limitations

Bearings don’t need to be big to get the job done. The size difference between thin section bearings and other bearing styles is a major benefit for any application with space or weight restrictions.

The compact design of thin section bearings is beneficial in a few ways. First, the small size of a thin section bearing make it so that these parts don’t take up as much room in an application. Second, the reduced weight makes the overall application lighter and can reduce the amount of friction created during use. That’s a major advantage for both initial design of an application and the long-term efficiency of your operation.

Multiple Configurations Available

Another benefit of thin section bearings is that it gives you options. These parts are offered in a variety of sizes and configurations, allowing you to pick and choose between radial, angular, 4-point designs. If size is the bigger concern, SSB manufactures parts up to 20” in diameter. Metric sizes can also be manufactured.

While there are a variety of thin section bearings available, these parts can also be specially designed to fit your specifications. Customization opportunities include:

Multiple cage options
Multiple shield and seal options
Materials for corrosion resistance and clean room conditions
Custom sizing
Duplexing
Custom marking/private labeling

Quick Turnaround Times

Time is not always on your side. Fortunately, SSB’s thin section bearing production process is very efficient, meaning that you won’t have to wait as long for these parts compared to most other types of bearing.

A typical lead time for most standard thin section bearings ranges between six to eight weeks from the order date. This expedited timeline can help you avoid unnecessary—and costly—downtime.

Consider Thin Section Bearings for Your Applications

Thin section bearings offer several advantages not typically found with other styles of bearings. At SSB, we manufacture quality thin section bearings made in the U.S. and offer related services. Contact us today to order thin section bearings from SSB or to talk to one of our experts to determine the right solution for your applications.

Three Considerations for Food Grade Bearings

Mon, 02 Oct 2017 14:41:16 -0400

The right bearing solution can depend on your industry. A market like food processing has several specific requirements that can affect not only the types of bearing you choose, but also several other key details that can impact your decision. Here are three things that play a crucial role in deciding which bearings are right for your food grade applications.

Use Food Grade Materials

Not all materials are best suited for the food industry. It’s important that you consider bearings made with materials that are resistant to corrosion and any potential chemicals that may be used. Materials like stainless steel or bearings with nickel plating can be a big help for food industry applications.

Only Use Seals and Shields that Make Sense for Your Environment

Wash downs are normal in food processing, which means a good seal is important. The right bearing seal or shield can keep unwanted fluid or contaminants out of your bearings. Of course, this also means that these seals and shields also need to be approved for used around food products. If a seals or shield contaminates your products, it's of no use to you. Make sure that every part of your bearings is graded for use in your environments so that your products and your bearings stay safe.

Invest in Food-Grade Lubrication

Like seals and shields, lubricants play an important part in the long-term success of your applications. However, they can also pose a problem if you don't use the right lubrication.

Food grade bearings require special lubrication for a few reasons. First, these lubricants can be subject to high pressure areas, frequent wash downs, and harsh environments. Also, it also needs to be graded for safe use in these environments in case it ever comes into contact with food. It's important to think about where your bearings will be sued to identify certain standards for your food grade lubricant options.

Find the Right bearings for Food Grade Environments

Even after you identify your needs, it can be difficult to choose the right bearing solution for your applications. Slim Section Bearings can help you find the right thin section bearings based on your needs, whether it’s a standard, available part or a custom food grade bearing. Contact us today to talk to our experts about the bearings you need for your applications.

Three Bearing Lubrication Myths

Mon, 02 Oct 2017 14:38:44 -0400

The right bearing lubricant can be the different between a long lifespan for your part and some serious issues for your applications. When using the wrong lubrication can destroy your bearings and create costly downtime, it's important to make sure you have the right information to properly lubricate your thin section bearings and other parts. This means that it's time to dispel some bearing lubrication myths that you shouldn't trust.

Myth No. 1: All Lubricants are the Same

This is not true in the slightest. There are many different types of bearing lubricants. Each one of these options features different benefits that can greatly impact its success in certain applications and environments. These include:

Grease lubricants
Oil lubricants
Solid lubricants
Graphite
Specialized plating

Another reason why you shouldn't consider all lubricants to be the same is that some lubrication types don't mix well with others. Certain lubricants are simply not compatible with others, which can lead them thinning or thickening if you try to replace your bearing lubrication without checking what was used before. This can result in more wear and tear for your bearings. However, there are some types of lubricants that pair well together, such as oil and solid lubricants.

Myth No. 2: Re-Lubrication Happens Once a Year

Every case is different, but there's a good chance that you should re-lubricate your bearings more than once each year. There are a few factors that can impact your re-lubrication schedule, such as the overall use of your bearings the application environment. It's not uncommon for heavy use and harsh elements could mean that you should re-lubricate once a week, while lightly-used parts in ideal conditions may only require annual reapplication. The biggest factor is that you have a regular re-lubrication schedule no matter how long it takes between dates.

Myth No. 3: You Can Store Bearing Lubrication Anywhere

Not exactly. Lubricants can be easily contaminated, so any storage area with dirt, dust, or other similar substances can ruin your product. Contaminated lubrication is bad for business, so you'll want to store bearing lubrication in a dry, cool, and clean space where containers can be rotated and used on a first-in, first-out basis.

Use Proper Lubrication for Your Bearings

A good lubricant can help your applications run smoothly for a long time. Of course, the right bearing lubrication isn't the only piece to the puzzle. It's important to find the right bearings along with proper lubrication.

As a premier thin section bearing supplier, Slim Section Bearings can help you find the right parts for your applications, as well as which lubricants are best suited for your needs. Contact us today to talk to our experts about your bearing needs.

Warning: Using the Wrong Lubrication Could Destroy Your Bearings

Fri, 30 Jun 2017 08:31:14 -0400

A bad choice of lubrication can even make the best parts go bad. How? Incorrect lubrication can lead to serious issues like overheating and excessive wear, both of which can lead to bearing failure. Not only can these problems force you to repair each affected part, it can lead to additional costs related to downtime and repair. Fortunately, there are lubrication best practices for bearings that can help you ensure that your applications aren't negatively impacted.

How to Prevent the Use of the Wrong Bearing Lubricant

The first thing you'll want to do is to make sure you are using the right type and amount of lubricant for your specific bearings. It may seem obvious, but a simple misreading and misuse will lead to a lot of trouble in the future, especially for when you have to relubricate bearings in the future.

Of course, it's not always obvious which lubricant is the correct for for your parts. You'll also need to consider how much lubrication is necessary. Most fill rates sit between 25 and 35 percent of the available space in the bearing, but some parts may differ. Not sure where to start? Here are some common lubricants and their traditional applications.

Types of Bearing Lubrication

General grease (NLGI #2)

The most common lubricant for bearings.Standard bearings come with Polyrex EX grease. Greases are designed for a wide temperature range, which makes them a good option for motor applications.

Synthetic grease

A wide variety of these greases fit application parameters, including low torque requirements or extreme temperatures. These greases are a natural fit for aerospace applications.

Solid lubricants & oils

These options give you a way of carrying oils while releasing the proper amount over time. Solid lubricants are usable in many wash down applications. In addition, a variety of solid lubricants are FDA rated H1 or H2, making them great for food and beverage applications.

Graphite (dry or solid) lubricant

Graphite offers lubrication at higher temperatures than typical liquid and oil-based options. It's also ideal for extreme low torque considerations, such as high speed applications.

Specialized plating

Features the FENCR Process, in which a diffused layer of carbon rich iron nitride is applied to the bearings so that the product will not chip or spall. This is ideal for product that needs to be corrosion resistant, such as those in extreme moisture environments. Specialized plating is not FDA rated.

While there are many lubrication options you can choose from, it may be difficult to select the right one for your applications. If you aren't sure which lubrication is the best choice, the bearing experts at Slim Section Bearings can can help you narrow down your options. Contact SSB today to talk to our experts about your bearing needs.

What are Thin Section Bearings?

Sat, 10 Jun 2017 10:35:20 -0400

When you need a bearing solution that helps your applications to run efficiently, you don't necessarily want the biggest, strongest parts. Thin section bearings are a lightweight, compact solution that may be the perfect fit for the needs of your applications.

Thin Section Bearing Features

Small bearings can be strong, too. Quality thin section bearings are very stiff without adding excess bulk or weight to your designs. These parts also provide a variety of other key benefits, such as:

Multiple available cross sections and sizes
Multi-load capabilities
Various cage options, including nylon segmented, nylon snap over, brass, and phenolic
Competitive market prices due to volume-sensitive and efficient production
Average lead times of 6 to 8 weeks from order date on most standard sizes
Parts produced with 100 percent domestic components

Thin Section Bearing Specifications

While thin section bearings have several beneficial features, there are also many specifications for these parts. To start, there are three general types of thin section bearings that SSB offers:

Radial – C Type
Angular – A Type
4-Point – X-Type

At SSB, we manufacture all the popular cross section sizes (3/16", 1/4", 5/16", 3/8", and 1/2"), although there are many other important thin section bearing specifications. These include:

Production capability up to 20"
Standard product produced to ABEC 1 precision class (ABEC 3 also available)
Standard steel material of 52100 (M-50 and 440C stainless steel also available)
Standard rolling element of 10 ASI 52100 steel balls (440C Stainless Steel and Silicone Nitride (Ceramic) also available)
Buna N rubber, Stainless Steel shields, and glass reinforced PTFE seals available
Engineered specials offered with Thin Dense Chrome plating

Thin Section Bearing Applications

In general, thin section bearings can be hugely beneficial for environments where Space is valuable. Add in a need for these bearings to maintain a high level of quality and performance, and thin section bearings emerge as a top choice. These requirements make thin section bearings a natural match for medical, machine tool, and robotics applications, but there are many other industries that can benefit from these parts. These include:

Satellite
Packaging
Military Turrets
Material Handling
Textile Machinery
Optical Equipment

Solve Your Your Search for Thin Section Bearings with SSB

When you need a bearing that's strong, but not bulky, it may be time to invest in thin section bearings. At Slim Section Bearings, we provide businesses with quality thin section bearing products that help you get the most out of your applications. If the right solution doesn't exist, our engineers can work on a custom bearing solution to make sure your applications are good to go.

Need thin section bearings for your business? Contact us online today to let us know about your bearing needs.

Four FAQs About Thin Section Bearings

Thu, 18 May 2017 08:52:57 -0400

When you need a bearing that works in tight spaces, thin is in. Thin section bearings boast minimal weight and a compact design, which has made them a go-to part for businesses in need of multi-load capabilities and high stiffness in a small package.

As a supplier of thin section bearings products, we get many questions about the types of parts that are available and how they can help with specific applications and environments. Here are a some answers to a few common questions people ask about thin section bearings.

What are Thin Section Bearings?

Thanks to its name, it's not too difficult to identify the main advantage of a thin section bearings. These parts – also known as slim section bearings – are thinner than other bearing styles, which helps create a compact, lightweight product.

What are the Benefits of Thin Section Bearings?

The size and weight of thin section bearings are the most notable draws for most businesses. These features allow thin section bearings to operate efficiently and effectively in applications with weight concerns or tight spaces. Thin section bearings are also quickly manufactured. This is very beneficial for any business that needs products right away to avoid downtime without sacrificing quality and performance.

Are There Different Types of Thin Section Bearings?

These products come in a few different styles that are better suited for specific needs. These include:

Radial thin section bearings - Designed for predominantly radial loads
Angular contact thin section bearings - Handle higher thrust and axial loads
Four-point contact thin section bearings - Features a special raceway that creates four points of contact with ball bearings to help them handle radial and thrust loads

Other variations are also available, and thin section bearings can be customized. For example, thin section bearings can be made in many popular cross-section sizes, different materials (such as standard steel, stainless steel, and chrome), and various protective seals. You can also choose to have them applied with specialized coatings, such as Thin Dense Chrome plating or other options.

What Industries are Best for Thin Section Bearings?

There are a wide variety of applications and markets that stand to benefit from thin section bearings, which includes everything from textile machines to missile launchers. These industries include:

Food Processing
Medical
Machine Tool
Satellite
Packaging
Robotics
Military Turrets
Material Handling
Textile Machinery
Optical Equipment

Order Your Own Thin Section Bearings

When it's time to invest in thin section bearings, we can help. Slim Section Bearings can supply you with the right bearing parts for your applications, whether you know exactly what you need or require a custom solution. Contact us today to talk to an SSB expert about your thin section bearing needs.