There’s no denying that thin section bearings are designed to solve issues where standard deep groove ball bearings and unsuitable. Actually, typical applications are those where there are space limitations concerns with weight, and the loading and torque requirements still require the use of a ball bearing.
Keep in mind there are a wide array of definitions used in the industry and among the more common is when the bore diameter is more than 4 times greater than the radial cross section, the bearing is regarded as a thin section. However, cross-sectional size tends to vary, but it is typically two times the ball diameter.
Thin section bearings are available in a variety of configurations including, radial, angular contact, 4-point contacts, full complement, duplex pairs, and different cross sections. The selection of any given configuration is generally driven by the type and magnitude of loading needed in the application.
That leaves many wonder what it takes to choose the best thin section bearing for an application. While a typical bearing selection process can be leveraged with thin section bearings, normally the space requirements will drive a designer to examine options within the family of thin section bearings.
It doesn’t end at that since you should also factor in the loading and operational conditions since they will dictate the type of thin section bearing that’s most suitable for your needs. Once you factor in the maximum static and dynamic loads, the desired bearing life, and catalog data, you will definitely have an easy ride in your choice of the best thin section bearing.
Of course, other applications inputs must be looked into also. These include operating environment, rotational performance, mounting conditions, and temperature in order to determine the thin section bearing specifications. Not to mention clearance, precision level, and type of closure form a large part of specifying the correct thin section bearing.
It is highly recommended that you understand thin section bearing types before deciding on anything. Equipped with this information, you will certainly have an easy time when shopping around for thin section bearings.