The Role of Deep Groove Ball Bearings in Electric Motors

Bearings enable smooth and efficient shaft rotation within an electric motor. Choosing the right bearing can affect how well the electric motor will operate. Deep-groove ball bearings can be used in high-speed operations, support axial and radial loads, and are effective even in contaminant-rich or harsh operating environments. They can provide greater motor efficiency, reliability, and durability in your electric motors. 

Understanding Deep Groove Ball Bearings

Single-row deep groove ball bearings are the most common type of rolling bearings in electric motors. Their use is very widespread. As most rolling bearings they consist of inner and outer ring, rolling elements (balls) and a cage which separates the balls. The raceway grooves on both the inner and outer rings have circular arcs of slightly larger radius than that of the balls. In addition to radial loads, axial loads can be imposed in either direction. Because of their low torque, they are highly suitable for applications where high speeds and low power loss are required.

Deep Groove ball bearings are available in various sizes, component materials and executions, such as open or enclosed (shielded and/or sealed) and greased for life. Special executions, including those with current-insulating coatings, those with corrosion-resistant materials, and those that are filled and sealed with a molded, oil saturated polymerto prevent contamination are also used.

Deep groove ball bearings are designed for applications with high-speed requirements, as they have a smaller contact area between the balls and the raceways, making them suitable for electric motors in a variety of applications, from heavy industrial equipment to small appliances and fans. Deep groove ball bearings can support axial loads in both directions due to the deep raceway grooves in the rings and the narrow space between the grooves and balls. 

Deep groove ball bearings are available in both single and double-row designs. When selecting deep groove ball bearings for your application, many considerations can help you narrow down the specifications, ensuring that your selection will fit your needs.

Impact on Motor Efficiency

Deep groove ball bearings are considered one of the most efficient bearing options due to reduced friction and energy loss during operation. Their design contributes to smooth operation and reduced noise, which makes for more efficient operation and reduces energy use. The low-friction operation can increase the service life of the bearing, resulting in reduced downtime for the overall application. 

Certain deep groove ball bearings also can run cooler than standard bearings. This is a significant advantage of deep groove ball bearings, which boost overall motor performance and energy efficiency. As reduced friction generates less heat, deep groove ball bearings reduce the likelihood of breakdowns, increasing operational efficiency and productivity. 

Impact on Motor Reliability 

In addition to increased efficiency, the use of deep groove ball bearings also impacts motor reliability. When wear is reduced due to lower heat and friction, deep groove ball bearings can have a longer service life than other options. Extending motor lifespan and minimizing downtime is critical in most operating environments. Deep groove ball bearings can offer reliability by supporting rotor and shaft alignment, which prevents premature wear and component damage, extending the motor lifespan.

Factors Affecting Bearing Performance

Several factors will affect the performance of deep groove ball bearings, all of which should be considered when selecting bearings for individual applications. 

These include:

• Operating Conditions

Operating conditions include the speed at which the motor will run, the expected temperature of operation, and the load that will need to be supported during operation.

• Environmental Factors 

Different operating environments will impact the performance of deep groove ball bearings. Sealed deep groove ball bearings can be the solution to optimal performance when contamination or moisture is a concern during operation. In high-temperature environments, heat stabilized bearings can help increase longevity.

• Maintenance and Lubrication Practices

Deep groove ball bearings are designed to require minimal maintenance, but some lubrication is required. When installation or operational environments make maintenance or lubrication difficult, self-lubricating bearings can provide the right solution.

Emerging Trends and Technologies

As technology advances in electric motors and more is expected of the components, advances in bearing materials and designs must keep pace for improved performance. 

A way NSK deep groove ball bearings are advancing alongside electric motor technology is the design and use of specialty materials and coatings to offset some of the concerns associated with operating environments. 

NSK’s SPACEA™ series bearings are optimized with advanced materials, lubricants and surface treatments to deliver high performance and reliability in operating environments that are too extreme for standard bearings.

NSK’s HDY2 ceramic-coated insulating bearings are designed with optimized insulation and thermal conductivity characteristics to support energy efficiency and the growing adoption of inverter-controlled motors while effectively contending with the associated risk of electrical current damage to bearings.

Enhanced Electric Motor Efficiency and Reliability

Deep groove ball bearings are critical in electric motor operation due to their superior reliability and durability, increasing operational efficiency while minimizing downtime. 

Proper selection is essential for the best results from deep groove ball bearings, and the team at NSK can help with our online selection tool to find the perfect deep groove ball bearing for your application. When looking for the right bearing for an electric motor, deep groove ball bearings provide the enhanced efficiency and reliability you need. Contact us today to learn more.