Self-aligning ball bearings

Self-aligning ball bearings are ball bearings with two rows and a spherical raceway in the outer ring. That geometry allows them to self-align and compensate angular misalignments between the shaft and the housing, as well as absorb shaft deflections. They are chosen when the mounting does not guarantee perfect alignment or when the shaft works with deflection: instead of forcing the bearing, it accompanies the movement. To define them, start from the shaft diameter and load type, and then check if sealing, internal clearance, and alignment tolerance are needed.

In the MR Accesorios Industriales catalog there are 341 self-aligning ball bearing references, all from SKF. Designations such as 2213 E-2RS1TN9 and RL 4 TN9 appear. In the 22 series, the prefix identifies a two-row self-aligning ball bearing with outer diameter corresponding to the 22 series; the suffix E indicates a version with higher load capacity, 2RS1 are two rubber seals, TN9 is the polyamide cage, and TN9 also appears in the RL series, which corresponds to self-aligning ball bearings of smaller section. Knowing these suffixes avoids ordering a part number that does not meet the actual requirement of the equipment.

Typical applications are equipment where the shaft flexes or the supports are not perfectly aligned: conveyors, fans, pumps, industrial laundry machines, belt drives, and process equipment in general. They are also used in positions where the load combines radial effort with moderate axial load in both directions, and where integrated sealing protects against dust and moisture.

To request a quote for a self-aligning ball bearing, the complete part number is needed, for example 2213 E-2RS1TN9 or RL 4 TN9, or the main dimensions: shaft diameter, outer diameter, and width. If you do not have the part number, the equivalent from another brand or the drawing of the position helps. With that data the corresponding SKF reference is confirmed and we respond via WhatsApp or email.

MR Accesorios Industriales sells bearings from Buenos Aires, Argentina, with more than 80 years of experience in the industrial sector. In addition to SKF self-aligning ball bearings, the catalog includes other bearing families and transmission components to complete the assembly.