FAG guide
What FAG manufactures and what it stands out for
FAG produces a wide range of bearings for industrial and automotive applications, including deep groove ball bearings, angular contact bearings, cylindrical, tapered, spherical, axial and super precision bearings. It also manufactures mounting accessories such as adapter and withdrawal sleeves, lock nuts and lock washers, and split housings.
The brand stands out for the dimensional precision of its bearings and for offering specific variants for high speeds, combined loads and contaminated environments. Its designations follow a clear logic that allows identifying the type, size and constructional characteristics of each part.
FAG lines sold by MR
MR Accesorios Industriales works with three main FAG categories: bearings, bushings and sleeves, and bearing housings. Within bearings, the main subcategories are special bearings, spherical roller bearings, cylindrical roller bearings, tapered roller bearings, deep groove ball bearings, angular contact bearings, axial ball bearings, self-aligning ball bearings, axial spherical roller bearings and toroidal roller bearings.
In bushings and sleeves we sell withdrawal sleeves, adapter sleeves, lock nuts and lock washers. In bearing housings, we offer the split housing line.
Main FAG series
Each FAG series groups bearings or accessories with common dimensional and design characteristics. Knowing the series helps you quickly identify the product type and its typical application.
AH series (withdrawal sleeve)
AH withdrawal sleeves are used to mount and dismount bearings with tapered bore on cylindrical shafts. Their thread allows fitting a nut that pushes the bearing to remove it without damaging the shaft. Examples: AH208, AH209.
H series (adapter sleeve)
H adapter sleeves are used to mount bearings with tapered bore on cylindrical shafts. They are secured with a nut and allow a firm and detachable fit. Examples: H203, H204.
23xx series (spherical roller bearings)
Spherical roller bearings of the 23xx series support high radial and axial loads in both directions, with self-aligning capability. They are ideal for shafts with flexing or misalignment. Examples: 23948-MB, 23952-MB.
HCB series (special bearings)
The HCB series corresponds to super precision angular contact bearings with ceramic balls (hybrid), designed for machine tool spindles and high-speed applications. Examples: HCB7000-C-T-P4S, HCB7000-E-T-P4S.
SL series (cylindrical roller bearings)
SL cylindrical roller bearings are single row with high radial load capacity. They are used in gearboxes and high-demand machines. Examples: SL181840, SL181844.
32xx series (tapered roller bearings)
The 32xx series groups single row tapered roller bearings, suitable for combined radial and axial loads. They are common in gearboxes and wheel axles. Examples: 32324, 32326.
B series (special bearings)
B series super precision bearings are used in machine tool spindles and other high-speed applications, where maximum rotational accuracy is required. Examples: B7000-C-T-P4S, B7000-E-T-P4S.
NU series (cylindrical roller bearings)
NU bearings have two ribs on the outer ring and none on the inner, allowing axial displacement. They support high radial loads and high speeds. Examples: NU1044-M1, NU1048-M1.
22xx series (spherical roller bearings)
The 22xx series includes medium-section spherical roller bearings, with high load capacity and self-aligning capability. They are used in fans, pumps and heavy machinery. Examples: 22205-E1-XL, 22206-E1-XL.
VCM series (special bearings)
The VCM series are super precision bearings for machine tool spindles, designed for high speeds and rotational accuracy. Examples: VCM7005-C-T-P4S-XL, VCM7005-E-T-P4S-XL.
How to read a FAG code
The FAG designation combines numbers and letters that indicate the bearing type, dimensional series, size and specific characteristics. Understanding this structure allows you to order the exact replacement and avoid costly errors.
Deep groove ball bearing 6003
The code 6003 is broken down as follows: 6 indicates single row deep groove ball bearing; 0 is the diameter series (series 60, thin section); 03 corresponds to the bore diameter, and in codes 00, 01, 02 and 03 it equals 10, 12, 15 and 17 mm. Thus, 6003 is a bearing with a 17 mm bore.
Tapered roller bearing 30336
In 30336, the first three digits (303) identify the single row tapered roller bearing series. The number 36 indicates the bore diameter: 36 × 5 = 180 mm. Suffixes, if any, add information about design or precision.
Adapter sleeve H203
The code H203 corresponds to an adapter sleeve for a 17 mm shaft. The letter H indicates adapter sleeve; the number 203 relates to the shaft diameter and the bearing to be mounted. For larger shafts, the number increases (H204 for 20 mm, H205 for 25 mm, etc.).
Super precision bearing B7000-C-T-P4S
In B7000-C-T-P4S, B indicates super precision bearing; 7000 is the angular contact series; C defines the contact angle (15°); T indicates phenolic resin cage reinforced with fabric; P4S is the precision class. Each block provides critical information for the application.
Frequent FAG prefixes and suffixes
Suffixes in FAG codes indicate constructional characteristics, materials, seals or precisions. Recognizing them helps you compare options and choose the appropriate variant.
2RS
Indicates that the bearing has rubber seals on both sides, which protects against contamination and retains grease. It is common in deep groove ball bearings for applications with dust or moisture.
C3
Indicates an internal clearance greater than normal. It is used when there are temperature differences between inner and outer rings, or when the fit is tight. It is the most common clearance in industrial applications.
XL
Indicates the X-life execution, with optimized surfaces and improved materials that increase service life and load capacity. It appears in many modern series.
TVP
Corresponds to a polyamide cage reinforced with fiberglass, guided by the rolling elements. It is lightweight and suitable for high speeds and moderate temperatures.
MB
Indicates a machined solid brass cage. It is used in large or high-load bearings, where greater strength and precise roller guidance are required.
E1
Indicates the reinforced internal design of high load capacity spherical roller bearings; the cage type is indicated by another suffix.
Applications by industry in Argentina
FAG bearings are used in virtually all industries in the country. Below are the most common applications by sector.
Metallurgy
In rolling mills, roller trains, shears and conveyor tables, large spherical, cylindrical and tapered roller bearings are used, along with adapter and withdrawal sleeves for large diameter shafts.
Agriculture
In harvesters, seeders, tractors and grain processing equipment, deep groove ball, tapered and spherical roller bearings are used, with effective seals to resist dust and moisture.
Naval
In propulsion shafts, winches and deck equipment, spherical and cylindrical roller bearings are used, with corrosion protection and capacity for heavy loads.
Oil and gas
In pumps, compressors, top drives and drilling equipment, high precision and resistant bearings are required, such as angular contact, cylindrical and axial ball bearings.
Food
In conveyors, mixers, fillers and sanitary pumps, deep groove ball bearings with adequate seals and lubrication are used, prioritizing cleanliness.
Mining
In mills, crushers, conveyor belts and shovels, large spherical roller bearings are used, with adapter sleeves and split housings to facilitate maintenance.
Paper
In paper machine rolls, calenders and winders, precision spherical and cylindrical roller bearings are used, capable of withstanding high speeds and loads.
Cement
In rotary kilns, ball mills and crushers, axial and radial spherical roller bearings are used, with split housings and robust fixing systems.
Energy
In generators and electric motors, deep groove ball, cylindrical and spherical roller bearings are used, with high reliability and long service life.
Automotive
In gearboxes, differentials and wheels, tapered, deep groove ball and angular contact bearings are used, with tight tolerances and efficient seals.
Plastics
In extruders, injection molding machines and blow molding machines, high precision angular contact and cylindrical roller bearings are used, capable of withstanding axial loads and high temperatures.
Refrigeration
In conveyor belts, saws and cold equipment, deep groove ball bearings with seals and lubrication suitable for low temperatures and frequent washing are used.
Sugar
In mills, crushers and cane conveyors, large spherical roller bearings are used, with adapter sleeves and split housings to withstand heavy loads and humid environments.
How to choose the correct FAG
Selecting the right bearing requires evaluating the working conditions. These are the main criteria:
Load
Determine whether the load is radial, axial or combined. Deep groove ball bearings support both; cylindrical mainly radial; tapered and angular contact combined; spherical roller bearings heavy loads with misalignment.
Speed
For high speeds, deep groove ball or angular contact bearings with lightweight cages are suitable. Spherical and tapered roller bearings are for moderate speeds.
Sealing
If there is contamination, choose bearings with seals (2RS) or shields (ZZ). In clean environments with relubrication, you can use open bearings.
Internal clearance
C3 clearance is the most used in industrial applications with tight fits or thermal differences. C2 is smaller and C4 larger; choose according to the equipment manufacturer's recommendation.
Mounting
If the shaft is cylindrical and you need tapered mounting, use an adapter sleeve (H series) or withdrawal sleeve (AH series). Check the shaft diameter and the bearing to be mounted.
Environment
In humid or corrosive environments, consider bearings with seals and special lubrication. For high temperatures, there are variants with heat treatment and metal cages.
Equivalences and interchangeability
Many FAG codes have their correspondence in other brands, since dimensions are standardized. For example, the FAG deep groove ball bearing 61909-2RZ has its SKF equivalent with the same code. The same happens with sleeves such as AH3044 or H2316, which we also sell in NTN, TIMKEN or BGL.
When comparing equivalents, verify that the main dimensions (inner diameter, outer diameter and width), bearing type and suffixes for sealing, clearance and precision match. Not all suffixes are the same between brands, so it is advisable to confirm with the technical data sheet.
Frequent errors when replacing or buying FAG
Avoid these common errors to ensure a correct and long-lasting replacement:
Ignoring suffixes
A 6205-2RS is not the same as a 6205-ZZ: the first has rubber seals and the second metal shields. The sealing affects protection and speed limit.
Not checking internal clearance
If the original bearing was C3 and you install one with normal clearance, you may have overheating or premature failure due to inadequate fit.
Confusing adapter sleeve with withdrawal sleeve
H sleeves are for mounting and fixing; AH are for dismounting. Using the wrong one can damage the shaft or the bearing.
Not considering precision
In machine tool spindles, a standard precision bearing does not replace a P4S. Rotational accuracy and rigidity are critical.
Mounting, lubrication and maintenance
Correct mounting and adequate lubrication are key to maximizing the service life of FAG bearings.
Mounting
Use appropriate tools: press, induction heater or mounting sleeves. Never strike directly on the rings. For bearings with tapered bore, use adapter sleeves and nuts, controlling axial advance to achieve the correct fit.
Lubrication
Choose grease or oil according to speed, temperature and load. Respect the recommended amount: excess grease generates heat. In contaminated environments, relubricate more frequently.
Maintenance
Monitor vibrations, temperature and noise. Schedule inspections to detect early wear. When dismounting, use withdrawal sleeves to avoid damaging the shaft or the bearing that may be reused.
Why get a FAG quote at MR Accesorios Industriales
MR Accesorios Industriales is an Argentine company with a history since 1945, located in Buenos Aires, Argentina. We sell FAG bearings, bushings and sleeves, and housings, with an online catalog that allows you to search by code and view the technical data sheet of each product.
If you have the FAG code, the measurement or a photo of the part, write to us via WhatsApp or email and we will quote you promptly. Our technical team helps you identify the correct bearing and resolve equivalents with other brands.
Frequently asked questions about FAG
- What does the suffix 2RS mean in a FAG bearing?
- The suffix 2RS indicates that the bearing has rubber seals on both sides. This protects against the entry of contaminants and retains grease, making it suitable for dusty or humid environments. It is common in deep groove ball bearings.
- How do I know if I need a bearing with C3 clearance?
- C3 clearance is greater than normal and is recommended when there are tight fits between shaft and housing, or when there is a significant temperature difference between the inner and outer rings. It is the most used clearance in industrial applications.
- What is the difference between an H sleeve and an AH sleeve?
- The H sleeve is an adapter sleeve: it is used to mount and secure bearings with tapered bore on cylindrical shafts. The AH sleeve is a withdrawal sleeve: it is placed to extract the bearing without damaging the shaft. They are not interchangeable.
- Can I replace a FAG bearing with one from another brand with the same code?
- In general, the basic codes (such as 6205 or 22205) are dimensionally equivalent between brands. However, you must verify that the suffixes for sealing, clearance and precision match, as they may vary between manufacturers.
- What does the suffix XL mean in FAG bearings?
- XL indicates the X-life execution, which incorporates improvements in the design of contact surfaces and materials. This translates into greater load capacity and extended service life compared to the standard version.
- How do I identify the bore diameter in a FAG code?
- For bearings with a two-digit code at the end, from 04 onwards multiply that number by 5 to get the diameter in mm (for example, 6205: 05 × 5 = 25 mm). Codes 00, 01, 02 and 03 equal 10, 12, 15 and 17 mm. For codes with a slash (such as 230/500), the number after the slash is the diameter in mm.
- Which FAG bearing is used for high speeds?
- Deep groove ball bearings and angular contact bearings with lightweight cages (TVP) are suitable for high speeds. Super precision bearings (B, HCB, VCM series) are used in machine tool spindles where speed and precision are critical.
- Where can I get a quote for FAG bearings in Argentina?
- You can get a quote at MR Accesorios Industriales, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Send the FAG code, the measurement or a photo of the part via WhatsApp or email, and we will respond promptly with the proposal.
Updated September 29, 2026