You’ve already heard about why you might choose steel bearings, so now let’s talk about the ceramic option.
CERAMIC BEARINGS
Bearings made with ceramic materials are usually classified as a hybrid because they commonly have a steel ring (outer race, inner race, and cage) with ceramic balls.
ADVANTAGES OF CERAMIC BEARINGS
Ceramic bearings are:
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Able to operate faster than conventional bearings
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More corrosion resistant
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Rigid
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Lighter weight (than most steel bearings)
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Able to operate in high temperatures (Up to 1,800° F)
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Nonconductive (can be used in electrical applications)
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Effective in environments where lubrication may not be available (such as space applications)
DISADVANTAGES OF CERAMIC BEARINGS
- Cost
Ceramic bearings are expensive, so many will seek out an alternative that we will discuss in our next post: plastic ball bearings.
Contact us if you have questions about what bearing material is right for your application.
References
A Guide To Ball Bearing Materials
Bearing Materials- Ceramics, Chrome Steels, Stainless Steels, and Plastics
Photo Credit: “Ceramic Balls” by Jeff Kubina is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0