Stainless steel is an alloy steel containing at least 10.5% chromium. Stainless steel does not corrode or rust as easily as regular steel. However, stainless steel is not completely resistant to fouling in environments with low oxygen, high salinity, or poor circulation. Stainless steel comes in different grades and surface finishes to suit the environment the alloy must withstand. The difference between stainless steel and carbon steel is the chromium content. Unprotected carbon steel rusts easily when exposed to air and moisture. Stainless steel contains enough chromium to form a passive film of chromium oxide, which prevents further surface corrosion by preventing the diffusion of oxygen to the steel surface and preventing corrosion from spreading to the internal structure of the metal.
Austenitic stainless steel has an austenite crystal structure, which is a face-centered cubic crystal structure. The most widely used austenitic steel is 304. The second most common austenitic steel is grade 316, also known as marine grade stainless steel, which is primarily used for corrosion resistance.
Martensitic stainless steels are not as corrosion resistant as the other two types of stainless steels, but are very strong, tough, and highly machinable, and can be hardened by heat treatment. The stainless steel 440C series consists of a martensitic type of stainless steel widely used in bearing applications requiring hardness, dimensional stability, corrosion resistance and toughness. Stainless steel does contain some carbon, so it's still slightly magnetic.
At AUB we stock SKF stainless steel ball bearings and economical alternatives. Stainless steel deep groove ball bearings are often used in the food and marine industries because the material does not rust. Stainless steel is resistant to water and other corrosive environments, making it ideal for applications where bearings may be exposed to any type of moisture. Although stainless steel ball bearings have a lower load carrying capacity than conventional chrome steel bearings, they otherwise have the same operating characteristics but are more environmentally resistant, which ensures minimal maintenance and reduces the likelihood of needing replacement.
440C stainless steel bearings resist corrosion and provide exceptional hardness and strength. 304 stainless steel cage and guard; grooved raceways on inner and outer rings accommodate moderate axial and radial loads in both directions. Available in open, sealed (2RS) or shielded (ZZ). ZZ and 2RS can be pre-lubricated with FM222 H1 food grade grease.
AUB manufactures a full range of corrosion resistant bearings, including stainless steel single row deep groove radial ball bearings. These ball bearings are forged from 440C stainless steel, the most common specification for the 400 series stainless carburized grade. This grade of stainless steel is heat treated to a Rockwell hardness of 58 for optimum wear resistance and service life. They are particularly effective in aqueous, corrosive, and abrasive environments; however, due to the carbon content of stainless steel, they may exhibit some surface film. Our stainless steel single row deep groove ball bearings feature double lip nitrile rubber seals and are most commonly used in high speed applications in the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. The double-lip nitrile rubber seal is effectively designed to not only prevent lubricants from coming into contact with the product being processed, but also prevent contaminants from entering the raceways and damaging the ball bearings.
316 Stainless Steel Ball Bearings. AUB manufactures radial ball bearings from 316 stainless steel, which offers superior corrosion resistance compared to conventional 440 stainless steel bearings. 316 stainless steel is widely used in food, medical, marine industries. Bearings made of this steel can run in liquids or dry at low speeds. Machined semi-precision rings, polymer cages, and 100 grade 316 stainless steel balls are used to manufacture 316 stainless steel ball bearings.
304 stainless steel ball bearings are widely used as a corrosion and heat resistant steel and also as a non-magnetic steel, best suited for corrosive environments where AISI 440C stainless steel cannot be used. In semi-precision grade bearings, 304 stainless steel can be selected for improved corrosion resistance above 440C. SS304 is not heat treated and therefore has significantly lower load and speed capabilities than HT 52100 and 440C. It is available in rings and balls or SS rings with ceramic balls. SS304 stainless steel has excellent resistance to aqueous corrosion and has excellent corrosion resistance when exposed to some common acids. SS304 is an excellent choice for food grade applications. Other applications may include marine and vacuum processes. 300 series stainless steel is also a common material for band and crown retainers. 300 series stainless steels are generally considered non-magnetic. Since SS304 bearings are not as common as 440C, size availability and minimum order requirements apply.
Rubber seals (RS/2RS) for optimum sealing action with increased friction. Metal shields (Z/ZZ) are suitable for higher speeds, but they have limited sealing effect because they are non-contact seals. Open unsealed bearings are suitable for very high speeds, and - they can be re-lubricated more easily. However, they are more likely to get dirty.
Proper lubrication and maintenance are essential to ensure the life and performance of stainless steel ball bearings. Reduce wear and friction by lubricating bearings with the right lubricant for the application. Also, it is important to keep the bearings clean and handle them with care to prevent damage. A maintenance plan should also be developed to ensure regular inspection and maintenance of bearings.
Stainless steel ball bearings are key components in a variety of equipment and machines. Known for their high performance and durability, stainless steel ball bearings are very common in a variety of industries.
Corrosion Resistant: An ideal solution for harsh environment applications where other bearings are prone to rust or other forms of corrosion.
Durability: can withstand heavy loads in challenging conditions
Low Friction: Extends service life and minimizes wear through low friction design
Versatility: Offers high precision and versatility for use in a variety of applications
Stainless steel ball bearings are versatile and efficient solutions for a wide range of applications. With their high corrosion resistance, durability and low friction, they are ideal for many industries. However, proper maintenance and lubrication are essential to ensure their longevity and performance. If your equipment requires bearings, consider stainless steel ball bearings because of their many benefits and applications.
Compared with ordinary chromium steel bearings, stainless steel bearings not only have obvious advantages in material, but also have much stricter process and precision control than ordinary chromium steel bearings. During the working process, the stainless steel bearings work smoothly, have low noise, are corrosion-resistant, and are widely used.