Two rows of balls on a spherical outer raceway, for shafts that bend or housings that do not line up.
Self-aligning ball bearings have two rows of balls running on one spherical raceway in the outer ring. Because of that, the inner ring and shaft can tilt a little relative to the housing without harming the bearing, which helps where a shaft bends under load or two housings are not perfectly in line. They carry light to medium radial loads and some axial load in either direction. For heavy loads, a spherical roller bearing is the stronger choice.
Self-aligning ball bearings in the 12, 13, 22 and 23 series, with cylindrical or tapered bores. SKF and FAG.
All the self-aligning ball bearings sizes we supply (83)
Sizes and load ratings are from SKF’s catalogue: d is the bore, D the outside diameter and B the width, all in mm; C is the dynamic load rating in kN. We supply SKF and FAG; ask for other brands. Prices change, so tap “Price” to ask us on WhatsApp.
Self-aligning ball bearings are numbered in the 12, 13, 22 and 23 series. The last two digits give the bore code: multiply by 5 for the bore in mm, so a 1205 has a 25 mm bore. The 22 and 23 series are wider than the 12 and 13 for the same bore.
Letters after the number
K means a tapered bore (1:12), for mounting on an adapter sleeve. TN9 is a glass-fibre reinforced polyamide cage, and the E before it marks an optimised internal design, as in 1205 ETN9. Makers use their own letters for some designs, so quote the whole number.
When to choose a spherical roller bearing
A self-aligning ball bearing suits light to medium loads. If the load is heavy or there are shocks, a spherical roller bearing allows the same tilt with much higher load capacity.
Buying tips for self-aligning ball bearings
Match the full designation: the series digits, the bore and the letters after the number, such as K for a tapered bore.
A tapered bore (K) is normally mounted on an adapter sleeve, which makes fitting on long plain shafts easier.
The permitted tilt is small. If the misalignment is large, or the load heavy, ask us about a spherical roller bearing.
Brands
Self-Aligning Ball Bearings from every major maker
Genuine stock from SKF, FAG, NTN, NSK, KOYO, INA and HCH, and other manufacturers on request.
What is the difference between a self-aligning ball bearing and a spherical roller bearing?
Both let the shaft tilt a little. A self-aligning ball bearing uses two rows of balls and carries lighter loads. A spherical roller bearing uses two rows of rollers and carries much heavier loads.
What does K mean in a self-aligning ball bearing number?
K means the bore is tapered (1:12) instead of cylindrical. The bearing is normally mounted on an adapter sleeve.
An angular contact bearing carries radial and axial load together because the balls touch the rings at an angle. Here is how they work and how to order one.