What does the suffix ... mean?

Seals and Shields

• RS, 2RS, 2RSH, 2RS1, RSR, 2RSR: These indicate that the bearing has rubber seals. "RS" means there's a seal on one side, while "2RS" indicates seals on both sides.

• ZZ, 2Z, ZR, Z: These denote metal shields for dust protection. "ZZ" or "2Z" means the bearing is shielded on both sides.

Internal Clearance

• C3, C4: These refer to increased internal clearance within the bearing. Bearings with these designations are suitable for high-speed operations and moderately high temperatures. However, they may not perform optimally at low speeds. Always check the data sheet for specific speed limits.

Cage Material

• TN9, TVH, TVP, G15: These suffixes indicate that the cage (which keeps the balls apart) is made from polymer materials, often glass-fiber-reinforced polyamide. This material choice can improve performance in certain applications.

Precision Standards

• ABEC: The Annular Bearing Engineers' Committee (ABEC) standard classifies bearings based on machining tolerances. While widely used, it does not cover all aspects affecting bearing performance, such as noise levels and vibration characteristics. Therefore, reliance on ABEC ratings alone may be insufficient for some applications.

High Temperature Applications

• BHT / VT: These suffixes signify that the bearing is designed for very high operating temperatures. The exact temperature range should be specified alongside this designation. Such bearings are specialized and not universally applicable.

Stainless Steel Bearings

To determine if your bearing is stainless steel:

• Look for a prefix "S" in the bearing reference number, indicating it is made from AISI 420 stainless steel. Note that stainless steel bearings are typically magnetic, unlike non-magnetic types like AISI 304.

Example: Understanding Part Number Variants

When choosing between different versions of a bearing (e.g., 6205-2RS vs. 6205-C3):

• 6205-2RS: Indicates a bearing sealed on both sides with rubber seals, providing splash protection.

• 6205-C3: Specifies a bearing with increased internal clearance, ideal for higher rotational speeds or temperatures but potentially less efficient at lower speeds.

By understanding these suffixes and prefixes, you can select the most appropriate bearing variant for your specific application needs, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Always consult the manufacturer’s datasheet for detailed specifications and recommendations.