Posts in:Facts

Fun Facts About Bearings

Posted June 24, 2015 by admin

roller bearings Keeping your bearings in tip top shape can be some serious business for some seriously fun activities. Today, ball bearings are used for skateboards, airplanes, computers, trains, video games, washing machines, longboards and so much more. Today’s generation isn’t the first one to think up using roller bearings in new and inventive ways. We’ve compiled a list of bearing fun facts to help you get more acquainted with these useful little mechanisms.

•  The Hubble telescope, weather satellites, and even the Mars Space Rover all use bearings.

•  If you were to expand a 1-inch ball to equal the size of planet Earth, the ball would be rounder than the actual Earth.

•  If you were to file down onto a ball bearing, you would wear out the file before you’d wear out the bearing!

•  In Egypt around 2600 BC, ancient ball bearings were used to help transport bricks that were used in building the pyramids.

•  70% of bearing failures are from improper lubrication. Remember to use the correct amount when it comes to lubing up those bearings.

•  If you dropped a ball bearing into acetone, the bearing would begin to rust as soon as it touched your skin.

•  During the war, ball bearing factories in Germany were often bombed, as they were essential to the war industry in Germany.

•  When using outer race rotation, you’re reducing your bearings lifespan by 20%

At VNC we supply bearings that last, carrying a reputation of high-quality, successful craftsmanship. With over 20 years’ experience you can feel confident calling VNC at 800.862.3211 with any questions you have, or to schedule a quote for all your bearing needs.

The Differences Between Ball Bearing Types

Posted May 30, 2015 by admin

Bearings allow certain devices to spin or roll, reducing friction between the spinning and still surfaces. These devices allow constrained “rolling” motions and are essential to tires and basically any device that moves or rolls. There are four main types of ball bearings: radial, self-aligning, miniature precision, and inserts, with each variation serving a different purpose. If you’ve ever wondered what these different types are all about, prepare to be enlightened.

Radial - As one of the most popular types of ball bearings, the Radial bearing is built with an inner and outer ring, as well as precision balls. The deep-grooved build of radial ball bearings allow for higher rotation speeds and are able to support high radial and thrust loads.

Self-Aligning - Self-aligning bearings contain a double row of balls and can be produced with either tapered or straight bores. This bearing is created with the least amount of friction. Self-aligning bearings are generally used when there is a misalignment from shaft deflection, assembly errors, or mounting. This bearing will correctly realign without creating stress, and allows bearings to operate at higher rotational speeds.

Miniature Precision - This bearing is aptly named, as these small gems are used for precision jobs. This bearing has an internal diameter smaller than 3/8 inches, or 9.525 mm and are able to operate at extremely high speeds. Miniature ball bearings are useful in devices where space is limited.

Insert - For specific applications you’ll want to look into insert ball bearings. These feature an inner ring to provide shaft support. Insert bearings, sometimes referred to as “Y-bearings”, are fixed into a locked position and work wonderfully for easy replacements. This bearing is built as a unit, or as a single piece and are designed for easy and quick mounting.