Main Types of Spindle Bearings and How They Work Together

In high-speed CNC machines, machining centers, and precision grinders, the spindle is the heart of the system. Without the right spindle bearings, the main shaft may vibrate, shift axially, or lose accuracy — directly affecting machining quality and efficiency.

To ensure smooth, stable, and high-precision operation, it’s essential to use dedicated spindle bearings. But what types are available? And can they be used together?

Let’s explore the most common types of spindle bearings and how they work in combination.

1. Angular Contact Ball Bearings

Angular contact ball bearings are the most widely used in high-speed spindles, especially in CNC machining centers, grinding machines, and high-precision lathes.

- Can handle both radial and axial loads

- Available with 15°, 25°, or 30° contact angles

- 15°: Better for high speed

- 25°/30°: Higher axial load capacity

- Can be installed individually or in pairs (back-to-back, face-to-face, tandem)

- Ideal for high-speed, high-precision applications

2. Cylindrical Roller Bearings

Cylindrical roller bearings are designed for heavy radial loads.

- High radial load capacity

- Low friction, suitable for high-speed rotation

- Common types: single-row (NN30) or double-row (NNU49)

- Often used with angular contact bearings for better rigidity

- Not suitable for axial loads alone

3. Thrust Angular Contact Ball Bearings

These bearings are used for axial positioning in spindle systems.

- High axial load capacity

- High rigidity and vibration resistance

- Ideal for precision machining

- Double-direction types support loads in both directions

- Often paired with cylindrical roller bearings for improved accuracy

4. Hybrid Ceramic Bearings

Hybrid ceramic bearings use ceramic balls (Si3N4) with steel races.

- Ceramic balls are lighter, harder, and generate less heat

- Lower friction and higher speed capability

- Excellent thermal stability and longer service life

- Perfect for ultra-high-speed spindles (e.g., high-speed machining centers)

Can Spindle Bearings Be Used Together?

Yes — and they often should be.

Different bearings have different strengths. By combining them, you can create a balanced, high-performance spindle system.

Common Combinations:

- Angular contact + cylindrical roller = high rigidity and precision

- Thrust angular contact + roller bearing = excellent axial stability

- Hybrid ceramic + angular contact = high speed + high accuracy

This hybrid setup is widely used in high-end machine tools.

Why Choose Beining Technology?

At Beining Intelligent Technology, we specialize in manufacturing high-precision spindle bearings for:

- CNC machines

- Grinding equipment

- Industrial automation

- High-speed spindles

Our product range includes:

- Angular contact ball bearings (70, 72, 719,718 series and etc)
- Cylindrical roller bearings (NN30, NNU49)

- Hybrid ceramic bearings

- Custom solutions for special applications

We focus on precision, durability, and performance — helping you achieve smoother operation and higher machining accuracy.

Conclusion

Choosing the right spindle bearing is key to maximizing your machine’s performance. Whether you need high speed, heavy load capacity, or ultra-precision, there’s a spindle bearing — or combination — that fits your needs.

From angular contact and cylindrical roller to hybrid ceramic bearings, each type plays a vital role in modern spindle design. When used together, they deliver unmatched stability and accuracy.

Looking for reliable spindle bearings?

Contact Beining Technology today — your trusted partner in precision motion solutions.