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Rotary bearings are machine elements that support rotating shafts accurately while providing low friction conditions. In order to maintain a stable bearing performance over a prolonged duration, appropriate bearing fit design considerations are required to avoid any negative effects [Chart 1] that may arise from bearings‘ rotary operation.
Issue | Side Effect | Proposed Solution |
---|---|---|
Significant temperature increase due to high speed rotation | Shaft diameter may expand causing moment loads, resulting in bearing seizure, and uneven wear. | Choose fitting dimensions with the anticipation of shaft expansion. |
Thrust and radial direction clearance variations occurring from applied loads. | Degradation of rotational accuracy. Abnormal noises. | Choose fitting dimensions with anticipation of reformed clearances under load. |
[Chart 1] Common Issues & Solutions |
Design Example of Rotary Bearing Applications
The example seen in [Fig. 1] is based on “Inner race rotation/outer race retained”.

Selection of Bearing Fits Based on Shaft Diameter
Transition fit or interference fit is selected to ensure the shaft and the inner ring will always rotate together.
Shaft/Bearing Fits | Applicable For | Fit Standards |
---|---|---|
Transition Fit | For light or varying loads | h5 js6 k6 |
Interference Fit | For general applications | js5 k5 m5 m6 |
[Chart 2] Selection Example of Fits (Radial Bearings) |

Selection of Fits for Bearing Holder Bores
Clearance fit should be chosen for ease of assembly while preventing any deformation of bearings‘ outer/inner races. In general, a Clearance fit (H7) is used. In case of light loading applications (H8) can be used, or (G7) when large temperature variations are to be expected.
Bore Fit Selection | Applicable For | Fitting Standards |
---|---|---|
Clearance Fit | General rotation applications | H7 |
Clearance Fit | Light loads | H8 (wider tolerance than H7) |
Clearance Fit | Significant temperature increase | G7 (large clearance) |
[Chart 3] Fit Selection Examples For Bores (Radial Bearings) |
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