The outer spherical bearing is a special type of bearing, which is a variant of deep groove ball bearings. Its distinctive feature is that the outer diameter surface of the outer ring is spherical, which can be fitted into the corresponding concave spherical surface of the bearing housing to achieve self-alignment. This design enables the outer spherical bearing to be used in scenarios where the coaxiality between the shaft and the housing bore is poor, or where the shaft is long and has large deflection, as it possesses an automatic self-aligning function.
An outer spherical bearing consists of a sealed outer spherical ball bearing (sealed on both sides) and a cast or steel plate stamped bearing housing. The internal structure of the outer spherical ball bearing is the same as that of a deep groove ball bearing, but the inner ring of this type of bearing is wider than the outer ring. The outer ring has a spherical outer surface, which can automatically align when matched with the concave spherical surface of the bearing housing. Usually, there is a clearance between the inner bore of the bearing and the shaft. The inner ring of the bearing is fixed on the shaft using set screws, adapter sleeves, or tapered sleeves, and rotates together with the shaft.
Structural Features
In essence, the outer spherical ball bearing is a variant of the deep groove ball bearing. A key characteristic (as noted in INA bearings) is its spherical outer ring outer diameter, which fits into the corresponding concave spherical surface of the bearing housing to provide self-alignment. Although its basic performance should be similar to that of deep groove ball bearings, most of these bearings are used in relatively rugged machinery with imprecise installation and positioning, poor coaxiality between the shaft and housing bore, long shafts with large deflection, or similar conditions. Additionally, the bearings themselves may have lower precision and some relatively simple structures. Therefore, their actual performance is considerably lower than that of deep groove ball bearings of the same specification.
Outer spherical ball bearings with set screws are used for through shafts with poor rigidity and large deflection. These bearings are sealed on both sides, which can effectively prevent the intrusion of contaminants. They are pre-filled with an appropriate amount of lubricant at the factory, so no cleaning or additional lubrication is required before installation. When the set screws on the protruding end of the bearing inner ring are tightened on the shaft, the allowable axial load shall not exceed 20% of the rated dynamic load.
Outer spherical ball bearings with eccentric sleeves have basically the same performance as those with set screws, except that the set screws are not on the inner ring but on the eccentric sleeve. The inner bore of the tapered bore outer spherical ball bearing is a tapered bore with a 1:12 taper, which can be directly installed on a tapered shaft or on a smooth shaft without a shaft shoulder using an adapter sleeve, and the bearing clearance can be finely adjusted.
- Applications of Outer Spherical Bearings
The internal structure of the outer spherical bearing is the same as that of the deep groove ball bearing, but the inner ring of this type of bearing is wider than the outer ring. The outer ring has a spherical outer surface, which can automatically align when matched with the concave spherical surface of the bearing housing. It features a compact structure, easy assembly and disassembly, and is suitable for simple supports. It is commonly used in mining, metallurgy, textiles, conveying machinery, and other fields.
FAQ：
What Is The Main Application Of This Outer Spherical Vertical Housing Bearing?
It’s widely used in machinery, equipment rotation, and industrial transmission systems.
What Materials Are Used For The Bearing And Housing?
Bearing: High-carbon chromium steel;
Housing: Cast iron or aluminum alloy (customizable).
Is This Bearing Suitable For Heavy-Duty Working Conditions?
Yes, it’s designed as heavy-duty grade, with strong load-bearing and wear resistance.
Can The Housing Be Customized According To Installation Requirements?
We support customizations for size, mounting holes, and material as per your needs.
What Is The Service Life Of This Outer Spherical Vertical Housing Bearing?
Under normal use, the service life can reach 8000-12000 working hours.
How To Choose The Right Model For My Equipment?
Provide your equipment’s load, speed, and installation dimensions, we’ll recommend the best model.
Do You Offer After-Sales Support For This Bearing?
Yes, we provide technical guidance, replacement, and maintenance advice after purchase.
