Stainless steel roller bearings are more resistant to rust and corrosion than other metals. They are also durable and robust, with crowned diameters. Because they are made of stainless steel, these bearings are very reliable for moderate radial and thrust loads with low operating torque.
Stainless steel roller bearings offer several benefits, including durability and rust resistance, making them an excellent choice for moderate-duty applications.
Corrosion Resistance than Chrome Steel
Compared to their chrome-steel counterparts, stainless steel roller bearings have higher chromium content and are more resistant to rust and corrosion. Stainless steel contains more chromium than chrome steel, which combines with nickel to form a passive film. This protects the bearing from the environment and is popular among manufacturers because of its durability. However, this material is more accessible than chrome steel. As a result, its load-carrying capacity is around 20% lower than that of chrome steel 52100 bearings.
The outer ring 12 and inner ring 14 are composed of steel. Because of the exposed surface areas, the steel would rust fast. As a result, the zinc-nickel plated layer protects the steel by forming a perfect physical barrier. However, this process is difficult to achieve and has the potential to result in holes that create foci for corrosive activity.
Durable and Robust
The stainless steel roller-bearing material is a solid and durable alloy. Engineers design finished components with a hardness that resists cracking and subsurface rolling contact fatigue. Nylon is a common material used in bearings, and its properties make it well-suited for bearings. This material is also used in household appliances and is one of the least expensive ceramic balls.
Stainless steel is naturally suited for applications with heavy loads, and its high corrosion resistance makes it ideal for food-oriented environments. It’s easy to clean so bacteria won’t stick to the surfaces. Additionally, the material is resistant to acidic fluids found in meat. These properties make stainless steel roller bearings an excellent choice for food-processing equipment.
Crowned Diameter
Crowned diameters are used in roller bearings. While most steel rollers and pins have a consistent outside diameter (OD), stainless steel roller bearings have a crowned diameter (OD). Designed with a crowned profile, the rolling element of a bearing has a constant OD in the center section and a drop in diameter at the ends, avoiding higher stresses at the ends. Multiple grinding processes achieve crowned profiles.
Madewell crown rollers are linear guide bearings with a curved outer diameter and integrated mounting studs. They provide smooth, guided motion without re-aligning the linear guide surfaces. They are quiet and designed for a fixed location. In addition, they feature an offset pilot diameter and permanently attached polymer over-molded stainless steel single-row ball bearings with shields. Madewell crown rollers are a great choice if you need precision in your application.
Moderate Thrust and Radial Loads at Low Operating Torque
Stainless steel roller bearings are excellent for moderate thrust and radial loads at lower operating torques. They feature ground transition raceways, which deliver higher thrust load capacity while reducing edge stresses. A modified polyamide/brass cage geometry promotes higher speed ratings and reduced heat generation. Newly upgraded rollers and balls improve running accuracy, while state-of-the-art heat-treating techniques minimize dimensional changes in balls with low oxygen content. These new materials and advanced processes ensure longer bearing life and reduced fatigue failure.
Stainless steel roller bearings are available in single- or double-direction, spherical, or needle-shaped. The type of bearing depends on the load direction. These bearings are suitable for both radial and thrust loads. They have ball-shaped rolling elements that concentrate forces onto a limited number of contact points. Ball bearings are ideal for moderate thrust and radial loads at low operating torques but fail quickly with high loads early on. The small contact point between balls and races reduces friction, enabling high speeds.
Low Coefficient of Friction
The coefficient of friction is a measurement used to describe the resistance created by the sliding motion of two moving parts. It can vary between different materials but is always below zero. The coefficient of friction is calculated using several factors, including the bearing’s material, load, and rotational speed. Table 8-1 shows some reference values of the friction coefficient.
The design of stainless steel roller bearings incorporates a low coefficient of friction. The materials used to manufacture them are stainless steel or 440C. The lower the coefficient of friction, the less likely the bearings will rust and cause damage to the machine. Therefore, they are not suitable for swimming pools or food processing. These bearings could be better for medical applications. However, they are available in wide varieties.
Summary
In summary, stainless steel roller bearings offer a range of advantages that make them a top choice for many applications. Thanks to high chromium content, their impressive corrosion resistance ensures they can withstand harsh environments better than chrome steel alternatives. Stainless steel’s durability and robustness also contribute to the long-lasting performance of these bearings. The crowned diameter design helps to distribute stress evenly, while the material’s properties allow for smooth operation under moderate thrust and radial loads, even at low operating torques.
Additionally, the low coefficient of friction exhibited by stainless steel roller bearings further enhances their efficiency and reliability. While they may not be ideal for every situation, such as swimming pools or specific medical applications, stainless steel roller bearings provide a dependable and cost-effective solution for various industrial and commercial uses. As engineers and manufacturers continue to recognize the benefits of this material, stainless steel roller bearings will likely remain a popular choice for years to come.
