What Is The Most Common Bearing Material in Bearing Processing [Quick]

There are many different materials for bearings, and many of these bearing materials function more effectively in certain applications than others. Take a minute to learn about the many different types of bearing materials.  

Chrome Steel Bearing Material– SAE 52100

This is the most common bearing material for precision ball bearings, roller bearings, and tapered roller bearings. This still has a high level of carbon within it and contains about 1.5% chromium.

These rolling bearings have a high resistance to cracking and a hard surface, which helps them to resist wear and tear from rolling.

Extra Clean 52100 Chrome Steel Bearing Material

Use this type of steel to create precision miniature bearings. Process it with additional melting steps. The resulting bearing is extremely quiet. Most often, the hardening process is done in a controlled atmosphere furnace. The resulting product can operate at temperatures up to 120°C.

SAE 52100 is by far the best general-purpose steel for making bearings. It hardens to a very high level and has a long life when actually in use. However, the low chromium level of 1.5%means these bearings are not very resistant to corrosion.

Martensitic Stainless Steel– AISI 440C

This type of bearing has higher carbon content. The lower carbon content results in a softer material, however, it makes the bearings magnetic. 

These bearings are slightly noisier than others, but they are able to operate at high temperatures of up to 250°C.

Martensitic Stainless Steel– 440C – ACD34

This material has smaller carbides in order to minimize noise, while also offering the same corrosion resistance as 440C. This is one of the most materials for bearings that have wide applications, and it can bear similar loads to that of chrome steel.

Bearing Material Austenitic Stainless Steel

Bearing components made from this type of stainless steel have a high resistance to corrosion and are non-magnetic because they are made with low amounts of carbon. However, this material cannot be hardened, so it only works with low loads and low speeds.