How many types of materials are used for bearings?
In mechanical equipment, bearings serve as key rotating support components, and their performance directly affects the operating efficiency and service life of the entire machine. One of the most important factors determining bearing performance is the bearing material. So, how many types of bearing materials are there? And which materials are suitable for which working conditions? This article provides a detailed analysis of common bearing material types and their application characteristics to help you make scientific selections and improve equipment reliability.
I. Why Are Bearing Materials So Important?
Bearing materials determine not only the load capacity, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and service life of bearings but also their suitability in high-temperature, low-temperature, high-speed, or corrosive environments. Therefore, understanding which materials are used to manufacture bearings is a key reference for engineers and buyers during selection.
II. Detailed Explanation of Common Bearing Material Types
| Material | Advantages | Applications/Types |
|---|---|---|
| High-carbon chromium bearing steel (e.g., GCr15) | Low cost, good heat treatment properties, excellent overall mechanical performance | Suitable for most general industrial bearings, such as motors, automotive wheel hubs, household appliances, etc.; representative grades: GCr15 (China), SUJ2 (Japan), 52100 (USA) |
| Stainless steel (e.g., 440C, 9Cr18) | Corrosion-resistant, rust-resistant, suitable for food, medical, chemical industries | Martensitic stainless steel (e.g., 440C), austenitic stainless steel (e.g., 304, commonly used for cages) |
| Ceramic materials (e.g., silicon nitride Si₃N₄, zirconia ZrO₂) | Low density (reducing centrifugal force), insulating, high-temperature resistant, non-magnetic, good self-lubrication | Aerospace, precision machine tools, medical equipment, high-speed electric spindles, etc. |
| Plastics/Engineering plastics (e.g., PEEK, PTFE, nylon) | Lightweight, maintenance-free/ self-lubricating, chemically resistant, quiet operation | Office equipment, household appliances, food packaging machinery, etc. |
| Bronze/Copper alloys (commonly used in sliding bearings) | Good embedability, anti-seizure performance, excellent thermal conductivity | Large motors, marine propellers, hydraulic machinery, and other heavy-load low-speed scenarios |
III. How to Select the Right Bearing Material Based on Working Conditions?
| Working Conditions | Recommended Bearing Materials |
|---|---|
| General industrial environment | High-carbon chromium bearing steel (GCr15) |
| Humid/Corrosive environment | Stainless steel (440C, 9Cr18) |
| High-speed/High-temperature/Non-magnetic | Ceramics (silicon nitride) |
| Low noise/Light load/Insulation | Engineering plastics (PEEK, PTFE) |
| Heavy load and low-speed sliding | Bronze/Copper alloys |
IV. Conclusion: Scientific Material Selection Enhances Equipment Performance
In summary, bearing materials come in a variety of types, ranging from traditional steels to advanced ceramics and engineering plastics. Each material has unique advantages and suitable applications. When selecting bearings, companies should choose materials based on actual working conditions (such as load, speed, temperature, and medium) to maximize equipment performance and service life.
-
03 2025.12Bearing Selection Guide for Hydrofluoric Acid Service Conditions
In industries such as chemical processing, rare earth metallurgy, and petroleum refining, hydrofluoric acid—a highly corrosive medium—imposes stringent demands on the stability of equipment components
-
03 2025.12How to Determine the Amount of Bearing Grease to Apply?
In mechanical equipment maintenance, the amount of grease applied to bearings is a critical factor affecting bearing lifespan, operational efficiency, and equipment stability.
-
03 2025.12What Are Full-Complement Ball Bearings?
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the structural features, advantages, selection criteria.
-
03 2025.12The Four Lubrication Methods for Bearings
This article provides an in-depth industry overview of four common bearing lubrication methods .