Precision Rolling Bearings

Page

TECHNICAL DATA
CONTENTS

1. Classification of Precision Rolling Bearings for Machine Tools 24

q Main spindle bearings 2
w Ball screw support bearings 4

2. Bearing Selection and Shaft & Housing Design 515

q Bearing selection 5
w Bearing accuracy 7
e Bearings and rigidity 11
r Designing bearing and housing 14

3. Load Rating and Life 1621

q Bearing life 16
w Static load rating and allowable axial load20

4. Allowable Speed 21
5. Bearing Arrangements and Structures of Bearings for Main Spindles 2226
q
w
e
r

Bearing arrangement for main spindles 22

Bearing selection based on bearing arrangement for main spindle 24
Adjustable preload bearing unit 25
Bearing jacket cooling system 26

6. Handling of Bearings 2738

q
w
e
r
t
y
u
i
o

Cleaning and filling with grease 27

Mounting 28
Tightening of inner ring 30
Elastic deformation of spacer resulting from tightening force31
Front cover drive-up 31
Checking axial rigidity 32
Clearance adjustment for cylindrical roller bearing 33
Cylindrical roller bearing tapered bore and main spindle taper angle 37
Running-in operation for main spindle bearing 38

7. Lubrication of Bearings 3947

q Grease lubrication 40
w Air-oil lubrication41
e Jet lubrication 47

8. New Technologies 4853

q The new series of super-high-speed precision bearings
for machine tool main spindles "ULTAGE Series" 48
w New material and new surface modification technology 48
e Environmentally conscious technology 50
1

Technical Data

1. Classification of Precision Rolling Bearings for

Machine Tools

Main spindle bearings

Table .1 Types of precision rolling bearings for machine tools
Cross section

15

79 (U), 5S-79 (U)

10170

15, 25, 30

70 (U), 5S-70 (U)

10200

15, 25, 30

72C

10130

15

High-speed

2LA-HSE9U
5S-2LA-HSE9

50170

Super high-speed

2LA-HSE0
5S-2LA-HSE0

5S-2LA-HSF0

50100

25

Eco-friendly

5S-2LA-HSL9U

50170

20, 25

50100

25

5S-2LA-HSL0

HSE with Lubrication hole

5S-2LA-HSFL0
5S-2LA-HSEW9U

50100

20, 25

5S-2LA-HSEW0

1050
Non-contact sealed type

70 LLB
5S-70 LLB

45100

15, 20, 25

2LA-BNS0 LLB
5S-2LA-BNS0 LLB

1065

NN49 (K)

100320

NN30 (K)
NN30HS (K)

2560
140460

ULTAGE series
Featuring a two-side non-contact seal design and a
special grease, these bearings are a dedicated grease
lubricated type that has achieved limited heat buildup
through optimization of the interior structure.
Bearings with prefix 5S have ceramic balls.
ULTAGE series
Maintaining the advantages of HSE type, this dedicated
grease lubricated type has an improved interior design
(grease reservoir, both -side non-contact seal and
special grease) to extend grease life.
Bearings with prefix 5S have ceramic balls.

Angular contact ball bearing series for grinding

machines/motors.
All variants are flush ground.
Bearings with prefix 5S have ceramic balls.

136
137

138
147

148
155

156
171

172
195

196
207

1080

65130
100500

The bearing clearance can be either

interchangeable radial clearance or
non-interchangeable radial clearance.
A variant (K) is available with a tapered bore to
accommodate a tapered shaft.

224

NNU49 (K)

1070

15

ULTAGE series
High speed angular contact ball bearings with lubrication
hole on outer ring, designed especially for air-oil
lubrication based on HSE type. These bearings have an
effect on compact design and high rigidity of spindle. Air
flow rate and oil consumption can be reduced.
Bearings with prefix 5S have ceramic balls.

135

BNT9
5S-BNT9
BNT0
5S-BNT0
BNT2
5S-BNT2

ULTAGE series
These bearings are identical to the HSE and HSF types
except in that they are air-oil lubrication designs that
have an eco-friendly nozzle.
Featuring lower noise, reduced air and oil consumption,
they positively improve operating environments and
reduce energy consumption.
Bearings with prefix 5S have ceramic balls.

112

2LA-BNS9 LLB
5S-2LA-BNS9 LLB

Non-contact sealed type

15, 25

ULTAGE series
Maintaining the advantages of HSE type, this type has
small diameter ceramic balls to achieve higher speed
and limited heat buildup.
Bearings with prefix 5S have ceramic balls.

111

79 LLB
5S-79 LLB

ULTAGE series
Use of special material and introduction of surface
modification contribute to much improved wear
resistance and anti-seizure property.
Optimized specifications for the interior structure lead to
higher speed, rigidity and reliability.
Bearings with prefix 5S have ceramic balls.

84

15, 20, 25

A bearing type code containing a suffix U means an

ULTAGE series bearing. Optimized interior structure
and resin cage help positively inhibit temperature rise
(applicable to 79 and 70 types with bore diameter of 10
to 130 mm).
Bearings with prefix 5S have ceramic balls.

Page

Standard

25170

Remarks

High-speed

78C

NN30HST6 (K)
NN30HSRT6 (K)
Double-row
cylindrical roller
bearing

Bearing bore mm Contact angle

Angular
contact ball
bearing

Bearing type

Standard

Bearing type

229

Technical Data

Bearing type
Standard

Cross section

N10HSR (K)

55100

N10HSL (K)

55100

Plug gage TA

Plug gage

30160

Contact
angle

High-speed

N10HS (K)

Bearing bore mm

Eco-friendly

Single-row
cylindrical roller
bearing

Bearing type

Ring gage

Remarks
The boundary dimensions of the N10HS(K)
high-speed single-row cylindrical roller bearing
are the same as those of the N10(K). Only the
bearing clearance is non-interchangeable.
A ceramic-roller-type (5S-N10) is available
on request.
ULTAGE series
Optimized internal design allows higher speed and
results in lower temperature rise.
The cage is made of a special resin to cope with
a high-speed operation.
The allowable maximum speed is higher than
that of the conventional high-speed cylindrical
roller bearing N10HS(K).
ULTAGE series
This is a dedicated air-oil lubricated type identical to
the N10HSR(K) type except in that it incorporates an
eco-friendly nozzle.
Still maintaining the high-speed performance of the
N10HSR(K) type, this type boasts lower noise, reduced
air and oil consumption, and positively improves operating
environments and reduces energy consumption.

Page

230

233

234

235

236

237

30160

Ring gage TB

30160

SB

35160

Taper gage for N10-HS(K) single-row cylindrical

roller bearing and NN30(K) double-row cylindrical
roller bearing.

238

Clearance gage for N10-HSK(K), N10-HSR(K)

single-row cylindrical roller bearing and NN30(K),
NN30HS(K) double-row cylindrical roller bearing.

239

Fixed position adjustable preload bearing unit.

Incorporation of an adjustable preload sleeve and
a duplex angular ball bearing allows the user to
adjust the preload of an angular ball bearing in a
wider range from a light preload to a heavy
preload.
Fixed position preload leads to a greater rigidity.

60

The small bearing is used on a cylinder bore or

smaller-diameter side of a tapered bore of the
NNU49, NN49 or NN30 double-row cylindrical
roller bearing; the large bearing (suffix M) is used
on the large hole side of a tapered bore.

250

253

Taper gage

Clearance adjustment gauge

Adjustable preload
bearing unit

Adjustable preload bearing unit

5629 (M)

5620 (M)
Double-direction angular contact thrust ball bearing
HTA9U

Angular contact ball bearing for axial load

Tapered roller bearings

HTA0U
5S-HTA0U

Small-size 100320
Large-size (M) 104330
Small-size 25320
Large-size (M) 27330

100320
25320
25130

329

50190

320

20170

HTA9DB series bearings are fully compatible

with 5629 series bearings.

30, 40
HTA0DB series bearings are fully compatible
with 5620 series bearings.

Nominal
contact
angle of
Thin-wall type, ISO-compatible metric series.
10 or
greater,
17 or
smaller

254

265

270

273

Technical Data

Ball screw support bearings

Bearing type

Cross section

Bearing type

Bearing bore mm Contact angle

BST LXL/L588
2A-BST LXL/L588
Light-contact
Angular contact thrust ball bearing for ball screws sealed type

640

60

30

The allowable axial load of this bearing type is

greater owing to the improved interior design.

288
293

294

HT

1755

ULTAGE series
Surface modification treatment on the bearing
ring raceways has led to a longer bearing life
and much improved fretting resistance.
Owing to prelubrication with a special grease,
the sealed type boasts a longer bearing life
and simpler maintenance work.
All variants are flush-ground and are provided
with a standard preload.

Page

BST
2A-BST
Open type

Remarks

295
Angular contact ball bearing for ball screws

2050

Needle roller bearings with double-direction

thrust needle roller bearing

Cylindrical roller bearings with

double-direction thrust needle roller bearing

2070

296
297

298

ARN

A clearance remains between the inner ring of

radial bearing and the inner rings of both
thrust bearings, allowing the user to determine
the preload by, for example, tightening a nut
etc.
The targeted preload is attained based on the
starting torque.
The bearing clearance on certain preloaded
bearings is controlled in advance so that an
intended preload is attained by fully tightening
the inner rings on both thrust bearing with
nuts, or equivalent means.

AXN

299

Technical Data

2. Bearing Selection and Shaft & Housing Design

Bearing selection
Generally, the optimal bearing must be selected to
suit the nature of the machine, the area within the
machine, the spindle specification, bearing type,
lubrication system and drive system of the intended
machine through considerations of the design life,

precision, rigidity and critical speed, etc. of the bearing.

Table 2.1 summarizes a typical bearing selection
procedure, and Table 2.2 gives an example flowchart
according to which considerations are made to select
an optimal main spindle bearing for a machine tool.

Table 2.1 Bearing selection procedure

Step

Items being considered

Items being confirmed

Confirm operating conditions

of bearing and consider
bearing type.

Function and construction

of components to house
bearings
Bearing mounting location
Dimensional limitations
Magnitude and direction of
bearing load
Magnitude of vibration and
shock load
Shaft speed
Bearing arrangement
(fixed side, floating side)

Noise and torque of the

bearing
Bearing operating
temperature range
Bearing rigidity
Installation / disassembly
requirements
Maintenance and
inspection
Cost-effectiveness
Allowable misalignment of
inner/outer rings

Select bearing dimensions.

Design life of components

to house bearings
Dynamic/static equivalent
load conditions

Safety factor So
Allowable speed
Allowable axial load

Select bearing tolerances.

Shaft runout tolerances

Torque fluctuation

High-speed operation

Select bearing internal

clearance.

Material and shape of

shaft and housing
Fit
Temperature difference
between inner and outer
rings

Allowable misalignment of
inner/outer rings
Magnitude and nature of
load
Amount of preload

Select cage.

Rotational speed
Noise level

Vibration and shock load

Lubrication

Cage type

Select lubrication method.

Operating temperature
Rotational speed
Lubrication method

Sealing method
Maintenance and
inspection

Decide lubrication method,

lubricant, and sealing
method.

Consider special
specifications.

Operating conditions
(special environments: high or low temperature, chemical)
Requirement for high reliability

Select installation and

disassembly procedures.

Mounting dimensions

Installation and
disassembly procedures

Determine bearing type

and arrangement.

Determine bearing
dimensions.

Decide bearing grade.

Decide bearing internal

clearance.

Decide special bearing

specifications.

Decide installation and

disassembly procedures.

Technical Data

Table 2.2 Bearing selection procedure

Users requirements
Max.
speed

Main spindle
size

Lubrication
system

NG
Bearing size.
Consideration
of allowable
dmn value.

Consideration
of fit.

Consideration of
tightening force for
inner ring spacer.
Consideration of
drive-up of front cover.

Estimation of bearing internal

preload at maximum speed
and consideration of bearing
initial clearance according to
NTNs bearing selection guideline.

Finalization
of bearing
specifications.

Consideration of
rigidity of bearing
and main spindle.
Consideration of
bearing life.
OK

Finalization of main spindle specifications

The articles necessary for basic considerations in selecting an optimal main spindle bearing for machine tool are
summarized in Table 2.3.

(2) Main spindle orientation

Vertical, horizontal, variable-direction, inclined, etc.

(3) Diameter and size of main spindle

#30, #40, #50, etc.

d2
d3
d4

NC Lathe, machining center, grinding machine, etc.

d1

(1) Type of Machine

Bearing type/Bearing number

Fr1

d7

Table 2.3 Selection procedure for bearings for main spindles of machine tools

Rotar
(Weight m)

Fr

Pulley

Fm
(4) Shape and mounting-related
dimensions of main spindle

Fa

Main spindle inner diameter

Main spindle inner diameter

d6-1

d5-1

Main spindle outer diameter

d5

Main spindle outer diameter

d6

Fig. 2.1 Main spindle shape and mounting-related dimensions (example)

(5) Intended bearing type, bearing size, and
preloading method

Front (angular contact type, cylindrical roller type) or rear (angular contact type, cylindrical
roller type) preloading system (fixed-position preloading, fixed-pressure preloading)

(6) Slide system free side

Cylindrical roller bearing, ball bushing (availability of cooling)

(7) Lubrication method

Grease, air-oil, oil mist (MicronLub)

(8) Drive system

Built-in motor, belt drive, coupling

of jacket cooling
(9) Presence/absence
arrangement on bearing area

Yes/No

(10) Jacket cooling conditions

Synchronization with room temperature, machine-to-machine synchronization, oil feed rate (L/min)
Max. speed (min-1)

(11) Operating speed range

Normal speed range (min-1)

Operating speed range (min-1)
Load center
Applied load Radial load Fr (N) Axial load Fa (N)

(12) Load conditions (machining conditions)

Speed
Machining frequency
Intended bearing life

Technical Data

Bearing accuracy
Bearing accuracy
Accuracies of rolling bearings, that is, dimensional
accuracy and running accuracy of rolling bearings are
defined by applicable ISO standards and JIS B 1514
standard (Rolling bearings - Tolerances) (Tables 2.4
and 2.5). The dimensional accuracy governs the
tolerances that must be satisfied when mounting a
bearing to a shaft or housing, while the running

accuracy defines a permissible run-out occurring when

rotating a bearing by one revolution. Methods for
measuring the accuracy of rolling bearings (optional
methods) are described in JIS B 1515 (Measuring
methods for rolling bearings). Table 2.6 summarizes
some typical methods for measuring running accuracy
of rolling bearings.

Table 2.4 Bearing types and applicable tolerance

Bearing type

Applicable standard

Cylindrical roller bearigns

Class 6

Class 5

Class 4

Class 2

JIS B 1514
ISO492

Class 0

class 6

Class 5

Class 4

Class 2

Class 0

class 6

Class 5

Class 4

JIS B 1514

Class 0,6X

class 6

Class 5

Class 4

Needle roller bearings

Metric
Tapered roller
bearings

ANSI/ABMA Std.19

Class 4

Class 2

Class 3

Class 0

Class 00

ANSI/ABMA Std.19.1

Class K

Class N

Class C

Class B

Class A

Class 5

Class 4

Inch
J series

Tolerance class
Class 0

Angular contact ball bearings

Double row angular contact

thrust ball bearings

NTN standard

Table 2.5. Comparison of tolerance classifications of national standards

Standard
Japanese industrial
standard (JIS)

International Organization
for Standardization (ISO)

Deutsches Institut
fur Normung(DIN)

American National
Standards Institute (ANSI)
American Bearing
Manufacturer's Association
(ABMA)

Applicable standerd

Tolerance Class

Bearing Types

Class 5 Class 4

Class 2

All type

ISO 492

Normal
class
Class 6X

Class 6 Class 5 Class 4

Class 2

Radial bearings

ISO 199

Normal
Class

Class 6 Class 5 Class 4

ISO 578

Class 4

Class 3 Class 0 Class 00 Tapered roller bearings (Inch series)

ISO 1224

Class 5A Class 4A

P0

P6

JIS B 1514

Class 0,6X

DIN 620
1

Class 6

P5

P4

Thrust ball bearings

Precision instrument bearings

P2

All type

Radial bearings
ABEC-3 ABEC-5
ABEC-7 ABEC-9 (Except tapered roller bearings)
RBEC-3 RBEC-5

ANSI/ABMA Std.20

ABEC-1
RBEC-1

ANSI/ABMA Std.19.1

Class K

Class N Class C Class B

ANSI/ABMA Std.19

Class 4

Class 2 Class 3 Class 0 Class 00 Tapered roller bearings (Inch series)

Class A

Tapered roller bearings (Metric series)

1 "ABEC" is applied for ball bearings and "RBEC" for roller bearings.
Notes 1: JIS B 1514, ISO 492 and 199, and DIN 620 have the same specification level.
2: The tolerance and allowance of JIS B 1514 are slightly different from those of ABMA standards.

Technical Data

To attain a higher level of running accuracy required

of a main spindle of machine tool, a high-precision
bearing that satisfies the user's main spindle
specifications must be chosen. Usually, a highprecision bearing per JIS accuracy class 5, 4 or 2 is
selected according to an intended application. In
particular, the radial run-out, axial run-out and nonrepetitive run-out of a main spindle bearing greatly
affect the running accuracy of the main spindle and
therefore have to be strictly controlled. With the recent
super high-precision machine tools, the control of
N.R.R.O. (Non-Repetitive Run-Out) has increasing

importance, and the main spindle on a turning machine

or machining center incorporates an N.R.R.O. accuracy
controlled bearing. For further information about
N.R.R.O., refer to the following section. Note that to
attain a higher accuracy with a main spindle, careful
considerations need to be exercised for the accuracies
(circularity, cylindricity, coaxiality) of machine
components other than a bearing (shaft, housing) as
well as machining method and finish accuracy of the
shaft and housing. For the information about the
accuracies of shaft and housing, refer to a section given
later.

Table 2.6 Measuring methods for running accuracies

Characteristic tolerance

Measurement method
Measuring load

Measuring load

Inner ring radial runout

(Kia)

Measuring load

Measuring load

Outer ring radial runout

(Kea)

Measuring load

Measuring load

Inner ring axial runout

(Sia)

Radial runout of the outer ring is

the difference between the
maximum and minimum reading
of the measuring device when
the outer ring is turned one
revolution.

Axial runout of the inner ring is

the difference between the
maximum and minimum reading
of the measuring device when
the inner ring is turned one
revolution.

Outer ring axial runout

(Sea)

Axial runout of the outer ring is

the difference between the
maximum and minimum reading
of the measuring device when
the outer ring is turned one
revolution.

Inner ring side

runout with bore
(Sd)

Inner ring side runout with bore

is the difference between the
maximum and minimum reading
of the measuring device when
the inner ring is turned one
revolution together with the
tapered mandrel.

Measuring load

Measuring load

1.2rs max

Outer ring outside

surface inclination
(SD)

Radial runout of the inner ring is

the difference between the
maximum and minimum reading
of the measuring device when
the inner ring is turned one
revolution.

1.2rs max
Reinforcing
plate

Outer ring outside surface

inclination is the difference
between the maximum and
minimum reading of the measuring
device when the outside ring is
turned one revolution along the
reinforcing plate.

Technical Data

N.R.R.O. (Non-Repetitive Run-Out) of bearing

Accuracies of rolling bearings are defined by
applicable ISO standards and a JIS (Japanese
Industrial Standard) standard, wherein the accuracies
are discussed under the descriptions of radial run-out
(Kia), axial run-out (Sia), etc. According to the methods
for measuring running accuracies in Table 2.6, run-out
is read by turning a bearing by only one revolution
(each reading is synchronized with the revolution of the
bearing being analyzed).
In fact, however, a rolling bearing for machine tool is
used in a continuous revolving motion that involves
more than one revolution. As a result, the actual run-out
accuracy with a rolling bearing includes elements that
are not synchronous with the revolution of the bearing
(for example, a difference in diameter among rolling
elements involved, as well as roundness on the
raceway surfaces of inner ring and outer ring), causing
the trajectory of plotting with running accuracies to vary
with each revolution.

The run-out of an element not in synchronization with

the revolutions of bearing is known as N.R.R.O. (NonRepetitive Run-Out) and is equivalent to the amplitude
in the Lissajous figure illustrated in Fig. 2.3.
The effect of N.R.R.O. on a rolling bearing onto the
accuracies is illustrated in Fig. 2.4 by taking a main
spindle of turning machine as an example.
This diagram illustrates a machining process where
the outside surface of a work piece mounted to the
main spindle is shaved by a turning operation. If the
outside surface is cut with a new trajectory with every
revolution, the outside shape of work piece will be
distorted. Furthermore, if the accuracies of shaft and
housing are not high enough or bearings are
assembled onto the shaft and/or housing improperly,
the bearing ring can be deformed, possibly leading to a
run-out that is not in synchronization with the
revolutions of bearing.

1st revolution
2nd revolution
3rd revolution

Revolution-synchronized
vibration only

Non-revolution-synchronized
vibration only

Fig. 2.2

Cutting tool

Distortion of work
piece shape

Fig. 2.4 Model of cutting operation

Non-repetitive
run-out

Fig. 2.3 Lissajous figure

Technical Data

Accuracies of shaft and housing

Depending on the fit of a bearing to a shaft and a
housing, the bearing internal clearance can vary. For
this reason, an adequate bearing fit has to be attained
so that the bearing can perform as designed. (Refer to
the recommended fit section.)
Also, the axial tightening torque on a bearing needs
to be considered. To avoid deformation of bearing
raceway surface owing to axial tightening of the
bearing, it is necessary to carefully determine the
dimensions of components associated with a tightening
force the magnitude of tightening force and the number
of tightening bolts.
The clearance on a tapered bore cylindrical roller
bearing is adjusted by changing the drive-up to the
taper. Because of this, the critical factors associated
with an appropriate fit of a bearing to a shaft and/or a
housing are the dimensional accuracies of the taper,
contact surface on the taper, and the squareness of the
end face of the inner ring relative to the shaft centerline
during the drive-up process.
Typical accuracy values for a spindle and housing are
summarized in Tables 2.7 and 2.8.

Typical accuracy for housing

Table 2.8 Form accuracy of housing

t3 AB

t3
Da

Db

t
t1 AB

t
t1 AB
t4

Accuracy
Deviation from
circular form

AB

Symbol

Tolerance3

Angularity

Fundamental permissible tolerance IT

P5

P4

P2

IT3
2

IT2
2

IT1
2

t1

IT3
2

IT2
2

IT1
2

Typical accuracy for spindle

Table 2.7 Form accuracy of spindle 1
t
t1

da

db
2

t4 A

t3 AB
t2 AB

Accuracy

Symbol

Tolerance3

t3

IT3

IT3

IT2

Eccent
ricity

t4

IT5

IT4

IT3

1 The form tolerance, symbol and reference face of the housing are in
accordance with ISO R1101.
2 The length of the bearing fit surface is often too small to measure
concentricity. Therefore, this criterion applies only when the fit surface has
a width sufficient as a reference face.
3 Housing bore diameters Da and Db are the reference dimensions used
when the tolerance for permissible form accuracy are determined.
For example, when a JIS class 5 bearing is used for a housing with a
50 mm inside bore, the tolerance of roundness is t = IT3/2 = 5/2 = 2.5m.

AB

Run out

Fundamental permissible tolerance IT

P5

P4

P2

IT3
2

IT2
2

IT0 4
2

IT2
2

IT0
2

IT3
2

IT2
2

Fundamental tolerance IT
Table 2.9 Fundamental tolerance IT

Deviation from
circular form

t1

IT3
2

Angularity
t2

Run out

t3

IT3

IT3

IT2

Eccent
ricity

t4

IT5

IT4

IT3

1 The form tolerance, symbol, and reference face of spindle are in

accordance with ISO R1101.
2 The length of the bearing fit surface is often too small to measure
concentricity. Therefore, this criterion applies only when the fit surface has
a width sufficient as a reference face.
3 When determining a tolerance for permissible form accuracy, the
reference dimensions used are shaft diameters da and db.
For example, when using a JIS class 5 bearing for a dia. 50 mm shaft, the
tolerance of roundness is t = IT3/2 = 4/2=2 m.
4 IT0 is preferred if the diameter tolerance of the bearing fit surface is IT3.

10

Classification of nominal
dimension mm

Fundamental tolerance IT value m

over

incl.

IT0

IT1

IT2

IT3

IT4

6
10
18

10
18
30

0.6
0.8
1

1
1.2
1.5

1.5
2
2.5

2.5
3
4

4
5
6

30
50
80

50
80
120

1
1.2
1.5

1.5
2
2.5

2.5
3
4

4
5

7
8

120
180
250

180
250
315

2
3
4

3.5
4.5
6

5
7
8

6
8
10
12

10
12
14
16

315
400

400
500

5
6

7
8

9
10

13
15

18
20

Technical Data

Bearings rigidity
The rigidity of a bearing built into a spindle directly
affects the rigidity of the spindle.
In particular, a high degree of rigidity is required of
the main spindle of a machine tool to ensure adequate
productivity and accurate finish of workpieces.
Bearing rigidity is governed by factors such as
the following:
(1) Types of rolling elements
(2) Size and quantity of rolling elements
(3) Material of rolling elements
(4) Bearing contact angle
(5) Preload on bearing

60

Axial displacement (m)

The rigidity of the main spindle of a machine tool is

associated with both bearing rigidity and shaft rigidity.
Bearing rigidity is typically governed by the elastic
deformation between the rolling elements and raceway
surface under load. Usually, bearings are preloaded in
order to increase the rigidity.
Under same loading conditions, a roller bearing has a
higher rigidity than a ball bearing of the same size.
However, having sliding portions, a roller bearing is
disadvantageous in supporting a high-speed shaft.
Shaft rigidity is greater with a larger shaft diameter.
However, the supporting bearing must have a sufficient
size and its dmn value (pitch center diameter across
rolling elements dm [mm] multiplied by speed [min-1])
must be accordingly greater. Of course, a larger
bearing is disadvantageous for high-speed applications.
To sum up, the rigidity required of the shaft
arrangement must be considered before the bearing
rigidity (bearing type and preload) and shaft rigidity are
determined.

To achieve both "high speed" and "high rigidity", each

type of the NTN angular contact ball bearing for a
machine tool is manufactured according to optimized
specifications for interior structure.

2LA-HSE020C
50

7020UC

40
30
20
10
0
0

Axial load (N)

Fig. 2.5

Material of rolling element (ceramic and steel)

Certain NTN bearings incorporate ceramic rolling
elements. As Young's modulus of silicon nitride (315
GPa) is greater than that of bearing steel (210 GPa),
the rigidity with this type of bearing is accordingly
greater.
25

Bearing steel ball

Axial displacement (m)

Bearings and rigidity

20

Ceramic ball

15
10
5
0
0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

Axial load (N)

Type of rolling elements (roller or ball)

Size and number of rolling elements

The size and number of rolling elements of a bearing
are determined based on the targeted performance of
the bearing.
Larger rolling elements lead to a greater bearing
rigidity. However, a bearing having larger rolling
elements tends to be affected by gyratory sliding
centrifugal force, and, as a result, its high-speed
performance will be degraded. Incidentally, a greater
number of rolling elements helps increase bearing
rigidity, but at the same time creates an increased
number of heat generation sources, possibly leading to
greater temperature rise.
For this reason, smaller size of rolling elements are
used for high-speed applications.

Fig. 2.6

Bearing contact angle

A smaller contact angle on an angular contact ball
bearing results in greater radial rigidity. When used as a
thrust bearing, this type of bearing should have a
greater contact angle to enable greater axial rigidity.
60

Axial displacement (m)

The surface contact pattern of the rolling element and

raceway is line contact with a roller bearing, while a ball
bearing is point contact. As a result, the dynamic
deformation of a bearing relative to a given load is
smaller with a roller bearing.

2LA-HSE020CDB/GL=15
2LA-HSE020DB/GL=20
2LA-HSE020ADDB/GL=25

50
40
30
20
10
0

Axial load (N)

Fig. 2.7

11

Technical Data

Preload on bearing

Preloading technique and preload

A greater preload on a given bearing results in

greater rigidity (Fig. 2.8). However, too great of a
preload on a bearing can lead to overheating, seizure,
and/or premature wear of the bearing. It is possible to
use bearings in three- or four-row configurations in
order to achieve increased axial rigidity (Fig. 2.9).

Bearing preloading techniques can be categorized as

definite position preloading and constant pressure
preloading (Fig. 2.10).
Definite position preloading is useful in enhancing the
rigidity of a bearing unit, as the positional relationship
across individual bearings can be maintained. On the
other hand, as preloading is achieved with spring force,
the constant pressure preloading technique can maintain a
preload constant even when the bearing-to-bearing
distance varies due to heat generation on the spindle or a
change in load.
The basic preload for a duplex bearing is given in the
relevant section for each bearing.
If an angular contact ball bearing is to be used for a
high-speed application, such as for the main spindle of a
machine tool, determine the optimal preload by
considering the increase in contact surface pressure
between rolling elements and the raceway surface that
results from gyratory sliding and centrifugal force. When
considering such an application, consult NTN Engineering.

Axial displacement (m)

60
2LA-HSE020DB/GL

50

2LA-HSE020DB/GN
2LA-HSE020DB/GM

40
30
20
10
0

Axial load (kN)

Fig. 2.8

Definite position preloading

Axial displacement (m)

60

2LA-HSE020DB/GL
2LA-HSE020DBT/GL
2LA-HSE020DTBT/GL

50
40
30
20

Constant pressure preloading

10
0
0

Axial load (kN)

Fig. 2.9
Fig. 2.10

Preload and rigidity

Outer ring
Ball
Inner ring

Bearing@ Bearing!
Fa
Fo

Fo

(1) Free from

preloading
o
(2) Under
preloading

!decreases.
bya, while the displacement on bearing!
At this point, the loads on bearings!and!
!are
!, respectively. When compared with b (the
F!and F!
displacement occurring when an axial load Fa is exerted
onto a non-preloaded bearing!), displacementa is
small. Thus, a preloaded bearing has higher rigidity.

o o

Fo

Inner ring axial

o displacement
Fo : preload
Inner ring axial
a displacement

a
F2

Axial load

The effect of preloading for an increase in bearing

rigidity is summarized in Fig. 2.11.
When the inner rings in the diagram are tightened to
bring them together, bearings!and!
!are each axially
displaced by dimensiono, thereby attaining a preload
Fo. In this situation, if an axial load Fa is further exerted
from outside, the displacement on bearing!increases

Bearing@

b
Fa

F1=F2+Fa

(3) Under preloading

with axial load applied

F2
1
o

Fig. 2.11 Preload graph

F1

Fa

Fo

12

Bearing!
a

2
o

Axial
displacement

Technical Data

Gyratory sliding
Every rolling element
M
(ball) in an angular contact
A
ball bearing revolves on
the axis of rotation A-A' as
illustrated in Fig. 2.12. A
revolving object tends to
A'
M
force the axis of rotation to
a vertical or horizontal
Fig. 2.12 Gyratory sliding
attitude. As a result, the
rolling element develops a
force to alter the orientation of the axis of rotation. This
force is known as a gyratory moment (M).
When the force due to the gyratory moment is greater
than the resistance force (rolling element load multiplied
by the coefficient of friction between the raceway and
rolling element) , gyratory sliding occurs on the raceway
surface. This leads to heat generation, wear and
seizure. Therefore, it is necessary to provide a sufficient
resistance force to inhibit gyratory sliding. NTN's
recommended preload is based on this theory.
The gyratory moment that will occur can be
calculated by the formula below.
Mkbcsin
1
k
mdw2
10
0.45dw5
Mdw5n2sin

M Gyratory moment
b Autorotation angular velocity of
rolling element

According to J. H. Rumbarger and J. D. Dunfee,

when the amount of spin sliding exceeds 4.20106
(N/m m2-mm/s), increase of heat generation and wear
start.
Generally, it is necessary for a bearing of a highspeed main spindle to have a preload that can prevent
spin sliding.
The example of wear on a bearing owing to spin
sliding is given in Fig. 2.14.
The magnitude of spin-derived wear is governed by a
PV value (amount of spin sliding) during operation of
the main spindle. Therefore, the optimum bearing for
main spindle must be selected. Though the possibility
of spin-derived wear occurrence varies depending on
the bearing type, model number and specifications, we
carefully determined a control transfer point in an
operating arrangement for NTN angular contract ball
bearings for main spindles of machine tools. Thus, we
believe that the amount of spin sliding with this bearing
category is not very large.
Additionally, the magnitude of spin-derived wear is
significantly affected by how well the raceway surface is
lubricated. Regardless of the type of sliding, even minor
sliding can lead to wear if oil film is not formed well. For
this reason, a reliable lubrication arrangement needs to
be incorporated.

c Angular velocity of revolution

m Mass of rolling element

Density of rolling element

dw Diameter of rolling element
Angle of axis of rotation of rolling
element

n Speed of inner ring

The form of wear on the bearing raceway derived

from spin sliding appears as
. The wear on the
raceway surface on inner ring that resulted from spin
sliding is given below.
Rolling contact area

Spin sliding
Every rolling element (ball)
in an angular contact ball
bearing develops spin sliding
that is unavoidable owing to
the structure of the bearing,
relative to the raceway
surface of either the inner
ring or outer ring (Fig. 2.13).
Fig. 2.13 Spin sliding
Usually, at a lower speed
range, pure rolling motion
occurs between an inner ring raceway and rolling
elements and spin sliding develops between an outer
ring raceway and rolling elements (this state is known
as inner ring control). At a higher speed range, pure
rolling motion occurs between an outer ring raceway
and rolling elements and spin sliding develops between
an inner ring raceway and rolling elements (this state is
known as outer ring control). A point where transfer
from inner ring control to outer ring control occurs is
known as control transfer point. An amount of spin
sliding and control transfer point can vary depending on
the bearing type and bearing data. Generally, the
amount of spin sliding will be greater with an outer ring
control state.

2.5m

Possible causes for

Bearing: 7026T1
Thrust load: 2 kN
Speed: 5000 min-1
Lubrication: Grease
Run time: 50 h

type wear

(1) Contact ellipse and

direction of spin sliding

(2) Sliding velocity (V)

(3) Bearing pressure within

ellipse (P)

(4) PV value owing to spin

PV

max

(5) Wear on raceway surface

2.14 Mechanism of wear on bearing owing to spin

sliding

13

Technical Data

Designing shaft and housing

Bearing corner radius dimensions

Bore diameter face rs min or r1s min

of bearing or outer
rs max or r1s max
diameter face of
bearing
(Axial direction)

rs min or r s min

rs min or
r s min

(Radial direction)

In designing a bearing and housing, it is very

important to provide a sufficient shoulder height for the
bearing and housing so as to maintain bearing and
housing accuracies and to avoid interference with the
bearing related corner radius.
The chamfer dimensions are shown in Table 2.10
and the recommended shoulder height and corner radii
on the shaft and housing are listed in Table 2.11.

rs max or r s max

Side face of inner

ring or center
washer, or side face
of outer ring

Fig. 2.15
Table 2.10 Allowable critical-value of bearing chamfer
(1) Radial bearings (Except tapered roller bearings)

(2) Metric tapered roller bearings

Unit mm

rs min1
or
r1s min
0.05

Nominal
bore diameter
d
over
incl.

rs max or r1s max

Radial
direction

Axial
direction

0.1

0.2

0.08

0.16

0.3

0.1

0.2

0.4

0.15

0.3

0.6

0.2

0.5

0.8

0.3

1.5

2.1

over

0.3
40

0.6
40

incl.

Radial
direction

Axial
direction

40

0.7

1.4

0.9

1.6

1.1

1.7

1.3

1.6

40

50

rs max or r1s max

Radial and
axial direcition
0.1

0.08

0.16

0.1

0.2

2.5

0.15

0.3

0.2

0.5

2.3

0.3

0.8

120

250

2.8

3.5

0.6

1.5

250

3.5

4
2.2

1.5

120

2.8

1.9

120

250

3.5

4.5

1.1

2.7

120

3.5

250

1.5

3.5

120

2.5

120

2.3

2.1

4.5

120

5.5

6.5

80

40

40

50

80
220

0.6

0.8

1.3

50

1.5

120

3.5

120

250

5.5

250

4.5

4.5

120

5.5

3.5

120

250

4.5

6.5

400

10

7.5

12.5

9.5

15

2.5

220

3.8

250

280

6.5

400

5.5

7.5

280

4.5

120

100

3.8

120

250

5.5

7.5

100

280

4.5

250

400

280

400

6.5

8.5

280

180

6.5

180

7.5

180

7.5

10

180

11

280

5.5

6.5

10

13

7.5

12.5

17

9.5

6
10

15

19

12

18

24

15

21

30

19

25

38

1 These are the allowable minimum dimensions of the

chamfer dimension "r" or "r1" and are described in the
dimensional table.

14

rs min
or
r1 min4
0.05

4
2.5

Unit mm

1.9

r1s min

rs max or r1s max

50
1.1

or

Nominal bore3
diameter of bearing
"d" or nominal
outside diameter "D"

120

40
1

rs min2

40
0.6

(3) Thrust bearings

Unit mm

2 These are the allowable minimum dimensions of the

chamfer dimension "r" or "r1" and are described in the
dimensional table.
3 Inner rings shall be in accordance with the division of "d"
and outer rings with that of "D".
Note: This standard will be applied to bearings whose
dimensional series (refer to the dimensional table) are
specified in the standard of ISO 355 or JIS B 1512.
For further information concerning bearings outside of
these standards or tapered roller bearings using US
customary units, please contact NTN Engineering.

12

18

15

21

19

25

4 These are the allowable

minimum dimensions of the
chamfer dimension "r" or "r1"
and are described in the
dimensional table.

Technical Data

Abutment height and fillet radius

The shaft and housing abutment height (h) should be
larger than the bearing's maximum allowable chamfer
dimensions (rs max), and the abutment should be
designed so that it directly contacts the flat part of the
bearing end face. The fillet radius (ra) must be smaller
than the bearing's minimum allowable chamfer
dimension (rs min) so that it does not interfere with
bearing seating. Table 2.11 lists abutment height (h)
and fillet radius (ra).
For bearings that support very large axial loads, shaft
abutments (h) should be higher than the values in the
table.

Where a fillet radius (ra max) larger than the bearing

chamfer dimension is required to strengthen the shaft
or to relieve stress concentration (Fig. 2.16a), or where
the shaft abutment height is too low to afford adequate
contact surface with the bearing (Fig. 2.16b), spacers
may be used effectively.
Relief dimensions for ground shaft and housing fitting
surfaces are given in Table 2.12.

ra max

rs min

ra

rs min

rs min

rs min

Fig. 2.16 Bearing mounting with spacer

h

ra

rs min
rs min

Table 2.11 Fillet radius and abutment height

rs min

Unit mm
rs min

ras max

0.05
0.08
0.1
0.15
0.2
0.3
0.6
1
1.1
1.5
2
2.1
2.5
3
4
5
6
7.5
9.5
12
15
19

0.05
0.08
0.1
0.15
0.2
0.3
0.6
1
1
1.5
2
2
2
2.5
3
4
5
6
8
10
12
15

h (min)

rc

Normal use1
0.3
0.3
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.25
2.25
2.75
3.5
4.25
5
6
6
7
9
11
14
18
22
27
32
42

rc
t

rs min
b

2.12 Relief dimensions for grounding

rs min
1
1.1
1.5
2
2.1
2.5
3
4
5
6
7.5

Relief dimensions
b
t
rc
2
2.4
3.2
4
4
4
4.7
5.9
7.4
8.6
10

0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.6
0.6
0.6

1.3
1.5
2
2.5
2.5
2.5
3
4
5
6
7

1 If bearing supports large axial load, the height of the

shoulder must exceed the value given here.
Note: ras max maximum allowable fillet radius.

15

Technical Data

3. Load Rating and Life

Bearing life
Even in bearings operating under normal conditions,
the surfaces of the raceway and rolling elements are
constantly being subjected to repeated compressive
stresses which causes flaking of these surfaces to
occur. This flaking is due to material fatigue and will
eventually cause the bearings to fail. The effective life
of a bearing is usually defined in terms of the total
number of revolutions a bearing can undergo before
flaking of either the raceway surface or the rolling
element surfaces occurs.
Other causes of bearing failure are often attributed to
problems such as seizure, abrasions, cracking,
chipping, scuffing, rust, etc. However, these so called
"causes" of bearing failure are usually caused by
improper installation, insufficient or improper lubrication,
faulty sealing or improper bearing selection. Since the
above mentioned "causes" of bearing failure can be
avoided by taking the proper precautions, and are not
simply caused by material fatigue, they are considered
separately from the flaking aspect.
Usually, the load exerted on the main spindle of a
machine tool is relatively small compared to the
dynamic rated load on the bearing. Therefore, the
fatigue life of a bearing seldom poses a problem.
The following operating conditions, rather than a
bearing's rating life, can significantly affect the bearing
functions (running accuracy, rigidity, heat generation,
etc.) and require special consideration.
(1) High speed operation.
(2) Heavy preload.
(3) Large bending of the shaft.
(4) Large temperature difference between the
inner and outer rings.
For further information, please consult NTN
Engineering.

Basic rating life and basic dynamic load rating

A group of seemingly identical bearings when
subjected to identical load and operating conditions will
exhibit a wide diversity in their durability.
This "life" disparity can be accounted for by the
difference in the fatigue of the bearing material itself.
This disparity is considered statistically when
calculating bearing life, and the basic rating life is
defined as follows.
The basic rating life is based on a 90% statistical
model which is expressed as the total number of
revolutions 90% of the bearings in an identical group of
bearings subjected to identical operating conditions will
attain or surpass before flaking due to material fatigue
16

occurs. For bearings operating at fixed constant

speeds, the basic rating life (90% reliability) is
expressed in the total number of hours of operation.
Basic dynamic load rating expresses a rolling
bearing's capacity to support a dynamic load. The basic
dynamic load rating is the load under which the basic
rating life of the bearing is 1 million revolutions. This is
expressed as pure radial load for radial bearings and
pure axial load for thrust bearings. These are referred
to as "basic dynamic load rating (Cr)" and "basic
dynamic axial load rating (Ca)." The basic dynamic load
ratings given in the bearing tables of this catalog are for
bearings constructed of NTN standard bearing
materials, using standard manufacturing techniques.
The relationship between the basic rating life, the
basic dynamic load rating and the bearing load is given
in the formula below.
C 3
3.1
For ball bearings: L10 P

L10h

106

60n

C
For roller bearings: L10 P

L10h

106

60n

C
P

3.2
3

10/3

C
P

3.3

10/3

3.4

where,
L10 : Basic rating life, 106 revolutions
L10h : Basic rating life, h
C : Basic dynamic load rating, N {kgf}
(Cr: radial bearings, Ca: thrust bearings)
P : Equivalent dynamic load, N {kgf}
(Pr: radial bearings, Pa: thrust bearings)
-1
n : Rotational speed, min
When several bearings are incorporated in machines
or equipment as complete units, all the bearings in the
unit are considered as a whole when computing bearing
life (see formula 3.5).
1
3.5
L
1e
1e
1e 1/e
L L Ln
2
1
where,
L : Total basic rating life of entire unit, h
L1 , L2 Ln : Basic rating life of individual bearings, 1, 2,
n, h
e = 10/9..........For ball bearings
e = 9/8............For roller bearings
When the load conditions vary at regular intervals, the
life can be given by formula (3.6).
1 2
j -1

3.6
Lm
L2
Lj
L1

Technical Data

where,
L m : Total life of bearing
j : Frequency of individual load conditions
( j = 1)
L j : Life under individual conditions

Adjusted rating life

The basic bearing rating life (90% reliability factor)
can be calculated by the formula (3.2) mentioned.
However, in some applications a bearing life factor of
over 90% reliability may be required. To meet these
requirements, bearing life can be lengthened by the use
of specially improved bearing materials or
manufacturing process. Bearing life is also sometimes
affected by operating conditions such as lubrication,
temperature and rotational speed.
Basic rating life adjusted to compensate for this is
called "adjusted rating life," and is determined by using
the formula (3.7).
Lna a1a2a3L103.7
where,
Lna : Adjusted rating life in millions of revolutions
(106)
a1 : Reliability factor
a2 : Bearing characteristics factor
a3 : Operating conditions factor
Life adjustment factor for reliability a1
The value of reliability factor a1 is provided in Table
3.1 for reliability of 90% or greater.
Table 3.1 Reliability factor a1
Reliability %
90
95
96
97
98
99

Ln

Reliability factor a1

L10
L5
L4
L3
L2
L1

1.00
0.62
0.53
0.44
0.33
0.21

Life adjustment factor for material a2

Bearing characteristics concerning life vary according
to bearing material, quality of material and use of
special manufacturing processes. In this case, life is
adjusted by the bearing characteristics factor a2.
The basic dynamic load ratings listed in the catalog
are based on NTN's standard material and process,
therefore, the adjustment factor a2 1. a21 may be
used for specially enhanced materials and
manufacturing methods. If this applies, consult NTN
Engineering.
Life adjustment factor for operating conditions a3
Operating conditions factor a3 is used to compensate
for when the lubrication condition worsens due to rise in
temperature or rotational speed, lubricant deteriorates,
or becomes contaminated with foreign matters.
Generally speaking, when lubricating conditions are
satisfactory, the a3 factor has a value of one. And when
lubricating conditions are exceptionally favorable and all
other operating conditions are normal, a3 can have a
value greater than one. a3 is however less than 1 in the
following cases:
Dynamic viscosity of lubricating oil is too low for
bearing operating temperature
2
2
(13 mm /s or less for ball bearings, 20 mm /s for
roller bearings)
Rotational speed is particularly low
-1
(If multiplication of rotational speed n min and
rolling element pitch diameter Dpw mm is Dpwn
10,000)
Bearing operating temperature is too high
Lubricant is contaminated with foreign matter or
moisture

17

Technical Data

New bearing life formula

By dramatic improvement in bearing materials and
bearing manufacturing techniques, bearings can offer a
life several times as long as that calculated from the
formula (3.7) as long as they are mounted with minimal
mounting errors are fully free from foreign matter and
adequately lubricated. This finding was obtained by a
series of experiments performed by NTN. NTN's new
bearing life calculation theory is based on a fatigue limit
theory according to which under clean and efficient
lubrication conditions, bearing life can be indefinite at a
particular contact surface pressure. For this purpose,
NTN performs calculations based on the contact
surface pressure at a fatigue limit of 1.5 GPa that is
defined in ISO281: 1990/Amd2: 2000. Incidentally, if
foreign matter enters into a bearing, depending on the
size and amount of foreign matter, the actual life of that
bearing can be much shorter than the rating life that is
calculated by formula (3.7). Also, poor lubricating
conditions can cause the actual bearing life to be
shorter than the rating life. NTN's new bearing life
calculation is designed to determine a new life
correction factor aNTN by the following formula.
C
Lnma1aNTN
P

3.8
p

Bearing life theory

(1) Conventional Lundberg-Palmgren (L-P) theory
According to this theory, a stress that governs rolling
fatigue is considered, that is, a maximum dynamic
shear stress o that is exerted, at a depth of Zo from the
rolling contact surface, in a plane parallel with the
rolling contact surface. Referring to a theory of Neuber,
et. al. which claims that the durability of a material
deteriorates as the volume being subjected to a stress
application decreases, the L-P theory assumes that a
fissure occurring at a weak point of material at around
the depth Zo reaches the surface and leads to develop
flaking. The probability of survival S of a volume V that is
subjected to N times of stress application is determined
by the formula below according to the Weibull theory.
1
N e0V
Rn 3.9
S
z h0
c

where,
S Probability of survival of stress volume V
N Number of repeated stress applications
e Weibull slope (index to represent variation in life)
o Maximum shear stress
Zo Depth from surface at which maximum shear
stress occurs
ch Indexes

From the basic formula for the bearing life relative to

rolling fatigue (3.9), a generic life formula below is
obtained:

18

3.10

C
L10
P

where,
L10 Basic rating life
C Basic dynamic load rating
P Dynamic equivalent load
p
ch23e (point contact)
ch12e (line contact)
2a
Z0

Fig. 3.1 Stress volume resulting from rolling contact

according to L-P theory

(2) NTN's new bearing life theory

While the L-P theory intends to define internally
occurring flaking owing to the shear stress within a
material that results from hertzian contact, NTN's new
bearing life theory is designed not only to evaluate
surface-initiated flaking but also to determine life of
each small segment (L1) based on a local stress (1).
This is done by dividing an area from the interior to the
contact surface of the material into small segments as
illustrated in Fig. 3.2, and finally obtaining the overall
bearing life L by the formula (3.13).
1

e c
N iiVi
z hi

Rn 3.11
Si

LiNi
-icV -1i z hi 1/e 3.12

L Li-e
i=1

-1/e

3.13

where,
Si probability of survival of stress volumeVi of
divided segment
L Overall bearing life
Zi Depth of divided small stress volumeVi
from the surface
n Number of segments
u Fatigue limit stress
A stress below which a bearing does not develop
failure (flaking) under ideal lubrication conditions.
ISO 281: 1990/Amd2: 2000 specifies 1.5 GPa as
a the maximum contact surface pressure at a
fatigue limit. NTN uses it as a Von Misses stress
equivalent to the maximum contact surface
pressure 1.5 GPa.
When i is smaller than u (fatigue limit), the
life of a region in question (L1) will be infinitely
long.

Technical Data

(2) Effect of foreign matter

The effect of foreign matter is treated as surfaceinitiated flaking that starts from a dent resulting from
trapped foreign matter. NTN performs a bearing life
calculation, assuming that the size of foreign matter and
the stress concentration area in the middle portion (the
size of this area corresponds with that of the foreign
matter) in the surface layer as well as the amount of
foreign matter significantly affect the bearing life.

Pmax
y

Fig. 3.2 Calculation model

Dented raceway

NTN's new bearing life formula

Normal raceway

The correlation between the NTN's life correction

factor aNTN and corrected rating life Lnm is defined by the
formula (3.14) below.
C
Lnma1aNTN
P

3.14

Fig. 3.4 Contact surface pressure distribution resulting

from dent

where,
Lnm Corrected rating life
a1 Reliability coefficient
aNTN Life correction factor that reflects material
properties, fatigue limit stress, contamination
with foreign matter and oil film parameter
() (0.1 aNTN50)
C Basic dynamic load rating
P Dynamic equivalent load
p Index 3 (ball bearing) 10/3 (roller bearing)

(3) Effect of oil film parameter ()

The oil film parameter can be used to calculate
bearing life. The oil film parameter, designated by, is
the ratio of the oil film thickness to the roughness of the
surface. It can be used to calculate the average stress
across the surface layer of two contacting surfaces,
such as a rolling element and raceway. From this
surface layer stress, the contact surface pressure can
be determined. Bearing life is then calculated from the
contact surface pressure.

Contact stress

(1) Effect of fatigue limit

NTN's new bearing life formula introduces a concept
of fatigue life according to which the bearing life is
infinitely long at a particular contact surface pressure as
illustrated in Fig. 3.3 assuming no foreign matter is
trapped in the bearing and the bearing is reliably
lubricated.

Contact surface pressure

equivalent to fatigue limit

Conditions of two objects on surface layer

Calculation model
Object having
composite roughness
of two objects
Smooth surface

Oil film
Life reflecting fatigue limit

Fig. 3.5 Model of stress load onto the surface layer

Rating
life

New life calculation formula chart

Various statuses of contamination with foreign matter
are defined in Table 3.2. The values of ISO codes and
NAS classes are those for ball bearings that are
subjected to more severe operating conditions.

Life

Fig. 3.3 Basic concept of fatigue limit

Table 3.2 Status of contamination
Condition of contamination Extremely clean
Contamination coefficient

Clean

Normal

Lightly
contaminated

Moderately
contaminated

Highly
contaminated

Severely
contaminated

0.8

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

Ingress of
much dust

Filtered

No filter

Guideline for application

ISO cleanliness code
(ISO 4406)
NAS class

Less than 10 m

1030m

3050m

5070m

70100m

100 m or
more

13/10

15/12

17/14

19/16

21/18

23/20

25/22

10

12

19

Technical Data

(1) Effect of foreign matter on correlation between load

(P/C) and life correction factor aNTN

Basic static load rating

100
50

Normal

When stationary rolling bearings are subjected to

static loads, they suffer from partial permanent
deformation of the contact surfaces at the contact point
between the rolling elements and the raceway. The
amount of deformity increases as the load increases,
and if this increase in load exceeds certain limits, the
subsequent smooth operation of the bearings is
impaired.
It has been found through experience that a
permanent deformity of 0.0001 times the diameter of
the rolling element, occurring at the most heavily
stressed contact point between the raceway and the
rolling elements, can be tolerated without any
impairment in running efficiency.
The basic static load rating refers to a fixed static load
limit at which a specified amount of permanent
deformation occurs. It applies to pure radial loads for
radial bearings and to pure axial loads for thrust
bearings. The maximum applied load values for
contact stress occurring at the rolling element and
raceway contact points are given below.

Extremely clean

15

10 Lightly contaminated
Clean
Moderately contaminated

aNTN

1.9

1
0.5

Highly contaminated
Severely contaminated

0.1

0.01
0.01

0.1

P/C
Fig. 3.6 Correlation between P/C and aNTN
(effect of foreign matter in ball bearing)
100
50
35

Extremely clean
Clean
Normal

16

10
Lightly contaminated
Moderately contaminated

aNTN

2.5
1.3 Highly contaminated

0.1

Severely
contaminated

0.01
0.1

P/C
Fig. 3.7 Correlation between P/C and aNTN
(effect of foreign matter in roller bearing)

(2) Effect of oil film parameter () on correlation

between load (P/C) and life correction factor aNTN
100
50

=1.5

10

aNTN

5.4

=0.5

0.1

=0.1

0.1

P/C
Fig. 3.8 Correlation between P/C and aNTN
(effect ofwith ball bearing)
100
50

=3

10

=2
=1.5
=1

aNTN

5.4

=0.5

1
0.6

0.1

=0.1

0.01
0.1

Referred to as "basic static radial load rating" for

radial bearings and "basic static axial load rating" for
thrust bearings, basic static load rating is expressed as
Cor or Coa respectively and is provided in the bearing
dimensions table.

Allowable static equivalent load

1
0.6

For ball bearings

4 200MPa428kgf/mm2
For self-aligning ball bearings 4 600MPa469kgf/mm2
For roller bearings
4 000MPa408kgf/mm2

=3

=2

=1

0.01
0.01

P/C

Fig. 3.9 Correlation between P/C and aNTN

(effect ofwith roller bearing)

20

Static load rating and allowable axial load

Generally the static equivalent load which can be

permitted is limited by the basic static rating load as
stated above. However, depending on requirements
regarding friction and smooth operation, these limits
may be greater or lesser than the basic static rating
load.
This is generally determined by taking the safety
factor So given in Table 3.3 and formula (3.13) into
account.
So =CoPo3.13
where,
SoSafety factor
CoBasic static load rating, N {kgf}
radial bearings: Cor,
thrust bearings: Coa
PoStatic equivalent load, N {kgf}
radial bearings: Por,
thrust bearings: Poa

Technical Data

Table 3.3 Minimum safety factor values So

Operating conditions

Ball bearings Roller bearings

High rotational accuracy necessary

Normal rotating accuracy necessary (Universal application)

1.5

Slight rotational accuracy deterioration permitted

(Low speed, heavy loading, etc.)

0.5

Note: When vibration and/or shock loads are present, a load factor based on the
shock load needs to be included in the Po max value.

Allowable axial load

A greater axial load can be exerted on a main spindle
bearing on a machine tool allowing for tool changes
while the machine is stationary. When an angular
contact ball bearing is subjected to a larger axial load,
the contact ellipse between its rolling elements and
raceway surface can overflow the raceway surface
(Fig. 3.10). Furthermore, even if the contact ellipse
remains within the raceway surface, overstressing can
cause problems such as denting.
The maximum allowable load that does not cause
such problems is defined as the "allowable axial load."
The allowable axial load is reached when either of the
following conditions occurs.
The end of contact ellipse on the raceway
surface reaches the shoulder of either an inner
or outer ring.
The contact surface pressure on the raceway
surface reaches 3650 MPa in either the inner or
outer ring raceway.
Note that the contact surface pressure of 3650 MPa
on the raceway surface is a value that leads to a
permanent deformation of 0.00002 to 0.00005 times as
much as the rolling element diameter and has been
determined through many years of experience.
The allowable axial load for each bearing is found in
the associated dimensions table.

4. Allowable Speed

High bearing speed leads to high temperature rise on

the bearing owing to frictional heating within the
bearing. When the temperature of the bearing exceeds
a particular limit, the lubricant performance deteriorates
significantly, possibly leading to bearing overheating or
seizure.
The factors that can affect the maximum allowable
bearing speed include:
(1) Bearing type
(2) Bearing size
(3) Lubrication system (grease lubrication, air-oil
lubrication, jet lubrication, etc.)
(4) Internal clearance or preload on the bearing
(5) Bearing arrangement (2-row, 3-row, 4-row)
(6) Bearing load
(7) Accuracies of shaft, housing, etc.
The maximum allowable speeds listed in the bearing
dimensions tables are reference values and are applicable
only to individual bearings that are adequately lubricated
and correctly preloaded under a condition where the heat
is reliably removed from the bearing arrangement.
In the case of grease lubrication, these speeds are
attainable only when the bearing is filled with an
adequate amount of high-quality grease as given in
Table 7.3, the bearing is sufficiently run in, and heat is
removed by an arrangement such as a cooling jacket.
In the case of oil lubrication, these speeds are attained
only by an air-oil lubrication system if an adequate
amount of VG10 or 32 spindle oil is supplied and the
heat is removed by an arrangement such as a cooling
jacket. When using a large amount of lubricant, a jet
lubrication system excels in lubrication and cooling
performance, and can permit operation at the maximum
allowable speed. However, this lubrication system
involves a high power loss and should be employed
carefully.

Speed factor

Fa

H
2a

H Shoulder height of bearing

a Semimajor of contact ellipse
Fa Axial load

The maximum allowable speed of a particular bearing

can vary depending on the relation between heat
generation and heat dissipation in the bearing as well as
how well the bearing is lubricated. The bearing
arrangements (2-row to 4-row) and speed reduction ratios
(speed factors) for maximum allowable speed due to
post-assembly preloads are summarized in Table 4.1.
Table 4.1 Speed factor by bearing arrangement and preload
Bearing arrangement

Matching

GL

GN

GM

DB

0.85

0.8

0.65

DBT

0.7

0.6

0.5

DTBT

0.8

0.75

0.6

Fig. 3.10

21

Technical Data

5. Bearing Arrangements and Structures of

Bearings for Main Spindles
Bearing Arrangement for Main Spindles
Typical examples of bearing arrangements for main
spindles of machine tools are summarized in Table 5.1.
An optimal bearing arrangement must be determined
through considerations about the properties required of
the main spindle in question (maximum speed, radial
and axial rigidities, main spindle size, required

accuracies, lubrication system, etc.). Recently, an

increasing number of new machine tool models
incorporate built-in motor type main spindles. However,
heat generation on a built-in motor can affect the
accuracy of the main spindle and performance of
lubricant, so a main spindle bearing should be selected
very carefully.

Table 5.1 Typical examples of bearing arrangements for main spindles

Bearing arrangement for main spindle

Bearing type

Typical applications

[Type !]
Tapered roller bearing
+
Tapered roller bearing
+
Double-row cylindrical roller bearing

Large turning machine

Oil country lathe
General-purpose turning machine

[Type@]
Double-row cylindrical roller bearing
+
Double-direction angular contract
thrust ball bearing
+
Double-row cylindrical roller bearing

CNC turning machine

Machining center
Boring machine
Milling machine

Typical lubrication
Grease lubrication

Gear-driven configuration

Typical lubrication
Grease lubrication

Belt-driven configuration
[Type#]
Double-row cylindrical roller bearing
+
High-speed duplex angular contact
ball bearing for axial load
+
Single-row cylindrical roller bearing
Belt-driven configuration

CNC turning machine

Machining center
Milling machine
Typical lubrication
Grease lubrication

NOTE: high-speed variant of type@

[Type $]
Duplex angular contact ball bearing
(DBT arrangement)
+
Double-row cylindrical roller bearing
NOTE: high-speed variant of type@or #

CNC turning machine

Machining center
Milling machine
Typical lubrication
Grease lubrication

Belt-driven configuration
[Type %]
Double-row cylindrical roller bearing
+
High-speed duplex angular contact
ball bearing for axial load
+
Single-row cylindrical roller bearing
Built-in motor-driven configuration

22

NOTE: high-speed variant of type#with

built-in motor-driven configuration

CNC turning machine

Machining center
Milling machine
Typical lubrication
Grease lubrication
Air-oil lubrication

Technical Data

Bearing arrangement for main spindle

Bearing type
[Type ^]
Single-row cylindrical roller bearing
+
High-speed duplex angular contact
ball bearing for axial load
+
Single-row cylindrical roller bearing

Built-in motor-driven configuration

Typical lubrication
Grease lubrication
Air-oil lubrication

Machining center <vertical>

Typical lubrication
Grease lubrication
Air-oil lubrication

NOTE: super high-speed variant

[Type *]
Duplex angular contact ball bearing
(DTBT arrangement)
+
Duplex angular contact roller bearing
(w/ ball slide)

Built-in motor-driven configuration

CNC turning machine

Machining center

NOTE: high-speed variant of type %

[Type &]
Duplex angular contact ball bearing
(DTBT arrangement)
+
Single-row angular contact roller bearing
(w/ ball slide)

Built-in motor-driven configuration

Typical applications

Machining center <vertical>

Typical lubrication
Grease lubrication
Air-oil lubrication

NOTE: super high-speed variant

[Type (]
Duplex angular contact ball bearing
(DTBT arrangement)
+
Single-row cylindrical roller bearing

Machining center
Typical lubrication
Grease lubrication
Air-oil lubrication

NOTE: super high-speed variant

Built-in motor-driven configuration
[Type )]
Adjustable preload bearing unit
+
Duplex angular contact ball bearing
(DBT arrangement)
+
Single-row cylindrical roller bearing
Built-in motor-driven configuration

Machining center
Typical lubrication
Air-oil lubrication

NOTE: high-rigidity/super high-speed variant

[Type)!]
Duplex angular contact ball bearing
(DT arrangement)
+
Duplex angular contact ball bearing
(DT arrangement)

Machining center
Small turning machine
Grinding machine
Typical lubrication
Grease lubrication
Air-oil lubrication

Built-in motor-driven configuration

[Type )@]
Duplex angular contact ball bearing
(DT arrangement)
+
Duplex angular contact ball bearing
(DT arrangement)

Grinding machine
Typical lubrication
Grease lubrication
Air-oil lubrication
Oil-mist lubrication

Belt-driven configuration

23

Technical Data

Bearing selection based on bearing arrangement for main spindle

Select a set of bearing specifications applicable to
the selected arrangement type.
Choose a lubrication system suitable for the selected
bearing specifications.
Select a product group that satisfies the abovementioned considerations.

An optimal bearing product that best suits the

application is selected by referring to the bearing
selection table in Table 5.2, which contains the possible
bearing arrangements for main spindles.
Designate the free side and fixed side.
Select the bearing arrangement type (I to XII) on the
free or fixed side.
Table 5.2 Bearing selection table
Free side

Bearing
Lubrication
specifications system

Applicable product groups/ULTAGE

Steel balls/ceramic balls

Sealed

Fix side

Angular contact
ball bearing for
radial load

Grinding machine main spindle/

motor shaft series
15BNT9/5S-BNT9
BNT0/5S-BNT0
BNT2/5S-BNT2

Contact angle 30
Bearing arrangement or smaller
Bearing arrangement [Type &, *, )!,
[Type $&*( or )@]
)!or )@

Super high-speed/dedicated
air-oil lubrication series
255S-2LA-HSF0

Bearing arrangement
[Type@,#,% or ^]

Bearing arrangement
[Type!, @, #,$,
%, ^, (, or )]
Angular contact
ball bearing for
axial load
Contact angle less
than 60

Bearing arrangement
[Type !]

24

Cylindrical roller
bearing

Oil lubrication

Thrust contract
ball bearing
Tapered roller bearing
+
Cylindrical roller bearing

NN30/NN30K
NN30HS/NN30HSK
NN30HST6/NN30HST6K
NN30HSRT6/NN30HSRT6K
NN49/NN49K
NNU49/NNU49K
N10HS/N10HSK
N10HSRT6/N10HSRT6K
Eco-friendly type
N10HSLT6/N10HSLT6K
30HTA9A
HTA0A/5S-HTA0A

Grease lubrication

Cylindrical roller
bearing
+
Duplex angular
contact ball bearing

Grease lubrication

Double-row
cylindrical roller
bearing or single-row
cylindrical roller
Cylindrical roller
bearing
bearing

Double-row

Air-oil lubrication

Eco-friendly type
20, 25 5S-2LA-HSL9U
5S-2LA-HSL0
5S-2LA-HSFL0
With re-lubricating hole on the outer ring
20, 25 5S-2LA-HSEW9U
5S-2LA-HSEW0

Single-row

Single-row angular
contact ball bearing
or duplex angular
contact ball bearing
(w/ ball bush)

1578C, 72C
15, 25, 30
79U/5S-79U70U/5S-70U
15, 20, 25
2LA-HSE9U/5S-2LA-HSE9U
2LA-HSE0/5S-2LA-HSE0

Grease lubrication

Duplex angular
contact ball bearing
or adjustable preload
bearing mechanism
+
Duplex angular
contact ball bearing

15, 25
79 LLB/5S-79 LLB
70 LLB/5S-70 LLB
15, 20, 25
2LA-BNS9 LLB/5S-2LA-BNS9 LLB
2LA-BNS0 LLB/5S-2LA-BNS0 LLB

40HTA9U
HTA0U/5S-HTA0
605629/5629M
5620/5620M

329XU
4T-320X/320XU
Inch series tapered roller bearing

Considerations for
selection procedure
Bearing selection
High-speed performance
(general)
High Low
Contact angle 15, 20, 25, 30

Rigidity
Radial rigidity
High Low
Contact angle 15, 20, 25, 30
Axial rigidity
Low High
Contact angle 15, 20, 25, 30,
40, 60

Complex rigidity
(radial and axial)
High
(4-row)
Medium
(3-row)
Low
(2-row)
Recommended arrangement
4-row (DTBT) or 2-row (DB)
Recommended lubrication
specifications
Standard main spindle : Grease
High-speed main spindle : Air-oil
Low-noise : Grease or
eco-friendly air-oil
Presence of cooling jacket
around the bearing.
In particular, grease lubrication
is recommended.

Technical Data

Adjustable preload bearing unit

A recent trend in the machine tool industry is a steady
increase of operating speeds. The maximum dmn value
(pitch circle diameter across rolling elements dmmm
multiplied by speed nmin-1) reached by main
spindles with air-oil lubricated lubrication can be as high
as 2.5 to 3.8 106. At the same time, main spindles are
requiring increased rigidity. Therefore, main spindle
bearings must be capable of both high-speed operation
and high rigidity. This can be achieved through optimal
preloading.
A fixed preload (spring preload) system is usually
employed to satisfy both these high speed and high
rigidity requirements. A spindle unit with fixed-position
preload that is adjustable for different speed conditions
is advantageous for optimizing the rigidity of the unit.
The NTN Adjustable Preload Bearing Unit is a highspeed, high-rigidity unit that features fixed position

Angular contact ball bearing

with ceramic balls

Adjustable preload section

preload that can be adjusted for different speed

conditions.
The NTN Adjustable Preload Bearing Unit is
illustrated in Fig. 5.1. Hydraulic pressure is used to shift
the position of the adjustable preload sleeve situated in
the rear bearing section of the unit. This changes the
preload on the bearings.
A spindle incorporating a 3-step adjustable preload
bearing unit is illustrated in Fig. 5.2. The sleeve in the
adjustable preload section is comprised of two hydraulic
pressure chambers, A and B, as well as a spiral groove
for sliding motion. The preload can be adjusted to one
of three settings by changing the hydraulic pressure in
each of the chambers. To achieve instantaneous and
reliable adjustment, high-pressure oil (at the same
pressure as in the hydraulic chambers) is supplied to
the spiral groove on the outside of the sleeve. This oil
provides lubrication so that the sleeve can move
smoothly.

Hydraulic pressure chamber A Hydraulic pressure in spiral

Adjustable
groove (for sliding motion)
preload sleeve Hydraulic pressure chamber B
Adjustable
preload unit

Work piece
side

Drive
side
Locating side bearing

Preload adjustment side bearing

Angular contact ball

Main spindle bearing with ceramic
balls
Bearing box

Fig. 5.1 Adjustable preload bearing unit

Low speed range

(high preload)

Spiral groove

Hydraulic pressure ON

(Positive sign means clearance, while negative sign means preload.)

Medium speed range

(medium preload)

Hydraulic pressure ON

(Positive sign means clearance, while negative sign means preload.)

High speed range
(low preload)

Fig. 5.2 Typical spindle configuration incorporating

3-step Adjustable Preload Type Bearing Unit

Hydraulic pressure OFF

3 (Positive sign means clearance,

while negative sign means
preload.)

Operating mechanism
Fig. 5.3 shows the hydraulic operation of the unit for three
preloading conditions as well as the associated motion of the
adjustable preload sleeve.
Low speed operation(high preload): Chamber A is
pressurized.
Component moves to the right by a preset clearance L1
and contacts component . The axial clearance is 1.
Medium speed operation(medium preload):Chamber B
is pressurized.
Components and move to the right by a preset
clearance L2, causing Component to contact Component
. The axial clearance is2.
High speed operation(low preload):Chambers A and B
are not pressurized.
Components and return to the left due to the reaction
force on the bearing. This causes Component to contact
Component , thereby returning the axial clearance to the
initial setting of3.
NOTE: The return motion of the components and is achieved by
the reaction force of bearing or a separately provided spring.

L2232 L1231

Fig. 5.3 Operating mechanism of Adjustable preload

25

Technical Data

Bearing jacket cooling system

Considerations about cooling of jacket

With a built-in motor drive system, the main spindle is

directly driven by a motor and is therefore suitable for
rapid acceleration or deceleration. However, this
system can be adversely affected by temperature rise.
A cooling jacket with a spiral groove around the housing
allows cooling oil to flow through the unit.
If heat generated by the motor affects the bearing,
overheating of the bearing as well as degradation of the
grease can occur. This situation must be strictly
avoided. When designing a cooling system with jacket
cooling, the following should be considered.

IN

A typical bearing arrangement is shown in Fig. 5.4

and 5.5, comprising a double-row cylindrical roller
bearing and an angular contact ball bearing set. The
cooling groove on the jacket in Fig. 5.4 starts at around
an area above the angular contact ball bearings and
does not cool the double-row cylindrical roller bearing
effectively.
(Note that the fit of the angular contact ball bearings
with the bore of the housing is a clearance fit-the
bearings are not in direct contact with the housing) In
the configuration in Fig. 5.5, the cooling groove extends
to the region above the double-row cylindrical roller
bearing, and cools both the angular contact ball
bearings and the double-row cylindrical roller bearing
effectively.

OUT
Cooling groove
on jacket

IN

Fig. 5.4 Inadequate cooling groove on jacket

Fig. 5.5 Adequate cooling groove on jacket

Test conditions

Test conditions
Test bearing
Mounted radial clearance
Lubrication system

70

w/ jacket cooling
w/o jacket cooling

50
40
30
20
10
0
6000

10000

14000

Speed min

18000

22000

150

dmn value 104

Fig. 5.6 Variation in bearing temperature depending

on presence/absence of jacket cooling
(angular ball bearing)

NN3028HST7
-5m
Grease lubrication

70

w/ jacket cooling
w/o jacket cooling

60
50
40
30
20
10
0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

Speed min-1

-1

100

26

Temperature increase on outer ring C

Temperature increase on outer ring C

Test bearing
5S-2LA-HSE014DB
Preload after assembled 100N (Fixed position preloading)
Lubrication system Air-oil lubrication

60

OUT
Cooling groove
on jacket

25

50

75

dmn value 104

Fig. 5.7 Variation in bearing temperature depending

on presence/absence of jacket cooling
(cylindrical roller bearing)

Technical Data

6. Handling of Bearings

Cleaning and filling with grease

To achieve maximum speed and limited temperature
rise with a precision rolling bearing, it is vital to handle the
bearing correctly.
The handling of bearings involves cleaning, drying, filling
with grease (if necessary), and the running-in operation.
For each step, follow the precautions and instructions.
A sealed bearing contains prefilled grease. Do not clean
(rinse) and dry this type of bearing. Only wipe away rustpreventive oil with a clean cloth before assembling the
bearing.

Cleaning (removal of rust-preventive oil)

Immerse the bearing in kerosene or a highly volatile

solvent such as naphthesol and wash it by hand. Then
remove the kerosene using benzene or alcohol. Use
clean compressed air to blow away the rinsing fluid.
(The bearing may be used as delivered for the air-oil
lubrication. However, we recommend that after
cleaning, the bearing either be coated with the
lubricant to be used or a less viscous oil, or be
immersed in the lubricant or other low-viscosity oil.)

Drying
If the bearing is to be used with grease lubrication, it is
necessary to thoroughly dry the bearing to avoid leakage

of grease. After drying, be sure to immediately fill the

bearing with grease.
Drying can be performed by blowing hot air onto the
bearing or placing the bearing in a chamber at constant
temperature. When drying by hot air, be sure to consider
the cleanliness of the air.

Filling with grease

The procedures for greasing ball and roller bearings can
be found below.
After filling with grease, turn the bearing by hand to
uniformly distribute the grease to the whole rolling surface.
<Ball bearings> See Photo 6.1
By using an injector or small plastic bag, fill grease
between balls in equal amounts, aiming at the inner
ring rolling surface.
For a bearing with a ring-guided cage, also apply
grease to the guide surface of the cage using a spatula
or similar tool.
If grease cannot be filled into the inner ring rolling
surface because of a small gap between the cage and
the inner ring add grease to the outer ring rolling
surface. In this case, carefully turn the bearing so that
the grease is fully spread on the inner ring side.
<Roller bearings> See Photo 6.2
Apply grease to the outer (inner) side of rollers, and
while turning the rollers with fingers, spread the
grease to the inner ring (outer ring) side.

By using an injector or small

plastic bag, fill grease between
balls in equal amounts, aiming
at the rolling surface of the
inner ring.

Apply grease to the outer

circumference of cage.

After completion of filling

Apply grease to the outer side

of the rollers, and while turning
the rollers with fingers, spread
the grease to the inner ring
(outer ring) side.

Turn the bearing by hand while

applying an appropriate load in
the contact angle direction so
that the any area in the interior
of bearing is sufficiently
lubricated with grease.

(After applying grease)

If a lump of grease remains on
the outer face of cage rib, the
running-in operation can take a
longer time. With fingers,
spread the grease deposited on
the outer surface of the rib on
the cage.

Photo. 6.1 Filling grease into angular contact ball bearing

Photo. 6.2 Filling grease into cylindrical roller bearing

27

Technical Data

Running-in operation
(1) Air-oil or oil-mist lubrication
The running-in operation is relatively simple with oil
lubrication because no peak temperature occurs and
the bearing temperature stabilizes within a relatively
short time. NTN recommends that the speed of bearing
is to be increased in steps of 2000 to 3000 min-1 until
the maximum speed is reached.
Every speed setting should be maintained for about
30 minutes. However, for the speed range where the
dmn (pitch circle diameter across rolling elements
multiplied by speed) exceeds 1,000,000, increase the
bearing speed in steps of 1000 to 2000 min-1 to ensure
the stable running.
(2) Grease lubrication
For a grease-lubricated bearing, a running-in operation
is very important in attaining stable temperature rise.
During a running-in operation, a large temperature rise
(peak) occurs while the bearing speed is increased, and
then the bearing temperature eventually stabilizes.
Before temperature stabilization, a certain lead time will
be needed.
Ball bearing
NTN recommends that the bearing speed be
increased in steps of 1000 to 2000 min-1 and be further
increased only after the temperature has stabilized at
the current speed setting.
However, for the speed range where the dmn
exceeds 400,000, increase the bearing speed in steps
of 500 to 1000 min-1 to ensure the stable running.
Roller bearing
Compared with contact ball bearings, the time to peak
temperature or saturation in running-in operation of
roller bearings tends to be longer. Also, there will be
temperature rise due to whipping of the grease and the

Press-fitting jig

Fig. 6.1 Press-fitting pressure

Shaft rotation
Measurement of
concentricity of
outer ring

28

Mounting
When mounting a bearing to a main spindle, follow
either of the mounting techniques described below
(1) Press-fitting with hydraulic press
(2) Mounting by heating bearings
With either technique, it is important to minimize the
adverse effects of the mounting process to maintain
bearing accuracy.
(1) Press-fitting with hydraulic press
Before press-fitting a bearing with a hydraulic press
or hand press, the press-fitting force due to the
interference between the shaft and inner ring must be
calculated. A hydraulic press having a capacity greater
than the required press-fitting force must used. Next,
using an inner ring press-fitting jig, the inner ring is
correctly press-fitted to the shoulder of shaft. Please be
careful not to exert a force on the outer ring.
After the press-fitting operation, it is important to
measure the accuracies of various portions of the
bearing to verify that the bearing has been correctly
mounted to the shaft. When using a multi row bearings,
measure the runout after assembly and correct
misalignment across the outer rings as necessary.

Calculation of press-fitting force

Hydraulic press

Fig. 6.2 Checking for face

runout of inner ring

temperature rise may be unstable. To cope with this

problem, run the roller bearing in the maximum speed
range for a prolonged period.
Increase the bearing speed in steps of 500 to 1000
min-1 only after the bearing temperature has stabilized
at the current speed setting.
For the speed range where the dmn exceeds 300,000,
increase the bearing speed in steps of 500 min-1 to
ensure safety.

Fig. 6.3 Checking for

concentricity of outer ring

The press-fitting force occurring from the interference

between the shaft and inner ring can be determined by
the formula given below.
According to the calculated press-fitting force, a
hydraulic press having a sufficiently large capacity must
be used to mount the bearing. The variations in
dimensional errors among the bearings should be
considered. The force needed to press the inner ring to
the shaft can be obtained with the following formula
(6.1).
Force to press-fit inner ring to shaft
KdPdB6.1
where,
Kd : Force for press-fitting or extracting an inner ring N
P : Surface pressure on fitting surface MPa
(see Table 6.1)
d : Shaft diameter, inner ring bore diameter mm
D : Outer ring outside diameter mm
B : Inner ring width
: Sliding friction coefficient (when press-fitting
inner ring over cylindrical shaft: 0.12)

Technical Data

MPa
Kgf
mm2

1dod deff : Effective

E deff 1doDi
interference
2
2
d
1doDi
E : Modulus of
6.3

longitudinal elasticity
= 210 GPa

d
deff d6.4
d2

(In the case of a ground shaft)

d : Theoretical interference fitting
4dD
Di1.056.5
5

Di

d0

If a resin material is used for the cage of angular contact ball

bearing, do not excessively heat the bearing (approx. 80C
max.).
As a result of heating bearings after cooling, the inner ring will
axially shrink, and there will be clearance between the bearing
side face and shaft shoulder (Fig. 6.6). For this reason, keep
the bearing and shaft forced together with a press or the like
after the unit returns to normal temperature. After cooling,
check that the bearing is mounted to the shaft correctly.
When using a bearing heater, be sure to avoid overheating.
To prevent bearing from being magnetized, use equipment that
has a demagnetizing feature.
280

Fig. 6.4

280
Diffe
and rence in
afte
r he tempe
r
atin
g th ature
e be
arin before
g 9
0C

260

Example of calculation for press-fitting force

The calculation for press-fitting force for tight fit of 2
m interference between the shaft and inner ring for
the standard angular contact ball bearing is as
summarized below:
7020UC (100150 24)
Interference fit of 2m (solid shaft)
100
deff0.0020.00196
102

4100150
Di1.05115.5
5

Diametric expansion of inner ring bore m

240
220
200
180
160

260
240
220
C

30

r6

200
180
160

140

p6

140

120

n6

120

100

m6

100

80

80

60

k5

60

40

j5

40

20

Max. interference amount m

40
C

inner ring bore

diameter
E deff
d 2
P
1 6.2 do : Hollow shaft bore
2
d
Di
diameter
Di :Inner ring average
raceway groove
Fits between hollow steel shaft and inner ring
diameter

60

d : Shaft diameter,

Fits between solid steel shaft and inner ring

(2) Mounting by heating bearings

When mounting a bearing to a shaft using a constant
temperature chamber, bearing heater or the like, follow
the instructions below.
Heat the bearing at a temperature that reflects the
interference between the shaft and inner ring (see Fig. 6.5).
Assuming linear expansion coefficient 12.510-6,
heating temperatureT, inner ring bore diameter d,
and interference fit
12.510-6dT
Ex.) If d = 100 mm, and = 0.030 (30 m, tight fit),
then the required heating temperature T = 23.8C.
Therefore, the bearing should be heated to
approximately room temperature + 30C. Note that
in practice , the lower-temperature shaft will cool the
bearing, causing it to shrink. Consequently the
bearing may need to be heated by more than 30C
for assembly.
NOTE

50

Fitting surface pressure

Fitting conditions and calculation formulas

Symbol
(unit N [kg]-mm)

80
C
70
C

Table 6.1

20

50

100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450

500 550 600

Bearing bore diameter mm

210000 0.00196
100 2
P1

0.52 MPa
2
100
115.5

Fig. 6.5 Required heating temperature for mounting by

heating inner ring
Remarks: The maximum interference amounts are interference values
associated with class 0 bearings.

Kd0.120.5210024470 N

To accommodate for variation in the lubrication

conditions, incorporate a safety factor of 2 to 3. As a
result, the required press-fitting force is:
470(2 to 3) = 940 to 1410 N

After
cooling

Shrinkage

Fig. 6.6 Cooling after mounting by heating bearings

29

Technical Data

Tightening of inner ring

Correlation between tightening torque and

tightening force with precision bearing nut

When mounting and securing a bearing to a main

spindle, the inner ring side face is usually clamped with
a stepped sleeve or precision bearing nut, and the front
cover situated on the outer ring side face is bolted
down. When utilizing a stepped sleeve or precision
bearing nut to clamp the inner ring, the following
precautions must be followed.

The correlation between tightening torque and

tightening force with a precision bearing nut can be
defined with the formula given below.
Because the thread face of the precision bearing nut,
the thread face of the shaft and the bearing surface and
nut constitute sliding surfaces, the correlation between
tightening torque and tightening force will vary
depending on the friction coefficient. Therefore, the nut
needs to be thoroughly run on the shaft thread in
advance to ensure smooth and uniform tightening.
It is also necessary to determine the correlation
between tightening torque and tightening force by using
a load washer or the like in advance.

Tightening with stepped sleeve

The stepped sleeve is designed that the hydraulically
expanded sleeve is inserted over the shaft, and a
predetermined drive-up force (tightening force) is
applied to the shaft. Then the hydraulic pressure is
released in order to secure the sleeve onto shaft and
provide a tightening force to the bearing. This technique
is a relatively simple locking method (Fig. 6.7).
Note however after being locked in position by
interference with the shaft, the sleeve can come loose
because of deflection of the shaft or a moment load
applied to the shaft.
For this reason, in many cases, a stepped sleeve is
used together with a bearing nut as illustrated in Fig. 6.8.

Stepped sleeve
Application of
tightening force
Hydraulic pressure

Fig. 6.7 Tightening with stepped sleeve

Stepped sleeve
Precision bearing nut

Fig. 6.8 Tightening with stepped sleeve + precision bearing nut

Tightening with precision bearing nut

Required tightening force is achieved with the
precision bearing nut (precision locknut) by correctly
controlling the tightening torque.
Note that when a bearing has been locked with a
precision bearing nut (lock nut), the nut can develop
inclination owing to the clearance on the threaded
portions. If this problem occurs, fine adjustment will be
necessary to obtain necessary running accuracy for the
shaft.

M
F6.6
d2tan+rnn

F
M
d

Thread tightening force N

Nut tightening torque N-mm
Effective diameter of thread mm
Friction angle of thread face

tan
cos

6.7

Lead angle of thread

tan number of threadspitch/d 6.8
rn Average radius of bearing nut surface mm
n Friction coefficient of bearing nut surface
n
0.15
Friction coefficient of thread face
0.15
Half angle of thread
18

Example calculation
Bearing nut
AN20 (Fig. 6.10)
Thread data
M1002 (class 2 thread)
Effective diameter
d=98.701 mm
101
Half angle of thread = 30
Fig. 6.10
The correlation between a
tightening torque and tightening force with the
precision bearing nut can be calculated as follows:
0.15
tan
cos30

9.826

12
tan
98.701

0.370

(101120)2
rn 55.25
2

Locking setscrew
M
Precision lock nut

Fig. 6.9 Tightening with precision bearing nut

30

98.701
2
M
17.163

tan0.3709.82655.250.15

120

Technical Data

Elastic deformation of spacer by

tightening force
When incorporating a bearing into a main spindle, the
bearing must be correctly forced into a predetermined
position and maintained with a predetermined bearing
pressure in order to maintain appropriate accuracies,
clearances and rigidities of the bearing and main
spindle.
When axially locating a duplex angular contact ball
bearing by using a bearing spacer the cross-sectional
area of spacer as well as (depending on the tightening
force) the bearing pressure and elastic deformation by
tightening of the spacer must be considered.

Correlation between inner ring spacer tightening

force and amount of elastic deformation
When securing an angular contact ball bearing onto a
main spindle, the bearing inner ring is tightened and
locked by the shoulder of main spindle and a bearing
nut and/or stepped sleeve. This inner ring tightening
force causes the spacer to develop elastic deformation
in the axial direction, varying the axial clearance on the
bearing. In the case of a back-to-back duplex bearing
(DB, DTBT or DBT) for a main spindle in particular, the
inner ring tightening force will decrease the bearing
clearance, possibly leading to an increased postassembly preload and operating preload. A possible
inner ring tightening force-derived axial deformation can
develop in the form of deformation of both the inner ring
and inner ring spacer. However, NTN's experience has
shown that only the elastic deformation on inner ring
spacers needs to be considered.

Table 6.2 Nut tightening force

Bearing bore diameter
(mm)
68
1012
1517
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
65
70
75
80
85
90
95
100
105
110
120
130
140
150
160
170
180
190
200
220
240
260
280
300

Nut tightening force Front cover drive-up

(N)
(mm)
1470
2200
2900
29404900

49009800

980014700

0.010.02
1470024500

2450034300

3430044100

NOTE 1) NTN has specified the nut tightening forces in this table
based on experiences from reviewing and assessing the
drawings from users. However, NTN has no production record
for bore diameter of 220 mm or larger. Thus, the nut
tightening forces in parentheses are estimated values.
NOTE 2) For ball screw support bearings (BST), a tightening torque
approximately 3 times as large as the preload is recommended.

Front cover drive-up

Inner ring
tightening force
Elastic deformation

Fig. 6.11 Elastic deformation of inner ring spacer

When mounting and securing a bearing onto a main

spindle, the inner ring is usually tightened with a
stepped sleeve or precision bearing nut and the outer
ring side is bolted down. When locking the outer ring
with a front cover, the following points need to be
considered.

Front cover pressing amount

The amount of deformation of a spacer is calculated
using the following formula:
PL
6.9
AE

P
L
A
E

Elastic deformation mm
Inner ring tightening force N
Inner ring spacer width mm
Inner ring cross-sectional area mm2
Young's modulus 210,000 MPa

The require tightening force exerted onto inner ring

spacers varies depending on the bearing manufacturer.
From its experience, NTN adopts the typical values
listed in Table 6.2.

The bearing outer ring is tightened and locked

between the shoulder of the housing and front cover at
the main spindle front section. The front cover is
installed by utilizing bolt holes (6 to 8 positions) on its
flange. The usual pressing allowance on the outer ring
and the front cover, which NTN has adopted through
experience, falls in a range of 0.01 to 0.02 mm. Too
large a pressing amount on the outer ring or a smaller
number of fastening bolts may lead to poor roundness of
the bearing ring.
Typical fit and deterioration in roundness of a
raceway surface resulting from a pressing amount of
0.05 mm on the outer ring are shown in Fig. 6.14. Also,
typical outer ring pressing amount and deterioration of a
raceway surface with a fit of 5m loose are provided in
Fig. 6.15.
31

To avoid deformation of the outer ring raceway

surface, NTN recommends that the outer ring be
installed to a highly accurate housing in transition fit
with a large number of bolts.

12(= 0.01 to 0.02 mm is recommended)

2

Deterioration in roundness of
raceway surface (m)

Technical Data

Fit: 5 m loose
Bolt tightening torque: 2 kN-cm
3

Bolts, 2 pos.
2

Bolts, 6 pos.
1

0
0.01

Locked with bolt

0.02

0.03

0.04

0.05

Pressing allowance on outer ring (mm)

Fig. 6.15 Pressing allowance on outer ring vs.

deterioration in roundness of raceway surface

Front cover

Deterioration in roundness of raceway surface (m)

#13

Checking axial rigidity

#14

Fig. 6.12 Front cover pressing allowance

#15
In the typical method for checking
for the axial rigidity
of a bearing installed to a machine tool, the main
spindle itself is pushed with a push-pull gage to
measure the resultant axial displacement. A method
using a dial indicator is described below.
Two dial indicator are placed on two locations
(axisymmetric locations separated by 180) at the
leading end of the main spindle. Use magnetic stands
to secure the dial indicator to the end face of housing.
Then, apply the load onto the main spindle and the
resultant axial displacement is measured.

Fig. 6.13 Measuring position for roundness on outer

ring raceway surface

Shaft end of
main spindle

Dial indicator

Deterioration in roundness
of raceway (m)

Hydraulic cylinder

8
7

Pressing amount on outer ring: 0.05 mm

Bolt tightening torque: 2 kN-cm

6
5

Bolts, 2 pos.

4
3

Bolts, 6 pos.

Dial indicator

1
0

Photo 6.3
3

12

Fitting amount allowance between bearing

outside surface and housing (m)
Dial indicator

Fig. 6.14 Effect of fit of outer ring on roundness of

raceway surface
Measuring load
(push-pull gage
etc.)

Dial indicator

Fig. 6.16 Checking for axial rigidity

32

Technical Data

Clearance adjustment for cylindrical roller bearing

When incorporating a cylindrical roller bearing into a
main spindle of a machine tool such as an NC turning
machine or machining center, and setting the internal
clearance to zero or to a negative clearance, the inner
ring of the bearing usually has a tapered bore.
The internal clearance is adjusted by fitting the
tapered bore bearing onto the tapered portion of the
main spindle and driving the bearing in the axial
direction to expand the inner ring.
For adjusting the internal clearance, two methods are
available: a method consisting of clearance
measurement for each bearing and adjustment with a
spacer(s), and a method with a post-mounting internal
clearance adjustment gage.

EX. 2
Housing outside diameter Dh=200, outer ring outside
diameter D=150, outer ring bore diameter D0 = 137

Method with clearance measurement and

adjustment with spacer (s)

NOTE: After mounting the inner ring, check that the bearing
side face is square to the main spindle centerline.

Adjust the bearing internal clearance by following the

procedure described below:
Housing
(1) Calculation of outer ring
shrinkage (see Fig. 6.17)
Calculate the interference
Dh
at the fitting area deff
D
D0
between the outer ring and
housing.
Fig. 6.17 Fit between
Measure the housing
outer ring and housing
bore diameter first, and
then calculate the interference deff from the outer
ring outside diameter listed on the bearing inspection
sheet.
EX. 1
Bearing outer ring outside diameter
150 mm (Inspection sheet = -0.005)
Housing bore diameter D
150 mm (measurement data = -0.007)
Interference at fitting area
deff = 0.002 (2 m tight)
Calculate the outer ring shrinkage G with the
formula (6.10).

1150/200
137
0.0015 6.11
G0.002
150 1137/1502
150/2002
2

(2) Measurement of bearing position and bearing

radial clearance on a temporarily mounted bearing
Mount the bearing inner ring with the cage and rollers
onto the tapered shaft (see Fig. 6.18).
In this process, force the inner ring until its tapered
bore face is fully seated, and then measure the
distance between the shaft shoulder and inner ring
side face (L1).

At this point, mount the outer ring, move the outer ring
up and down by hand and then measure the internal
clearance after mounting (r1)(see Fig. 6.19).
Calculate the estimated bearing clearance 1 after
press-fitting the outer ring into the housing with the
formula (6.12). The result of the calculation reflects
the outer ring shrinkage G.
1r1G6.12

EX. 3
Internal clearance after mounting 1= 0.030
G= 0.0015
Outer ring shrinkage
Estimated bearing clearance
1 = 0.030 - 0.0015 = 0.0285
(3) Adjustment of spacer width between shaft
shoulder and inner ring
To adjust the bearing clearance to a predetermined
target value () after mounting, determine the spacer
width Ln with the formula (6.13) (refer to Figs. 6.20 and
6.21).
LnL1f16.13

1D/Dh2
D0
6.10
Gdeff
2
D
1D0/D

D/Dh2

n234

The value f in the formula (6.13) is found in the table

below.

Table 6.3 Value f

L1

Fig. 6.18
Measurement of
bearing position

r1

Fig. 6.19
Measurement of
bearing radial clearance

Ln

rn

Fig. 6.20
Clearance measurement
after insertion of spacer

dmdi

Value

Value
f

0 0.2

13

0.20.3

14

0.30.4

15

0.40.5

16

0.50.6

17

0.60.7

18

di

dm

Fig. 6.21
Explanation of dmdi

33

Technical Data

EX. 4
In the case of NN3020K, if d = dia.100, width B = 37,
and di = d + 1/12 B/2,
then di = dia.101.54717.
If the targeted post-mounting clearance value =
0.015, L1 = 15, dm = dia.60, 1 = 0.0285, then dm/di=
60/101.5417 = 0.5909, and, therefore, f = 17.
Thus, the spacer width Ln between the shoulder and
inner ring equivalent to = 0.015 will be the value
shown by the formula below:
Ln15170.0150.028514.7705
(4) Bearing clearance measurement after insertion
of spacer (see Fig. 6.20)
Insert a spacer that satisfies the spacer width Ln
between the shoulder and inner ring determined in the
previous step, and tighten the inner ring until the spacer
does not move. Next, move the bearing outer ring up
and down by hand and measure the internal clearance
after mounting (post-mounting internal clearance) rn.
The estimated bearing clearance n after press-fitting
of the outer ring into the housing is determined with the
formula below:
n234
nrnG6.14
(5) Final adjustment for spacer width
Repeat the steps (3) and (4) above to gradually
decrease the spacer width Ln so as to adjust the postmounting bearing clearance to the targeted
clearance.
By plotting the correlation between the spacer width
and post-mounting clearance as illustrated in Fig.
6.22, the spacer width for the final targeted clearance
will be more readily obtained.
Positive clearance:
All rollers are sliding rather than rolling.
Clearance = 0:
About half of the rollers are rolling but the rest
are sliding.
Negative clearance:
All rollers are rolling.

Measurement with mounted internal clearance gage

The mounted internal clearance gage has a
cylindrical ring, which has a cut-out so that the ring can
be opened and closed. The bore surface of the ring is
used as a location for measurement. The clearance at
the location for measurement is proportional to the
reading on the dial indicator. As illustrated in Fig. 6.23,
the clearance gage consists of a ring gage, dial
indicator, and attachment components. Its fixture
protects the interference gage against possible
deformation when not in use. For the measuring
operation, detach the fixture.

Dial indicator

Gage support bolt

Fixture
Gage bolt

NN30XXK

Fig. 6.23 Descriptions of various components on

mounted internal clearance measurement gage

Usage of mounted internal clearance gage

(1) Measurement of outer ring raceway diameter
(bore diameter)
Mount the outer ring into the housing.
(For easy mounting, heat the housing.)
Wait until the temperature of the outer ring is same
as that of the inner ring, and then measure the outer
ring raceway diameter (bore diameter). Take
measurements at several points and calculate the
average, and then zero the gage at this average
value.

Assembled clearancemm

0.03
0.02

0.01
Targeted value

Photo 6.4
14.4

14.6

14.8

15

Spacer width Lnmm

Fig. 6.22 Correlation between spacer width Ln and

post-mounting clearance n

34

Ring gage

Open/close bolt

0.04

-0.01
14.2

Handle

NTN

Technical Data

(2) Setup of mounted internal clearance gage

Place the cylinder gage, onto the bore surface of
clearance adjustment gage as shown in Photo 6.5,
and adjust it with the open/close bolt so that its dial 1
is set to zero (see Photo 6.6).
When the reading of dial 1 of the cylinder gage is
zero, adjust the gage bolt so that the pointer of dial 2
points at the red mark (correction amount of the
gage). (Photo 6.6)
With the gage bolt, adjust the gage so that the short
pointer is situated at the scale 2 position. (With the
large size, insert the pin into the hole of the open/
close bolt and make fine-adjustment.)

the distance between the inner ring side face and

shaft shoulder (dimensionRin Fig. 6.24).
Measure this dimension in at least three locations,
and finally adjust the spacer widthRto the average of
three measurements.
Loosen and remove the shaft nut, inner ring spacer
and inner ring from the main spindle.

NOTE 1) Photo 6.6 shows the inner ring and rollers. When
the correction amount of the gage is adjusted, adjust
it only with the thickness gage.
NOTE 2) The pointer of dial 2 is directed to the red mark. The
purpose of this is to compensate clearance error
caused due to the structure of mounted internal
clearance gage. The correction amount can vary
from gage to gage.
NOTE 3) When the pointer of dial 2 is in line with the red
mark, the zero reading on dial 2 coincides with the
zero bearing clearance.

(3) Setting up the mounted internal clearance gage

on the main spindle
Mount the inner ring onto the main spindle, and lightly
tighten the bearing nut.
Tightening the open/close bolt (see Fig. 6.23) on the
clearance adjustment gage will cause the gage bore
to expand.
With the gage bore expanded by about 0.15 mm,
insert the gage into the outside diameter portion of
the roller set in the inner ring. Be careful not to
damage the rollers (Photo 6.7).
Loosening the open/close bolt will cause the gage
bore to shrink.
Loosen the open/close bolt to bring the gage bore
into contact with the outside diameter of the ball set in
the inner ring.
Lightly swing the clearance adjustment gage in the
circumferential direction to stabilize the pointer on the
dial indicator.
(4) Setup of inner ring clearance
Tighten the shaft nut of the main spindle. This should
be done gradually to prevent shock loading.
Tightening the nut further until the reading on the dial
of the clearance adjustment gage becomes zero in
case the clearance is aimed at 0 m.
Once the reading on gage gets zero, carefully swing
the adjustment gage again to check that the
measurement value is correct.
Loosen the open/close bolt on the clearance
adjustment gage to expand the gage bore and
remove the gage from the inner ring.
(5) Determination of spacer width
The inner ring should now be in the position where
the reading on the dial of clearance adjustment gage
was zero in step (4). By using a block gage, measure

Dial 1

Photo 6.5

Dial 2

Photo 6.6

Photo 6.7
Shaft nut

Fig. 6.24 Spacer width dimension

35

Technical Data

(6) Assembly and check of the mounted roller

outside diameter
Insert a spacer of widthR. Then insert the inner ring
and mounting spacer and tighten the shaft nut.
According to a procedure similar to that in steps (3)
"Setting up the mounted internal clearance gage on
the main spindle" and (4) "Setup of inner ring
clearance", check the mounted roller outside diameter
and the clearance setting. Note this process is only a
re-check procedure, and may be omitted once the
clearance measurements fall in a smaller range.

Clearance correction factor and mounted

internal clearance reading
(1) Clearance correction factor
Because of the structure of the NTN mounted internal
clearance adjustment gage, the ratio of the clearance
reading on location for measurement to the reading on
dial indicator is 1:2.5 (clearance indication factor). The
clearance reading on the dial indicator is 2.5 times as
large as the remaining internal clearance. For
reference, a clearance reading conversion table is
given in Table 6.4.
NOTE: Note that the clearance correction factor of certain
bearing numbers is not 1:2.5. Correction factor is
given on the table of inspection results.

(2) Remaining internal clearance (where clearance

indication value 1:2.5)
The reading on the dial indicator is converted into a
mounted internal clearance in the
following manner:
0
5
10
CASE 1: The reading relative to the
zero point is in the clockwise
direction (CW) (Fig. 6.25). The
value of the mounted internal
Fig.6.25
clearance (+) is 1/2.5 times as large
as the reading on dial gage.
Reading on dial gage in Fig. 6.25 = 2.5
Remaining internal clearance = 2.5/2.5 = (+)1m
CASE 2: The reading relative to the zero point is in
the counterclockwise direction (CCW) (Fig. 6.26).
The value of the mounted internal clearance (-) is

Table 6.4 Clearance reading conversion table

36

Reading on
dial gage
(m)

Remaining internal
clearance on location
for measurement
(m)

Reading on
dial gage
(m)

Remaining internal
clearance on location
for measurement
(m)

0.5

0.2

5.5

2.2

1.0

0.4

6.0

2.4

1.5

0.6

6.5

2.6

2.0

0.8

7.0

2.8

2.5

1.0

7.5

3.0

3.0

1.2

8.0

3.2

3.5

1.4

8.5

3.4

4.0

1.6

9.0

3.6

4.5

1.8

9.5

3.8

5.0

2.0

10.0

4.0

1/2.5 times as large as the reading

on dial gage.
Reading on dial gage in Fig. 6.26
= 5.0
Remaining internal clearance =
5.0/2.5 = (-)2m

10

Fig.6.26

Setup of mounted internal clearance

When setting the mounted internal clearance to a
specific negative or positive value, the zero point on dial
indicator by a value [targeted clearance multiplied by
2.5] may be shifted prior to the setup of the clearance
adjustment gage. (In case that the mounted clearance
value is divided by the correction factor, it is not
necessary to the value [targeted clearance multiplied by
2.5])
(2.5: clearance correction factor)

10

5
10

Fig. 6.27 Adjustment for

negative clearance
(remaining internal
clearance: -0.8 m)

Fig. 6.28 Adjustment for

positive clearance
(remaining internal
clearance: +1.0 m)

Precautions for using and storing the mounted

internal clearance adjustment gage
When using the mounted internal clearance
adjustment gage, follow the precautions described
below:
When transferring the outer ring raceway diameter
measured with the cylinder gage to the mounted
internal clearance adjustment gage, use the
adjustment gage in a vertical attitude (Photo 6.8).
When not using the mounted internal clearance
adjustment gage, place it in a horizontal attitude
(Photo 6.9). Also, after completion of clearance
measuring operation, apply rust-preventive oil to the
internal clearance adjustment gage and store in a dry
location.

Photo 6.8 Vertical storage

attitude

Photo 6.9 Horizontal

storage attitude

Technical Data

Tapered bore cylindrical roller bearing

and main spindle taper angle

In order for a precision bearing to perform as
designed, it must be correctly mounted to a shaft and
housing. In particular, when employing a tapered bore
cylindrical roller bearing, accurate finish for the tapered
main spindle and appropriate fit between the bearing
bore and the main spindle are very important to ensure
high accuracy of the main spindle. NTN recommends
that the customer use the NTN tapered shaft ring gage,
which that is finished to same accuracies as the
bearing, so that the customer can achieve higher
precision. NTN also offers a plug gage so that the
customer can check the accuracy of the ring gage.

Usually, Using blue paste between the tapered bore

of a cylindrical roller bearing and a plug gage exhibits a
strong contact mark on the small diameter side as show
in Fig. 6.31. This is because NTN has slightly adjusted
the taper angle of the bearing bore to accommodate for
the difference in thickness of the inner ring below each
row of rollers.

Taper gage for precision roller bearings

Each NTN precision cylindrical roller bearing taper
gage consists of a female gage and a male gage (plug
gage) (Fig. 6.29).
Using blue paste or an equivalent as well as a ring
gage, check the fit of the bearing bore with the main
spindle taper. The correct fit between the main spindle
and the bearing leads to higher accuracy of the main
spindle. The plug gage is intended to check the
accuracy of the associated ring gage. Use the plug
gage to verify the taper accuracies of the associated
ring gage (Fig. 6.30).
B
B
Taper 1/12

d1

D
d1

Taper 1/12
Plug gage (TA)

Fig. 6.31

Checking main spindle taper with ring gage

When checking the main spindle taper angle with a
ring gage, perform the following steps.
Thoroughly clean the surface of the ring gage, and
apply a thin layer of blue paste to four equally-spaced
points.
Clean the tapered surface of the shaft, and gently
insert into the ring gage.
The ring gage to be lightly turning it.
Check the patterns of blue paste deposited on the
shaft surface.
At this point, attach a strip of clear adhesive tape
onto each blue paste spot, and peel off each strip.
Attach strips of adhesive tape onto white paper and
check how much blue paste was deposited onto each
point. Check that more than 80% of the applied blue
paste was deposited on the tapered surface.

Ring gage (TB)

Fig. 6.29 Taper gage

Fig. 6.32 Application of blue paste to ring gage

Table 6.5 Examples of blue

paste records
Fig. 6.30 Blue paste on taper gage

Taper angle
NTN machines the tapered bore of its cylindrical roller
bearings and the taper angle of its taper gages
according to the tolerances below:
Nominal taper angle 1/12 (4 46' 18.8")
Tolerance for precision roller bearing with 1/12 taper
angle is +12"12" (JIS class 4 and 2)
Targeted tolerance for taper gage 1/12 is +9.

Region A Small

Large

Region B Small

Large

Region C Small

Large

Region D Small

Large

A
D

B
C

Fig. 6.33 Regions subjected

to measurement with
blue paste
Small: small diameter side
Large: large diameter side

37

Technical Data

Running-in operation for

main spindle bearings

OR temperature

35

12000

30

8000

25

4000

Speedmin-1

16000
OR temperature
Room temperature
Speed

20
0

Timeh

5S-2LA-BNS020LLBDB100150242 rows
4kNConstant pressure preload
Yes

60

12000

50

10000

40

8000

30

6000

20

4000

OR temperature
Room temperature
Speed

10

Speedmin-1

OR temperature

Bearing
Mounted preload
Jacket cooling

2000
0

0
0

Timeh

Bearing
NN3020HSK10015037
Mounted radial clearance -5m
Jacket cooling
Yes
6000

70
OR temperature
Room temperature
Speed

60

5000

50

4000

40

3000

30

2000

20

1000

Speedmin-1

Generally, the temperature of a main

spindle bearing is measured on the front
cover. The temperature difference
across the bearing outer ring and front
cover reaches 2 to 3C, and at the same
time, the temperature difference
between the hottest rolling element and
the inner ring raceway surface seems to
reach 50 to 10C. For this reason, NTN
recommends that the machine is
stopped if the temperature on front
cover reaches approximately 60C. The
machine should be allowed to cool off
before the running-in operation is
restarted.

5S-7006CDLLBDB3055132 rows
180NFixed-position preload
Yes

40

OR temperature

Run-in is important for ensuring

smooth operation of grease-lubricated
main spindle bearings.
The following two modes of running-in
are recommended:
(1) The bearing speed is gradually
increased in steps. After the
temperature is saturated at each
speed setting, the speed is
increased to the next step (Fig.
6.34).
(2) The bearing is run for one minute at
around the maximum operating
speed of the spindel. This cycle is
repeated two or three times (Fig.
6.35) as needed.
(1) is the ordinary method used,
however it takes slightly longer to reach
the maximum operating speed of the
spindel. In contrast, (2) can shorten the
running-in time, however higher risk of
sudden bearing temperature increase is
considerable, so that running speed and
its holding time must be set carefully.

Bearing
Mounted preload
Jacket cooling

10
0

10

12

14

Timeh

Fig. 6.34

60

6000

50

5000

40

4000

30

3000

20

2000
OR temperature
Room temperature
Speed

10

0.5

1.5

Timeh

Fig. 6.35

38

1000
0

0
2

Speedmin-1

OR temperature

Bearing
NN3020HSK10015037
Mounted radial clearance -5m
Jacket cooling
Yes

Technical Data

7. Lubrication of Bearings

Temperature increase

Temperature
increase

Friction loss

Friction loss

high

high

In a bearing, lubrication forms a thin oil film on both

rolling and sliding surfaces to prevent metal-to-metal
contact. The benefits of lubrication can be summarized
as follows:
(1) Alleviation of friction and wear
(2) Removal of heat due to friction
(3) Longer bearing life
(4) Rust prevention
(5) Protection against contamination by foreign
material

To achieve the full lubricating effect, it is necessary to

use a lubricating system suited to the operating
conditions, select a quality lubricant, remove dust from
the lubricant, and design an appropriate sealing
structure to prevent contamination as well as lubricant
leakage.
The main spindle of a machine tool usually uses an
extremely low volume of lubricant so heat generation
from stirring of the lubricant is minimal.
Fig. 7.1 summarizes the relationships between oil
volume, friction loss, and bearing temperature.
The lubrication methods available for bearings in a
machine tool include grease lubrication, oil mist
lubrication, air-oil lubrication, and jet lubrication. Each
method has unique advantages. Therefore, the
lubricating system that best suits the lubrication
requirements should be used.
Tables 7.1 and 7.2 summarize the features of various
lubrication methods.

Table 7.2 Evaluation of various lubricating systems

A

Oil volume

Lubrication
method

Grease
lubrication

Oil mist
lubrication

Air-oil
lubrication

Jet
lubrication

Handling

Reliability

Temperature
increase

Cooling effect

Power loss

Environmental
contamination

1.4106

2.2106

2.5106

4.0106

large
Criterion

Fig. 7.1
Table 7.1 Oil volume, friction loss and bearing
temperature (Fig. 7.1)
Zone

Features

With an extremely low volume of oil,

partial metal-to-metal contact occurs
between the rolling elements and
raceway surface, possibly leading to
abnormal wear and bearing seizure.

Typical lubrication
method

Sealing
structure

A uniform, uninterrupted oil film is

formed. Friction is minimal and
bearing temperature is kept low.

Even with a greater oil volume, heat

generation and cooling are in
balance.

Grease lubrication
Oil mist lubrication
Air-oil lubrication

Circulating lubrication

Temperature increase is constant

regardless of oil volume.

Circulating lubrication

A further increase in oil volume

contributes to a significant cooling
effect, and the bearing temperature
drops.

Forced circulating
lubrication
Jet lubrication

Allowable
dmn value

LegendExcellentGoodFairPoor
1 The permissible dmn values are approximate values:
dmn: pitch circle diameter across rolling elements [mm] multiplied by
speed [min-1]

39

Technical Data

Grease lubrication
Grease lubrication is the most common, as it
simplifies the main spindle structure more than other
lubricating systems. With an adequate amount of
quality grease prefilled, this system can be used over a
wide range of speed. The allowable maximum speed
varies with the type and size of bearing: for a highspeed angular contact ball bearing, the dmn value
should be 1.4106 as a guideline. For applications
exceeding this range, consult NTN Engineering.

Grease types
A lithium-based grease, with a mineral oil base, is
commonly used as a lubricant for rolling bearings. Its
operating temperature range is -30C to 130C.
When the temperature increase must be limited, as
with the main spindle of a machine tool, NTN
recommends the use of a synthetic-oil-based grease
(diester, diester+mineral oil) which penetration is NLGI
grade 1 or 2.
Table 7.3 lists technical data for greases commonly
used for machine tool main spindles.

Amount of grease required

Usually, a bearing for the main spindle of a machine
tool requires that grease volume be low so heat
generated by the stirring of the grease during highspeed operation is minimal. A guideline for the amount
of grease used for a main spindle bearing is given
below.
Angular contact ball bearing
(dmn value 650103); 15% of bearing free space
(dmn value 650103); 12% of bearing free space
Cylindrical roller bearing; 10% of bearing free space
Tapered roller bearing; 15% of bearing free space
The space in the bearing typically used for main
spindles are listed in dimension tables. Determine a fill
amount by referring to the relevant dimension table.
Before filling a bearing with grease, remove the
rustproof coating from the bearing with clean wash oil
and allow the bearing to dry completely. Then fill and
uniformly distribute an appropriate amount of grease in
the bearing with an syringe, plastic bag, etc.

Table 7.3 Typical greases for machine tool main spindle bearings
Grease brand

SE-1

Urea

Thickener

ISOFLEX
NBU15

Stabllugs
NBU 8EP

Multemp
LRL3

Ba complex soap

Multemp
PS2

ISOFLEX
LDS18

Li soap

Base oil

Ester

Synthetic oil

Ester

Mineral oil

Synthetic oil

Diester+mineral oil

Synthetic oil

Base oil viscosity

(40C) mm2/S

22

40.6

20

105

37.3

15.3

16

Dropping point
C

220

254

200

220

208

190

180

Operating
temperature range
C

50120

40150

60130

35150

40150

55130

60130

Application

Applied to ULTAGE
Series grease-lubricated
sealed angular contact
ball bearings

Applied to ULTAGE
Series grease-lubricated
sealed angular contact
ball bearings

Most commonly
used for main
spindles

Suitable for roller

bearings subject
to large loads

L749

L448

15K

L135

NTN
grease code

40

MP-1

Excellent low
Wider operating
temperature and
temperature range friction characteristics

12K

1K

Suitable for ball

bearing

6K

Technical Data

Air-oil lubrication
Air-oil lubrication (also known as oil-air lubrication or
oil and air lubrication) is widely adopted for main
spindle bearings in order to cope with the higher speed
and precision of machine tools and to ensure more
reliable lubrication.
Air-oil lubrication employs a method by which
compressed air is used to provide lubricating oil in
precisely controlled amounts. Generally, an air-oil
lubrication unit a volumetric piston-type distributor that
accurately meters the required minimum amount of
lubricating oil and provides it at optimal intervals
controlled by a timer.

Air-oil lubrication nozzle spacer

Air-oil lubrication requires a specialized nozzle
because it supplies the lubricating oil to the inside of the
bearing by means of compressed air. (Fig. 7.3)
A nozzle with a hole diameter of 1.0 to 1.5 mm and a
length 4 to 6 times the hole diameter is recommended.

Bearing

Spacer with
nozzle

Special features of air-oil lubrication

Air-oil lubrication has the following advantages over
conventional oil mist lubrication:
Accurately supplies a minimal amount of oil.
Can be adjusted to provide the proper amount of
lubricant for individual bearings.
No limitations exist regarding lubricant viscosity and
extreme pressure additives.
Compressed air helps cool the bearing.
Variations in the distance and height of lubrication
points do not affect lubrication efficiency.
Health hazards of oil mist are minimized.
Low oil consumption.
Use of compressed air can prevent contamination of
the bearing by other coolants.
The recommended oil viscosity is 10 to 32 mm2/s.

Example of an air-oil lubrication unit

Fig. 7.2 shows the structure of an air-oil lubrication
unit.
Air-oil lubricating unit
Solenoid valve
(for air shut-off)

Pressure
gauge

Pressure
switch
(air)

Air

Mixing valuve
Oil/air

Air filter

Pump unit
Pressure gauge

Mist
separator

Oil
Oil
regulating
valve

Timer
Filter 10

Fig. 7.3 Feed system for air-oil lubrication

Exhaust method for air-oil lubrication

Air-oil lubrication uses a large volume of air to feed
lubricating oil to the bearing. Therefore, it is essential
that the air fed into the bearing be allowed to escape. If
the air is not smoothly exhausted, the lubricating oil will
remain in the bearing and possibly contribute to bearing
seizure. In the design stage, remember to allow ample
space on the exhaust side of the bearing in order to
increase exhaust efficiency and provide a larger oil
drain hole to ensure smooth airflow. In addition, for
types that allow for repositioning of the spindle, it is
recommended that the shoulder dimensions of all parts
is designed to prevent lubricating oil from flowing back
into the bearing after a change in the attitude of the
main spindle. Unnecessary dimensional differences can
also contribute to stagnancy of the lubricating oil.

Pressure
switch (oil)

RV

PSW
M

Oil level
switch

Fig. 7.2 Air-oil lubricating system

Air-oil lubricating unit

Mist
separator

Air tank (level switch)

Oil

Air
Air filter

Pressure switch

Solenoid valve
Timer

Air-oil
line
Nozzle

Air

41

Technical Data

Recommended targeted position with nozzle

(1) Angular contact ball bearings

Table 7.4 Air-oil/oil mist nozzle spacer dimensions

Table 7.5 Air-oil/oil mist nozzle spacer dimensions

Note: Spacer dimensions are the same for all contact

angles (15, 25and 30).

Note: Spacer dimensions are the same for all contact

angles (15, 20 and 25).

42

Outer diameter of Inner diameter of

inner ring spacer outer ring spacer

Bearing No.

7900U
7901U
7902U
7903U
7904U
7905U
7906U
7907U
7908U
7909U
7910U
7911U
7912U
7913U
7914U
7915U
7916U
7917U
7918U
7919U
7920U
7921U
7922U
7924U
7926U

15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15

14.6
16.6
19.5
21.5
26.3
31.3
36.3
41.5
48.1
52.8
57.3
64.1
69.1
74.1
80.9
85.9
91.4
97.4
102.4
107.4
113.9
118.9
123.9
135.4
146.9

12.4
14.4
17.2
19.2
24
29
34
39.2
45.8
50.5
54.3
61.1
66.1
71.1
77.9
82.9
88.4
94.4
99.4
104.4
110
115
120
132
143

7000U
7001U
7002U
7003U
7004U
7005U
7006U
7007U
7008U
7009U
7010U
7011U
7012U
7013U
7014U
7015U
7016U
7017U
7018U
7019U
7020U
7021U
7022U
7024U
7026U

15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15

15.4
18.1
21.3
23.3
28.6
33.1
39.6
44.6
50.4
55.9
60.9
67.4
72.4
77.4
83.9
88.9
95.4
100.4
106.9
111.9
116.9
123.4
129.9
139.9
153.9

13.1
15.8
19
21
25.8
30.5
36.5
41
47
52
57
63
68
73
78
83
90
95
101
106
112
117
122
133
143

Outer diameter of Inner diameter of

inner ring spacer outer ring spacer

Bearing No.

13.4
15.4
18.2
20.2
25
30
35
40.2
46.8
51.5
55.8
62.6
67.6
72.6
79.4
84.4
89.9
95.9
100.9
105.9
112
117
122
134
145

18.5
20.5
25
27
32.5
37.5
42.5
50.5
56.5
63
67.5
73.5
78.5
84
93
97.5
103
112
117
122
131
136
141
155
169

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

HSE910U
HSE911U
HSE912U
HSE913U
HSE914U
HSE915U
HSE916U
HSE917U
HSE918U
HSE919U
HSE920U
HSE921U
HSE922U
HSE924U
HSE926U
HSE928U
HSE930U
HSE932U
HSE934U

15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15

58.9
64.8
69.8
74.8
81.6
86.6
91.6
98.1
103.1
108.1
115.3
120.3
125.3
136.9
148.4
158.4
172.1
182.1
192.1

55
61
66
71
77
82
87
93
98
103
109
114
119
130
141
151
164
174
184

14.1
16.8
20
22
26.8
31.5
37.5
42
48
54
59
65
70
75
80
85
92
97
103
108
114
120
125
136
146

22
24.5
27.5
31
37.5
41.5
49.5
56
61.5
67.5
72.5
82
87
92
101
106
115
120
129
134
139
148
157
167
184

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

HSE010
HSE011
HSE012
HSE013
HSE014
HSE015
HSE016
HSE017
HSE018
HSE019
HSE020
HSE021
HSE022
HSE024
HSE026
HSE028
HSE030
HSE032
HSE034

15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15

61.6
69.7
74.7
79.7
86.9
91.9
99.2
104.2
111.4
116.4
121.4
128.7
135.2
145.2
158.5
170.8
181.5
193.2
207.8

57
63
68
73
76
83
90
95
101
106
112
117
122
133
143
153
165
175
185

56
62
67
72
79
84
89
95
100
105
111
116
121
132
143
153
166
176
186

67
74
79
84
93
98
103
112
117
122
131
136
141
155
169
179
196
206
216

1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

59
65
70
75
80
85
92
97
103
108
114
119
126
136
149
160
171
183
197

73
82
87
92
101
106
115
120
129
134
138
148
158
167
187
197
210
225
245

1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

Technical Data

Fig. 7.4 7U, HSE, BNT and HTA types

Table 7.7 Air-oil/oil mist nozzle spacer dimensions

Table 7.6 Air-oil/oil mist nozzle spacer dimensions

Note: Spacer dimensions are the same for all contact

angles (30and 40).
Outer diameter of Inner diameter of
inner ring spacer outer ring spacer

Outer diameter of Inner diameter of

inner ring spacer outer ring spacer

Bearing No.

13.2
15.2
18.1
20.1
24.5
29.5
34.5
39.5
45.4
50

18.5
20.5
24
26
32.5
37.5
42.5
50
56
61.5

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

13
15.6
18.6
20.6
25
30.5
35.5
41
47
52

14
16.6
19.6
21.6
26
31.5
36.5
42
48
53

22
24
28
30
37
41.5
49.5
56
61
68

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

HTA920
HTA921
HTA922
HTA924
HTA926
HTA928
HTA930
HTA932
HTA934
HTA936
HTA938
HTA940

15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15

116.4
121.4
126.4
138.7
151
161
174.9
184.9
194.9
208.1
218.1
232.5

110
115
120
132
143
153
165
175
185
197
208
220

112
117
122
134
145
155
167
177
187
199
210
222

15.4
16.8
19.3
22
26.5
32
37.5
43.5
49
54.5

16.4
17.8
20.3
23
27.5
33
38.5
44.5
50
55.5

24.5
26.5
29
34
40.5
45.5
54.5
64
71.5
76.5

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

HTA006
HTA007
HTA008
HTA009
HTA010
HTA011
HTA012
HTA013
HTA014
HTA015
HTA016
HTA017
HTA018
HTA019
HTA020
HTA021
HTA022
HTA024
HTA026
HTA028
HTA030
HTA032
HTA034

15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15

39.5
44.3
49.9
56.1
61.1
69.3
74.3
79.3
86.4
91.4
98.7
103.7
111
116
121
128.4
134.9
144.9
158.1
170.4
181.2
192.7
207.4

35.5
41
47
52
57
63
68
73
78
83
90
95
101
106
112
117
122
133
143
153
165
175
185

36.5
42
48
53
59
65
70
75
80
85
92
97
103
108
114
119
126
136
149
160
171
183
197

Bearing No.

BNT900
BNT901
BNT902
BNT903
BNT904
BNT905
BNT906
BNT907
BNT908
BNT909

12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12

14.3
16.3
19.2
21.2
26
31
35.8
41.1
47.1
52.3

12.2
14.2
17.1
19.1
23.5
28.5
33.5
38.5
44.4
49

BNT000
BNT001
BNT002
BNT003
BNT004
BNT005
BNT006
BNT007
BNT008
BNT009

15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15

15.1
17.7
21
22.9
28.1
32.6
39.1
44
49.8
55.2

BNT200
BNT201
BNT202
BNT203
BNT204
BNT205
BNT206
BNT207
BNT208
BNT209

15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15
15

17.5
18.9
21.4
24.6
30
34.8
40.9
46.6
52.5
56.9

130
135
140
153
167
177
195
205
215
233
242
260

1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

49.5
56
61
68
73
82
87
92
101
106
115
120
129
134
138
148
158
167
187
197
210
225
245

1
1
1
1
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

43

Technical Data

(a) When lubricant is supplied between

the cage and inner ring

(b) When lubricant is supplied between

the cage and outer ring

Fig. 7.5 78C, 79C, 70C and 72C types

Table 7.8 Air-oil/oil mist nozzle spacer dimensions

Bearing No.

44

(b) When lubricant is supplied between the cage and outer ring
Outer diameter of
inner ring spacer

Inner diameter of
outer ring spacer

7805C
7806C
7807C
7808C
7809C
7810C
7811C
7812C
7813C
7814C
7815C
7816C
7817C
7818C
7819C
7820C
7821C
7822C
7824C
7826CT1
7828CT1
7830CT1
7832CT1
7834CT1

32.6
37.6
42.6
47.8
53.2
59.5
66.2
71.7
77.7
82.4
87.8
92.5
101
106
111
115.6
120.7
129.2
139.2
152.3
162.3
175.3
185.5
198.7

33.3
38.2
43.1
48.4
54.3
60.2
67.4
72.8
78.7
83.6
88.8
93.6
102.5
107.3
112.4
117
122
131.1
141.1
154.5
164.5
177.8
188
201.5

28
33
38
43
48.5
54
59
64.5
70.5
75.5
80.5
85.5
91.5
96.5
101.5
106.5
111.5
117.5
127.5
139
149
160.5
170.5
181

29
34
39
44
49.5
55
61
66.5
72.5
77.5
82.5
87.5
93.5
98.5
104
110
115
122
132
144
155
167.5
177.5
188

34
39
44
49
54
60.5
68
73.5
79.5
84.5
89.5
94.5
103.5
108.5
113.5
118.5
123.5
132.5
142.5
156.5
166.5
180.5
190.5
204.5

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

7928CT1B
7930CT1B
7932CT1B
7934CT1B

171.3
187.2
198.3
208.2

176.9
193.8
201.9
211.9

153
165
175
185

163
179
190
200

179
197
205
215

1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

Technical Data

7805C7834CT17928CT1B7934CT1B7200C7218C B is recommended.
7028CT1B7040CT1B7219C7226C A is recommended.
If targeting at A is impossible, B is acceptable. If both A and B are impossible, targeting from C is acceptable.

Table 7.9 Air-oil/oil mist nozzle spacer dimensions

(a) When lubricant is supplied between the cage and inner ring (b) When lubricant is supplied between the cage and outer ring

Bearing No.

Outer diameter of
inner ring spacer

Inner diameter of
outer ring spacer

Outer diameter of Inner diameter of

inner ring spacer outer ring spacer

Common to (a) & (b)

7200C
7201C
7202C
7203C
7204C
7205C
7206C
7207C
7208C
7209C
7210C
7211C
7212C
7213C
7214C
7215C
7216C
7217C
7218C
7219C
7220C
7221C
7222C
7224C
7226C

119.4
126.1
131.6
138.3
149.3
161.3

111.5
117.5
122.5
129
141
152.5

113.5
120
125
131
143
155

23
24.9
28.3
32.4
38.4
43.3
51.1
59.1
65.9
71.3
76.4
84.6
94.4
100.8
106.2
112.2
119.5
128
136.2
144.4
152.7
159.9
168.5
181.5
193

23.8
25.8
29.4
33.7
40.2
44.7
53
61.2
68.3
73.8
78.8
87.4
97.5
104.1
109.6
115.6
123.2
131.8
140.4
149
157.7
165.1
174.1
187.2
199.2

15.5
17.5
20.5
23.5
26.5
32
37.5
43.5
49
54.5
59.5
66
72
77.5
83
88.5
94
100
106
111.5
117.5
122.5
129
141
152.5

17.5
19.5
22.5
26.5
31
36
44
52
58
63
68
76
85
92
96
102
109
117
125
132
141
148
157
169
181

25
27
30
35
41.5
46.5
54.5
64
71.5
76.5
81
90
99.5
108.5
114
118
127
136
146
155
164
173.5
182
196
210

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

7028CT1B
7030CT1B
7032CT1B
7034CT1B
7036CT1B
7038CT1B
7040CT1B

162.9
174.4
185.7
199.2
212.2
222.2
235.2

153
165
175
185
197
210
220

157
169
180
193
206
216
229

183.5
196.6
209.8
226
242
252
268

187.4
200.9
214.2
231.3
248
258
275

153
165
175
185
197
210
220

172
185
198
214
230
240
255

197
210
225
245
263
270
290

1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

45

Technical Data

(2) Cylindrical roller bearings

E

10

Fig. 7.6 NN30 and NN30T6 types

Fig. 7.7 N10HS type

Table 7.10

Table 7.11

Bearing No.

NN3005
NN3006
NN3007
NN3008
NN3009
NN3010
NN3011
NN3012
NN3013
NN3014
NN3015
NN3016
NN3017
NN3018
NN3019
NN3020
NN3021
NN3022
NN3024
NN3026
NN3028
NN3030
NN3032
NN3034
NN3036
NN3038

40.3
47
53.5
59.5
66
71
79
84
90 (89)
98
103
111
116
125
130
135
144 (143)
153 (152)
163 (162)
179
189
202
215.5
232
251
261

Outer diameter of Inner diameter of

inner ring spacer outer ring spacer

31
38
43
48
54
59
65
70
75
82
87
93
98
105
110
115
120
127
137
150
160
172
183
196
209
219

33.8
40.5
47.0
53.0
59.5
64.5
72.5
77.5
82.5
90
95
103
108
117
122
127
135
144
154
171
181
194
208
224
243
253

Bearing No.

Outer diameter of
inner ring spacer

Inner diameter of
outer ring spacer

42
50
57
63
69
74
83
88
93
102
107
115
120
130
135
140
149
158
168
185
195
210
223
240
259
269

1
1
1
1
1
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

N1006HS
N1007HS
N1008HS
N1009HS
N1010HS
N1011HS
N1012HS
N1013HS
N1014HS
N1015HS
N1016HS
N1017HS
N1018HS
N1019HS
N1020HS
N1021HS
N1022HS
N1024HS
N1026HS
N1028HS
N1030HS
N1032HS

86
91
97.5
102.5
110
115
120
125.9
133.1
143.3
157.2
167.2
179.6
191.1

40.4
46.5
51.7
57.7
62.7
69.7
74.8
79.7

37
42
47
52
57
63.5
68.5
73.5
78.5
83.5
88.5
93.5
102
107
112
118
123
133
143
153
165
175

38
43
48
53
58
64.5
69.5
74.5
80.5
85.5
90.5
95.5
104
109
114
120
125
135
145
155
167
177

50
57
63
69
74
83
88
93
102
107
115
120
130
135
140
149
158
168
185
195
210
223

1
1
1
1
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

NOTE) With certain products, the dimension C of L1 cage differs from

that of T6 cage. The values in parentheses ( ) are dimensions
C of L1 cages. Other dimensions of L1 cages are same as those
of T6 cages.

10

Fig. 7.8 N10HSR type

Table 7.12
Bearing No.
N1011 HSRT6
N1012 HSRT6
N1013 HSRT6
N1014 HSRT6
N1016 HSRT6
N1018 HSRT6
N1020 HSRT6

46

A
71.5
76.6
81.5
89.7
101.3
113.8
123.8

Outer diameter of Inner diameter of

inner ring spacer outer ring spacer

63.5
68.5
73.5
78.5
88.5
102
112

64.5
69.5
74.5
80.5
90.5
104
114

83
88
93
102
115
130
140

1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5

Technical Data

Jet lubrication
With this lubricating system, a high-speed jet of
lubricant is injected into the bearing from the side. This
is the most reliable lubricating technique and is typically
used on the main spindle bearings of jet engines and
gas turbines. It is currently capable of a dmn value of up
to approximately 4.0106.
When used as a lubricating system for the main
spindle of a machine tool, it can minimize the
temperature increase of the bearing. However, the

resultant torque loss is great, as a large amount of oil is

supplied to each bearing. Therefore, this arrangement
requires a powerful motor to drive the main spindle.
Low viscosity oil (2-3 mm2/s) is used.
Fig. 7.9 shows examples of the temperature increase
with air-oil lubrication and jet lubrication, while Fig. 7.10
graphically plots test results of power loss.

Bearing : 2LA-HSE020, bore 100 mm, outside diameter 150 mm

Rolling element : Bearing steel

Bearing : 2LA-HSE020, bore 100 mm, outside diameter 150 mm

Rolling element : Bearing steel

50

Air-oil
(Oil volume: 0.03 mL/min,
air: 75 NL/min)

40

30

Power loss kW / bearing

Temperature increase on outer ring C

60

Jet
(Oil volume: 3.1L/min)

Air-oil
(Oil volume: 0.03 mL/min
air: 75 NL/min)

Jet
(Oil volume: 3.1L/min)

20

5000

10000

15000

20000

Speed min-1
10
2.5

1.25

dmn value

0
5000

10000

15000
Speed min-1
1.25

106

20000

2.5

Fig. 7.10 Comparison of power loss with air-oil

lubrication and with jet lubrication

dmn value 106

Fig. 7.9 Comparison of temperature increase of outer

ring with air-oil lubrication and jet lubrication
(The temperature increase with air-oil lubrication is relative to
room temperature; the temperature with jet lubrication is relative to
lubricant temperature.)

47

Technical Data

8. New Technologies

The new ULTAGE Series of super-

New material and new surface

high-speed precision bearings for

machine tool main spindles
NTN has responded to need for improved efficiency,
reliability, quality and environmental responsibility for
machine tools by developing the ULTAGE Series of
super-high-speed precision bearings. This new line of
bearings demonstrates excellent performance thanks to
the optimal internal design; a new approach to surface
quality; and the use of special materials, special
grease, and seals on both sides.
"ULTAGE" is a new word coined by combining
Ultimate and Stage to stand for NTNs wish to realize
the ultimate level of precision bearing design.

From low-speed
heavy-duty machining
to high-speed light
-duty machining

modification technology
The ULTAGE super high-speed precision bearing
series for machine tool main spindles employs a special
material that boasts excellent anti-seizure properties
and wear resistance, as well as a unique surface
modification technique.

Life under normal temperatures

The test results obtained from point contact test pieces

under greater loading are graphically plotted in Fig. 8.1.
Test conditions
1222 mm cylindrical roller
19.053/4"
5.88 GPa
46,240 cycles/min
Turbine VG56 (oil bath)

Test piece
Ball
Max. contact stress
Loading frequency
Lubricant

Improved
durability

Schematic of test rig

Ball

Improved
roundness with
work pieces

Meets
ISO 14001

Test piece

Our ideal is to offer a super high-speed precision

bearing that offers excellent reliability while remaining
eco-friendly.

Design

The internal bearing design has been optimized to

cope with varying applications and operating conditions
in order to realize high speed and high rigidity, limited
temperature increase, high precision, energy saving
and low noise emission. It performs optimally in a
variety of situations.

Material

Adoption of special material and a special surface

modification technique has resulted in greatly enhanced
reliability.

Lubrication

Use of unique eco-conscious technology and special

grease contributes to decreased pollution and
enhanced energy savings.

Precision

Our super high-precision technology, in conjunction

with our proven precision bearing technology, will help
attain further improved precision.
48

Cumulative probability of failure (%)

Concept
99
SUJ2

Special material

80

No flaking

50

20
10
5

1
107

108

109

1010

LifeLoading Cycle

L10 (107cycles)
SUJ2
6.3
Special material
79.8

Life ratio
1
12.7

The rolling fatigue life of the special material is

approximately 13 times as long as that of SUJ2.
Fig. 8.1 Life test results with point contact test pieces

Technical Data

Life under high temperature

Improved wear resistance

The test results obtained from thrust-type test pieces

at 200C are graphically plotted in Fig. 8.2.

Test results with a Sawin type friction and wear test

machine are illustrated in Fig. 8.3.

Test conditions

Test conditions

Speed
Peripheral speed
Test duration
Max. contact stress
Lubricant
Rotating test piece
Fixed test piece

4729t7 flat plate

6.351/4"Ceramic ball
5.5 GPa
3,000 cycles/min
200C
Ether-based oil

Test piece
Ball
Max. contact stress
Loading frequency
Oil temperature
Lubricant

Schematic of test rig

Rotating
4775 min-1
test piece
10 m/s
10 min
2.0 GPa
VG2
Material being tested
Fixed test piece
Si3N4

Schematic of test rig

Ceramic ball

Special
material

2310-6 mm3

SUJ2

14410-6 mm3

Amount of wear

Test piece (flat plate)

Cumulative probability of failure (%)

The wear resistance of the special material is

6 times better than that with SUJ2.
99
SUJ2

Fig. 8.3 Test results with Sawin type friction and wear
test machine

Special material

80
50

No flaking
20

Improved anti-seizure property

Test results with a two roller testing machine are
illustrated in Fig. 8.4.

10
5

Test conditions
1
105

106

107

108

Life (loading cycles)

SUJ2
Special material

L10 (105cycles)
9.1
No flaking

Life ratio
1
30

The rolling fatigue life of the special material

at a high temperature of 200C is more than
30 times as long as that of SUJ2.
Fig. 8.2 High temperature life test results with thrusttype test pieces

Driving side speed

Driven side speed
Sliding velocity
Max. contact stress
Lubricant
Driving roller
Driven roller

Special
material

SUJ2

Schematic of test rig

200 min-1
Driven roller
120 min-1
10.1 m/s
2.9 GPa
VG2
Material being tested
Material being tested

Driving roller

3000 min or longer

200min

Duration

The anti-seizure property of the special material is

more than 15 times better than as that with SUJ2.
Fig. 8.4 Test results with a two roller testing machine

49

Technical Data

Adoption of ceramic balls

A comparison of temperature increase, which can
vary depending on the material of rolling element, is
illustrated in Fig. 8.5.
Test conditions
Basic bearing number HSE020
100150242 rows)
2.5 kN (constant pressure preloading)
Grease
None

Test bearing

Temperature increase
of outer ring C

Preload
Lubrication
Outer casing cooling
40

Environmentally conscious technology

The eco-friendly ULTAGE Series is available in two
specifications: an eco-friendly air-oil lubrication design
that offers energy savings by reducing air and oil
consumptions; and a grease-lubricated, sealed design
that reduces environmental impact by employing a
grease lubrication system that is capable of higherspeed operation.

Required functions for the main spindle bearing

30

Speed

Rigidity

Durability

Precision

Eco-friendly
design

20

10

Steel balls
Ceramic balls

0
0

5000

10000

15000

Shaft speedmin-1
0

0.5

For main spindles

1.5

1.9

dmn value 106

The ULTAGE series bearings employ

well-proven ceramic balls to efficiently limit
temperature increase.

Eco-friendly air-oil lubrication

HSL type

N10HSL type

Fig. 8.5 Comparison of temperature increase with steel

and ceramic rolling elements
Reduced air/oil consumption contributes
to energy savings.
Grease lubrication
High-speed
BNS LLB type

Standard
70/79AD, CD LLB
type

Sealed

Sealed

N10HSRT6
type

The introduction of a grease lubrication system

that is capable of high-speed operation
reduces the environmental impact.

For ball screw support

Grease lubrication
2A-BST LXL type

2A-BST type

Sealed

Combines durability
with ease of handling.

50

Durability

Technical Data

Grease-lubricated sealed angular contact ball bearings

(1) Ease of handling
ULTAGE angular contact ball bearings with seals are grease-prefilled bearings. No grease filling is necessary; you
need only wipe off the rust-preventive oil before assembly. Seals of different colors are employed to differentiate the
front and back. The black front face and orange back face are easily identified, which also makes it easy to orient the
bearings in combinations (Table 8.1).

Table 8.1 Bearing combinations and seal colors

DB set (back-to-back)
Orange seal

Orange seal

DF set (face-to-face)
Black seal

Black seal

(2) Suggestions for simplified spindle structure

The ULTAGE Series sealed angular contact ball bearing makes possible high-speed operation with grease
lubrication thanks to optimized internal design. Grease lubrication with minimal mist splash simplifies main spindle
structure and contributes to lower environmental impact as well as cost reduction (Fig. 8.6).

Air-oil lubrication

Grease lubrication

Simplifies the main spindle

structure and reduces both the
initial cost and operating cost.

Fig. 8.6 Alteration to lubrication system (air-oil lubrication to grease lubrication)

51

Technical Data

Eco-friendly air-oil lubricated angular contact

ball bearings and cylindrical roller bearings
When combined with the eco-friendly nozzle, the ecofriendly air-oil lubricated angular contact ball bearing
(HSL/HSFL Series) or cylindrical roller bearing
(N10HSL[K] Series) can reduce the emissions of oil
mist and noise.
(1) Reduction of oil mist
The eco-friendly air-oil lubricated bearing does not
spray compressed air from the nozzle; instead, it uses
the centrifugal force of the rotating inner ring to supply
lubricating oil into the bearing. For this reason, this type
of bearing conserves both air and oil. In addition, it
reduces the amount of oil mist emitted from the

labyrinth seal of the spindle. The following photographs

reveal the difference between the amount of oil mist
emitted from the conventional standard bearing and
that emitted from the eco-friendly bearing.
The lubricating oil discharged with air passes through
the inside of the bearing and is then exhausted as a
large volume of mist.
The lubricating oil exhausted from the bearing in the
mist state is collected through the discharge port of the
main spindle housing, but some of the oil mist leaks
from the main spindle labyrinth seal and contaminates
the immediate environment around the machine.
Adoption of the eco-friendly bearing therefore
improves the working environment.

Eco-friendly
bearing design

Standard bearing

Air-oil

Air-oil

Eco-friendly nozzle

Standard
nozzle
Lubricating oil supplied
with a large quantity of air

A small amount of
lubricanting oil is supplied

Lubricating oil supplied through

centrifugal force

2LA-HSL Type

2LA-HSE type

Conventional bearings consume a great deal of air when supplying

lubricating oil to the bearing.

Standard bearing

The eco-friendly type uses centrifugal force to supply lubricating oil

into the bearing.

Eco-friendly
bearing design

Inner ring

Atomized when emitted from the nozzle

The oil emitted from the nozzle is in a liquid state.

Standard bearing

A large amount of oil mist passes through the bearing,

contaminating the working environment.

52

Eco-friendly
bearing design

The amount of oil mist is reduced, minimizing environmental

contamination in work areas.

Technical Data

(2) Noise Reduction

The standard air-oil lubrication method uses air to
supply a slight amount of oil. It also uses a special
nozzle spacer, as shown in Figs. 8.7 and 8.9.
In addition, this method uses a nozzle measuring 1 to
1.5 mm in diameter to supply oil to the raceway surface
of the bearing at the rate of 30 to 40 NL/min/bearing. To
supply this oil, the nozzle emits compressed air as a jet
to break the air barrier of the bearing, which is created
when running at high speed. In this way, the air is used
as a tool for supplying oil. The eco-friendly bearing
developed by NTN reduces the amount of air
consumed, thus reducing the whistling noise of the
flowing air. The mechanism used in this type of bearing
is as follows: the centrifugal force of the bearing inner
ring feeds a small amount of oil from the nozzle to the
raceway surface of the bearing along the tapered
surface. (Figs. 8.8 and 8.10).

Since the function of the compressed air is only to

deliver lubricating oil to the cavity of the inner ring, a
large quantity of air is not required. In addition, since
the air used to supply the oil is released between the
tapered surfaces, the whistling noise of air is also
reduced.
When the eco-friendly bearing is employed, the noise
is reduced by 6 to 8 dBA.
Example:
In the high-speed region in excess of 10,000 min-1,
noise is reduced by 6 to 8 dBA (Fig. 8.11).

Test conditions
5S-2LA-HSFL020 (eco-friendly bearing)
5S-2LA-HSF020
(10015024, 2 rows)
20,000 min-1
2.5 kN (constant pressure preloading)

Test bearing

Air-oil
Shaft speed
Preload
120

Air-oil

Eco-friendly nozzle

Noise valuedBA

Fig. 8.7 Standard nozzle

HSFL type
HSF type

110
100
90
80
70
60

5000

10000

15000

20000

Shaft speedmin-1
Internal specification
of HSE type
Eco-friendly
specification

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

2.5

dmn value106

Fig. 8.11 Comparison of noise values

Fig. 8.8 Eco-friendly type nozzle

Air-oil

The eco-friendly bearing is particularly good for

reducing screeching noise. The high-frequency
component of the noise generated at high speeds is
well attenuated. The reason for this is as follows: when
the air jet emitted from the standard nozzle hits the
rolling elements, a high-pitched noise is generated; in
contrast, the eco-friendly nozzle does not emit air on
the rolling elements, which reduces screeching noise.

Fig. 8.9 Current bearing N10HS type

Air-oil

Eco-friendly nozzle
Internal specification
of N10HSR type
Eco-friendly
specification

14
4050 Hz
MAG
dBV
20 dB/
-46
0

Fig. 8.10 ULTAGE N10HSL type

Bearing5S-HSC020
Number of balls37
Shaft speed14,000 min-1

PWR SP A

han

LIN

10kH

Fig. 8.12 Frequency characteristics of bearing noise

(standard nozzle)

53