Industrial robots need to be accurate, strong, and long-lasting. Choosing the right bearings helps them perform better in areas like:
- CNC machines
- Assembly lines
- Medical robotics
- Automation systems
Let’s break down how to pick the best bearings for different parts of a robot.
1. Pick the Right Bearing for Each Robot Joint
Waist/Base (Axis 1)
This part supports the whole robot and handles side forces.
Best choices:
- Cross Roller Bearings (CRB)
- YRT Rotary Table Bearings
Why? They are compact and can handle side force, pressure, and twisting all at once.
Used in: ABB IRB 6700
Shoulder/Elbow (Axes 2 & 3)
These joints move heavy loads and bend under stress.
Best choices:
- Harmonic Drive Bearings (thin CRB or angular contact)
- Tapered Roller Bearings (for very heavy loads)
Why? They help carry heavy weight and resist bending.
Used in: KUKA KR QUANTEC
Wrist Joints (Axes 4, 5, 6)
These need to move fast and precisely.
Best choices:
- Matched Angular Contact Ball Bearings (DF/DB pairs)
- Thin-Section Ball Bearings (for lighter robots like cobots)
Why? They offer high speed and accuracy in small spaces.
Used in: Yaskawa Motoman, UR10e
Linear Motion (e.g., SCARA Z-axis)
Some robots move straight up and down.
Best choices:
- Ball or Roller Linear Guides (for high precision, e.g., THK SR series)
- Linear Bushings (for simpler, lower-cost designs)
Why? They allow smooth and accurate linear movement.
2. What Else to Consider When Choosing Bearings?
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Factor
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What to Look For
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Load Type
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Use roller bearings for heavy loads, ball bearings for lighter ones
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Precision
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High-tech applications (like medical or semiconductors) need P4/P2 grade bearings
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Speed
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Angular contact ball bearings with ceramic balls work best for fast motion
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Stiffness
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Preloaded bearings reduce flexing and improve accuracy
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Environment
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Choose stainless steel for cleanrooms, sealed types for dust/water, special materials for heat
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Life Span
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Aim for a bearing life of at least 20,000 hours. Use high-quality steel (GCr15), hardened to HRC 58–62
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3. Other Important Things to Know
- Lubrication: Use grease for normal speeds, oil-air systems for high-speed use
- Seals: Good seals keep dirt out and oil in. Balance sealing with low friction
- Installation: Precise mounting (within 0.005mm alignment) and correct preload are key
- Monitoring: Add sensors to check vibration and temperature for early warning signs
Why Work With Us,Beining Technology?
We help you:
- Understand your robot’s needs (speed, load, accuracy)
- Get help with installation, lubrication, and setup
- Keep your robots running longer with fewer breakdowns
Let us help you improve your robot’s performance, precision, and lifespan.
Contact us today for expert advice on industrial robot bearings!
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