LLG Ceramic Bearing

Have you been looking for low density, low friction, high strength, electricity & magnet resistance, and lubricant-free? LLG Ceramic Bearing will be what you want to have.

Our LLG Ceramic Bearing is built of AISI440C, 304/316 stainless steel rings, ceramic balls, and made from Zro2, Si3N4, or Sic. Also, our LLG Ceramic Bearing is 1.5 times up high speed compared with just stainless-steel bearing. What is good with LLG Ceramic Bearing has high strength, high wear resistance, high temperature, corrosion, acid, and alkali resistance. Also, LLG Ceramic Bearing can use in the long-term in the sea and has good electrical insulation.

With LLG Ceramic Bearing, no need for lubrication for cleaning, and you can wash with water. In addition, LLG Ceramic Bearing has an excellent long time working in low temperature until -80 centigrade. LLG Ceramic Bearing’s tolerance is as per standard bearings, is easy for assembly.

LLG Ceramic Bearing has a precision rate of P0 P6 P5 P4 P2, Class 2, ABEC-1, 3, 5. LLG Ceramic Bearing also has a vibration of V4, V3, V2, V1 and clearance of C0, C2, C3, C4, C5.

Send you inquires, our services are always open, and we reply immediately. Do not forget to contact us now!

 

Ceramic Bearing- The Ultimate FAQ Guide

Ceramic Bearings Introduction

Ceramic bearings are important mechanical components of machinery used across a wide range of industries. 

The device assists in facilitating desired motion, restricting unwanted movement, and reducing friction. 

This guide covers the most frequently asked questions about ceramic bearings, which will help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next set. 

What are Ceramic Bearings?

A ceramic bearing consists of ceramic rolling elements (with rings and balls) enclosed in either a PEEK or PTFE cage or without any cage at all. 

They are primarily used in applications that involve high speed and high loads. 

Ceramic bearings use a variety of ceramic materials for their rolling elements,‌ ‌including:

• The silicon nitride material ‌ (Si3N4)
• The aluminum‌ ‌oxide‌ ‌ (Al2O3)
• Zirconium dioxide‌ ‌ (ZrO2)
• Silicon carbide (SiC) material

What Are The Benefits Of Ceramic Bearings?

Ceramic bearings are primarily used in environments that are too hostile for steel bearings, such as extremely high temperatures, corrosive chemicals, or liquids. 

Specific benefits of ceramic bearings can be attributed to their four principal‌ ‌characteristics:

• A reduction in‌ ‌rolling‌ ‌resistance
• ‌‌A reduction in‌ ‌weight
• Enhanced‌ ‌durability
• An increase in‌ ‌stiffness

#1. Reduction in Rolling Resistance 

Ceramic balls offer reduced rolling resistance primarily due to their higher smoothness, dimensional stability, and uniformity. 

This property results in uniform distribution of applied load over the rolling element.

A ceramic material also has a much lower coefficient of friction than standard seals and lubricants.

As a result, rolling resistance is reduced, and rotational speeds are increased.

#2. Reduced Weight

A ceramic bearing’s reduced weight contributes to its improved overall performance. 

By reducing weight, the bearing’s outer race is subjected to less centrifugal force as it spins. 

As a result of this reduced force, ceramic bearings can operate as much as 20–40% faster while using substantially reduced energy to sustain their speeds.

#3. Increased Durability

In addition to being harder, ceramic bearings are more durable. 

Ceramic bearings can last up to 20 times longer than steel bearings, according to several studies.

They have a smoother surface, which reduces bearing seizure risk significantly without significant lubrication. 

#4. Increased Stiffness

The durability and corrosion resistance of ceramic bearings allow them to work in harsh environments. 

They also provide electrical insulation, which eliminates the risk of rolling elements‌ ‌being‌ ‌

eroded‌ ‌by‌ ‌electricity‌ ‌and‌ ‌the risk of rolling elements pitting. 

What are Ceramic Bearings

How Do Ceramic Bearings Differ From Standard Bearings?

Over the years, the steel bearing has aided many in a wide variety of applications and is widely used in many other fields as well.

However, ceramic bearings are designed for applications functioning in extreme special conditions where standard bearings are unsuitable. 

But how do the two bearings differ from each other?? 

Here are some facts about ceramic ball bearings in comparison to steel ball ‌bearings.

#1. Decreased Friction

Bearings made from ceramics have better roundness, lighter weight, and smoother surfaces than steel.

As a result, ceramic ball bearings reduce friction (by up to 40 %!), reduce energy losses, and ensure that your equipment runs more efficiently. 

Moreover, their relatively lightweight reduces the load on other components of the bearing, increasing the speed.

In addition, ceramic ball bearings need less lubrication because they are much more smoother than steel ball bearings.

#2. Corrosion Resistance

No matter how well-lubricated steel balls are, they will corrode over time, whereas ceramic balls don’t.

Bearing failures and downtimes are significantly reduced as a consequence. 

In addition to being durable in harsh environments, ceramic balls are also non-fracturable. 

Ceramic ball bearings often have a life expectancy of up to ten times ‌that‌ ‌of‌ ‌steel‌ ‌ball‌ ‌bearings!

#3. Effects on Bearing Races

As ceramic balls have a smooth surface, they are better suited to polishing a bearing’s races over time, whereas steel balls can crack the races. 

Additionally, ceramic balls are so hard that they crush any particles that may find their way into the bearing so they don’t cause harm to the races.

#4. More Accurate

Due to the less expansion of ceramic balls compared to steel balls, ceramic bearings have higher precision and produce less vibration than steel bearings.

#5. Electrically Non-Conductive

In the case of motors controlled by variable frequency drives, you should use a bearing that is electrically non-conductive. 

You can prevent electrical arcing in bearings when you use a silicon nitride ceramic ball bearing.

What Are The Types Of Ceramic Bearings?

As with steel bearings, ceramic bearings are rated for smoothness and rolling resistance in similar ways. 

In general, ceramic bearings fall into two categories:

• Full ceramic bearings
• Hybrid ceramic bearings 

#1. Full Ceramic Bearings

Full Ceramic Bearings

With these bearings, ceramic rings are used along with ceramic balls and a synthetic cage designed from PEEK or PTFE and sometimes no cage‌ ‌at all. 

Hence, they can be utilized in corrosive environments due to their high resistance to acid and alkalis. 

Silicon nitride (Si3N4) bearings can withstand temperatures of up to 800 degrees Celsius without cages. 

With these qualities, combined with their lightweight, they offer a great alternative to traditional metal bearings because they weigh only 45 percent as much as steel.

A full ceramic bearing is non-magnetic, meaning hospitals and medical devices use them for MRI scanners. 

Also, they are utilized in magnetic fields when there is a strong magnetic field present.

Ceramic bearings, however, are more brittle because of their greater hardness, so they have a more challenging time handling shock loads.

#2. Hybrid Ceramic Bearings

Hybrid Ceramic Bearings

Hybrid bearings are a combination of ceramic and steel. 

The ceramic balls in these bearings are paired with metal rings on both the inner side and outer side. 

In contrast to full ceramic rings, the metal rings of the combination offer higher speeds due to their less brittle nature. 

The conical rings are also not likely to undergo sudden catastrophic failure under high loads.

It may appear as though hybrid bearings look similar to full ceramic bearings, but their requirements differ quite a bit. 

A full ceramic bearing, for example, requires no lubrication, whereas a hybrid bearing does.

Despite the ceramic balls abrading steel rings, hybrids are still better at coping with marginal lubrication than steel bearings because their low friction coefficients and lightness make them more robust.

When utilizing hybrid ball bearings at a very low speed, lubrication may not be necessary.

Nevertheless,‌ ‌since‌ ‌these‌ ‌bearings‌ ‌frequently operate at higher speeds than full ceramics, proper‌ ‌lubrication‌ ‌is‌ ‌recommended.

By choosing a hybrid version rather than a full ceramic bearing, corrosion resistance is also compromised. 

In any case, whichever type you settle for, LLG bearing has you covered. We are known for producing high-quality bearings of different types and sizes. 

What are Ceramic Bearings Used for in Industries?

There are many applications for ceramic bearings, ranging from chemical baths to vacuum environments, the food industry, semiconductor manufacturers, x-rays, MRI, and patient positioning. 

Furthermore, they are also widely used in electric motors, vehicles that compete in high-speed races, laboratory equipment, underwater gear, and aerospace applications which can all be gotten at LLG bearing. We produce different types of ceramic bearings for varieties of industries at the best price.

Ceramic bearings are mostly used in space exploration and other aerospace products. They‌ ‌provide excellent weight capacity and vacuum compatibility, which makes them ideal for spacecraft and satellites requiring optimal dynamic and maneuverability for optimal flight performance. 

Due to ceramic bearing’s chemical inertness, it is not affected by harsh chemicals or leaches particles into sensitive solutions. 

When ceramic bearings are cleaned with strong acids or alkalis, corrosion is less likely to occur. Furthermore, the absence of oil- and grease-based lubricant prevents bacteria from growing. 

Specifically, ceramic bearings are applied to extreme environments that demand non-corrosive, high-speed, lower friction, non-conductive or non-magnetic machinery.

What are Ceramic Bearings Used for in Industries

How do you Maintain Ceramic Bearings?

Ceramic bearings are a significant contributor to enhancing the smooth flow of machines.

Nevertheless, as with every part or component of a machine, it is possible to get dirt and other forms of contamination on them. 

As a result, they are unable to operate efficiently, thus causing you to experience unnecessary inconvenience. 

Ceramic bearings should therefore be adequately cleaned, and for this reason, it is imperative to know how to do so.

How do you Maintain Ceramic Bearings

Materials and Tools Needed

Below is a list of materials and tools you will need:

• Citrus-based Detergent
• Degreasing agents (acetone or pure alcohol)
• Cleaning brush
• Piece of cloth
• Lubricating oil
• Rubber gloves
• Aprons
• Goggles

Wearing gloves, goggles, an apron, and other protective clothing will be necessary.

This is because almost all of the chemicals involved in this process are toxic. As a result, burns and other injuries can often occur. For this reason, it is advisable to use protective clothing every time you’re cleaning your ceramic bearings. 

In order to clean your ceramic bearings, you will have to follow these steps.

Step #1: Remove the rubber shield and cage

To begin, you will need to remove the rubber shield and the cage that covers the bearings. 

This will allow access to the inner segments of the ceramic bearings. 

To do so, use a knife or prying tool.

Avoid damaging the delicate parts or inflicting injuries on yourself by treating them gently and cautiously. 

Separate them and store them in an enclosed space. It is very easy for them to be damaged or lost, so they must be treated with care.

Step #2: Wash the Ball Retainers and Bearing

This is the key to the entire process. 

It is necessary to clean the bearings and the ball retainers. 

Soak them in acetone or pure alcohol solution first, followed by a degreasing solution. 

To ensure that all grease is wholly removed, leave it overnight.

Once they are completely soaked, take them out. 

Clean the remaining dirt gently with the cleaning brush. 

Be careful not to spray debris all over the place. 

You may harm those around you; thus, make sure the bearings are cleaned gently by putting them in fresh chemicals and shaking them to remove extra grease. 

The dirty solution should be replaced repeatedly. 

The goal is to leave behind a fresh and clean solution. 

A thoroughly cleaned bearing can only be identified by this sign.

Step #3: Lubricate and Dry the Bearings

Allow the bearings to dry out in the open. 

Let them dry completely before touching them. 

By doing so, you could cause additional dirt and spoil issues. 

You can lubricate the bearings once‌ ‌you‌ ‌are‌ ‌certain they are ‌dry. 

Lubricate all joints, movable components, and nearby surfaces gently with the lubricating oil. 

The retainers should also be treated similarly.

Step #4: Put the Cage and Rubber Shields Back In Place

Putting the pieces back together requires a bit of effort. 

Use paper clips to evenly distribute the balls. 

Once the ball retainers have been assembled, continue. 

It is essential that the ball retainers return to their proper‌ ‌place‌ ‌and‌ ‌that‌ ‌they‌ ‌do‌ ‌so‌ ‌perfectly. 

During this time, if some parts wear out, you should replace them.

Step #5: Test the Setup

Test the assembly now to determine its effectiveness. 

Put some kind of force or impact on the new ceramic bearing. 

Watch how the bearings react to these impacts. 

The weaker parts of the assembly may need to be strengthened if the assembly is weak. 

The whole system may need to be disassembled and reassembled. 

Repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.

How Will Ceramic Bearings Improve Performance?

Efficiencies can vary widely among operators, setups, and operating environments, so it’s impossible to calculate the exact improvements. 

Ceramic bearings, however, are generally lighter, stronger, and faster. 

A ceramic bearing often has a life span of two to three times longer than a standard bearing. 

Ceramics are harder in ball form than steel; they have a Rockwell hardness three to four times that of steel ball.

Based on performance, ceramic bearings can produce 50% more RPM than their standard counterparts (steel bearing). Because ceramic balls do not have pores, they are virtually frictionless, unlike steel balls, which have pores and generate heat and friction. Insufficient lubrication or arcing will also prevent ceramic bearings from micro-welding. Due to these features, the vehicle accelerates faster and is less energy-intensive at‌ ‌peak‌ ‌RPM.

Can Full Ceramic Bearings Break-In Bicycle Applications?

When subjected to high loads, ceramic bearings can break. 

In particular, ceramic races do not hold up as well under load as ceramic balls do. 

The use of full ceramic bearings in environments with impact loads is not recommended. 

In addition, full ceramic bearings in bikes’ bottom brackets are not recommended unless the rider is minor than 150lbs. 

Does Full Ceramic Bearing Need Lubrication?

In spite of what you may think, you can run ceramic bearings completely dry. 

Lubrication is not necessary for them to function. 

Due to its non-porous nature, ceramic is virtually frictionless, unlike steel. 

Likewise, ceramic dissipates heat quickly, which is why the space shuttle uses it on its underside. 

Full ceramic bearings can run completely dry since there is no heat buildup and virtually no friction. 

In addition, they do not rust, can be cleaned with water, and operate in vacuum environments.

Does Full Ceramic Bearing Need Lubrication

At What Temperature Do Ceramic Bearings Work?

Each of the components in a bearing determines the temperature at which it can operate. 

As long as the bearing remains within its operating temperature range, the bearing can operate at 200°C. However, if the retainer can only maintain 150°C, the bearing cannot be used beyond that temperature range.

Are Ceramic Bearings worth the investment?

Are Ceramic Bearings worth It

 

YES, that’s the simple answer. 

Ceramic ball bearings are usually smoother, rounder, and more rigid than steel and are more heat and corrosion-resistant, with higher dimensional stability and lower density. 

There is, however, a cost associated with this. 

The cost of ceramic bearings is significantly higher than that of steel bearings. 

In other words, when should you invest in ceramic bearings?

When it comes to high-value applications, like lab equipment, there are exact requirements to follow every time. 

Choosing the wrong components for such equipment can lead to contaminated study conditions, or the study may end up being discontinued. 

For medical equipment, it is essential to use ceramic bearings due to their non-contaminating and non-magnetic properties.

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technique used primarily in hospital MRI scanners is an example. 

The technology creates images of any living thing in two-dimensional or three-dimensional form using a strong magnetic field.

These scanners cannot use steel bearings as they have magnetic properties.

This high-value application requires ceramic bearings.

It is due to the same reason that advanced ceramic components have become increasingly important to semiconductor fabrication equipment manufacturers.

The superior electrical insulation and corrosion resistance of silicon nitride over alumina (aluminum oxide) are the main benefits of such a bearing.

Despite its similar qualities to alumina’s, silicon nitride is stronger because of the material’s microstructure.

At LLG bearing, we believe ceramic bearings are capable of handling the many rigors of semiconductor production, including temperatures up to 1400 degrees Celsius and clean-room environments. 

Suddenly, it becomes clear that the increase in costs is justified.

Why Do Ceramic Bearings Have Less Friction?

Ceramic bearings, owing to their glass-like nature, are ideal for applications requiring low friction because of their low coefficient of ‌friction. 

The longer bearing life can be attributed to the fact that ceramic‌ ‌balls‌ ‌are more rigid and require less lubrication. 

Due to their better thermal properties, ceramic balls generate less heat at high speeds than steel balls.

Why Do Ceramic Bearings Have Less Friction?

Can Ceramic Bearings Rust?

You will not have to worry about dealing with rust if you choose a full ceramic bearing. 

In highly corrosive environments, ceramic bearings are built to be corrosion resistant and can be utilized for an extended period of time. 

The entire ceramic bearing will not rust like steel bearings or even stainless steel bearings. 

However, if ZrO2 bearings are in direct contact with hot water or steam for a prolonged period of time, they may degrade and weaken. 

A hybrid bearing, which has steel races but ceramic balls, will not rust, but the steel races must be maintained against corrosion.

 

Can Ceramic Bearings Shatter?

The answer is yes. 

There is a 25 to 35 percent load reduction in full ceramic bearings compared with steel bearings. 

Because the material is harder, it is also more brittle. 

Because of this, ceramic materials are prone to cracking under excessive pressure, whereas steel is prone to indentation.

If full ceramic bearings are to be used, it is essential to determine whether the bearing can withstand the intended load.

It is also imperative to consider the possibility of sudden, heavy impacts that ceramic bearings are incapable of handling. 

The best bearing for impact loads would be one made from steel or stainless steel.

How Long Do Ceramic Bearing Last?

It is not always the material of a bearing that determines how long it will last, but‌ ‌rather whether the bearing is suitable for the purpose. 

As compared with higher-quality bearings, cheaper bearings will not last as long. 

In addition, if the bearing is not suited to the task at hand, it certainly won’t last long. 

An LLG full ceramic bearing will typically last significantly longer than a steel bearing in aggressive environments. Still, the length of time will likewise be subject to the chemicals in close contact with the ball bearing, the temperature, the presence of contamination, and the speed and load. You can get the best in industry ceramic bearing at LLG bearing that will last longer than you expected. 

How Long Do Ceramic Bearings Last?

Can Ceramic Bearing Run Dry?

A ceramic bearing does not require lubrication. 

A non-porous material such as ceramic has little friction and is, therefore, a good choice for automotive applications. 

Ceramic ball bearings can be utilized in dry environments.

Ceramic bearings suffer from no heat buildup within the bearing as opposed to stainless steel. Therefore no lubrication is needed to help dissipate the heat, although lubricants can be used at higher speeds.

Besides very low speeds, only ceramic bearings are recommended for running dry. 

When it comes to bearings made from other kinds of materials, lubrication is crucial.