What you Need to Know about Ball Bearings?

Ball bearings are sphere-shaped metal ball that works densely with other types of bearings that have similar shape and sizes to allow spinning motion.  There are various sizes of ball bearings from very small to extremely large types.  This type of tool can be used in wide array of application.

Though, it may seem that it may look like a sphere-shaped metal ball, some form of these bearing look vastly different.  The appearance depends on the application and the specific function. Bicycle uses wheel type with size somewhat similar of the pea. Some are rolling in bearing cup, others are sealed like a donut, and some are hidden like those used for bicycle wheel or fishing pole.

This kind of tool rolls around in an enclosure to let the object or the thing inside to move and spin.  A system where these bearing are spinning around is known as the race.  The steel ball bearing is one of the many types of this tool.  The function of this bearing is to spin around, sometimes in an extremely fast rate that causes heat and friction.

One of the main causes why ball bearing fails to function properly is heat and too much friction.  If this tool is exposed to these elements like the combination of hot and cold weather or exposure to rain and dew, these may cause the wear down of its lubrication.  These elements cause the bearing to rust and prevent from spinning freely.

Thus, the secret in combating heat and friction is to use lubricants.  Lubrication also helps to extend the life of the race and bearings.  If this tool is well-greased, it will reduce the heat that causes friction.

It is important to note that there are various types of lubricants used in different applications, so you need to use the correct lubricant or grease.  If you prefer to put the grease in ball bearing, make sure not to put too many lubricants.  Liberal grease coating can surely help the situation but adding excessive amount may cause more problems.

As a rule, the faster you want this tool to perform, the more you need to put lubricants or grease.  Thus, it is very important to note that in coating high speed bearings like those found in the wheels, you must use only high quality grease.  Using multi-purpose grease will ensure high performance and long lasting use.

A good type of grease can repel water easily and it will help the ball bearing not to heat up or break down when exposed to these elements.  Moreover, the quality of the bearing also counts, so make sure that you only use genuine material.  Using sub-standard quality may deter the proper performance of your engine and other machinery which is dangerous for the end-users.

For your ball bearing requirements, contact us at export@macina.ae or you can visit our website at www.macina.ae.


Written By:  Aileen R. Billones