4 Key Advantages of a Double Row Bearing

(Photo : Arrow Engineering)

Most ball bearings that are used within the engineering world follow the single-row design. This means that they contain just a single row of bearing balls, and this design works well when it is being used for both thrust and radial loads. However there are some circumstances where a single-row design of ball bearing simply isn't the best solution for a job and this is where the double-row bearing becomes the best solution. Like single row bearings, these come in a wide range of sizes and it is very important to ensure that you opt for the right size for your requirements, this is why talking to a company who offers advice on their products like Arrow Engineering makes perfect sense. 

There are 4 key advantages to selecting a double row bearing which we will look at in detail. 

Load ability & Size

The double row bearing has the capacity to withstand an axial load that is bi-directional in any situation where a matched pair of bearing would be needed instead. This makes then a very cost effective product for a number of different applications 

Not only can double row bearings be purchased in a wide range of sizes with something suitable for every type of application they can also be purchased with different inside and outside diameters and also in different widths. 

This type of bearing offers a rigidity and compactness as well as a large radial capacity that can be combined with the availability of a thrust capacity that is moderate in either direction. This means that they have the capacity to carry a load that is considerably higher than those that can be carried by a single row bearing. 

Double row bearings can be purchased with the same outside diameters and bore as a single row bearing but are suitable for use in any situation where the single row bearing load capacity is deemed to be of a level that is not adequate for the application in question. It is worth noting however that in some applications the use of a double ball bearing might reduce the level of flexibility within a design, and this will therefore offer lower levels of performance.  

Self-aligning

Another type of double row bearing that you may well be looking at is the self-aligning bearing. This type of bearing is designed for those applications where there is the chance that a misalignment may occur. They have been designed in such a way that they have the ability to be able to realign themselves to the correct position and also get rid of any of the unwanted stress that may occur on the bearing assembly itself. The duplex bearing, which is not technically a double row bearing, features two distinct sets of raceways. These are formed as a result of placing two tapered roller bearings or two contact ball bearings together to form a pair. 

Robust 

It stands to reason that with a double row of ball bearings this type of bearing is much more robust than its single row counterpart. This means that it is likely to last a little longer whilst in place, with less downtime for any repair work that may be needed and this in turn means that they should cost you less, both through cost of parts and also maintenance costs. 

Reduce friction 

Because the double row bearing is a self-guided bearing there is a significant reduction in the friction that is created. This is important over time, as it can help to keep the machinery surrounding the bearing in better condition, again reducing the need for repair or maintenance work that can be costly both in terms of price and downtime. 

Now we've outlined some of the benefits of double row bearings, you might be convinced that these could be well-suited for your needs. If not, it may be worth consulting a professional company that can go through your options and needs with you.