Spherical roller bearings are designed to operate in applications where there is significant misalignment, whether due to mounting or shaft deflection, with relatively strong radial loads in any direction and certain axial loads.

They are also highly resistant to shock loads and, despite shaft deflection, their self-aligning function allows maximum capacity loading. The Self-Aligning Double Row Ball Bearings are somewhat similar in design, except that the Spherical Roller Bearings are designed to be more stable by handling heavy loads, but at lower maximum speeds. Between the internal ring, which has two raceways, and the outer ring that has one spherical raceway, these bearings are barrel-shaped rollers. They are self-aligning since the bearing axis coincides with the center of curvature of the surface of the outer ring raceway.

There’s also a different type of spherical roller bearing that has hardened steel cages deliver greater fatigue strength, increased wear-resistance and tougher protection against shock and acceleration. Spherical Roller Bearings with brass cages provide extra strength and durability in the most unrelenting conditions, including extreme shock and vibration, high acceleration forces and minimal lubrication.

Spherical roller bearings, whose high load carrying capacity and ability to accommodate misalignment help you obtain low maintenance costs and long bearing service life.

SNK invented this bearing type in 1919 and our range is the widest in the industry today – both open and sealed.