Deep groove ball bearings are among the most widely used bearing types. Their simple, robust design makes them suitable for high-speed operation while requiring relatively little maintenance.
The deep raceway grooves closely match the shape of the balls, allowing these bearings to support radial loads as well as moderate axial loads in both directions. They are used in applications ranging from electric motors, pumps and gearboxes to agricultural machinery, power tools and household appliances.
Single-Row Deep Groove Ball Bearings
Single-row deep groove ball bearings are the most common design. They are non-separable, easy to install and available in an extensive range of metric and imperial sizes.
Depending on the application, they can be supplied in three main configurations:
- Open bearings have no shields or seals. They are suitable for clean environments or applications where lubrication is supplied separately.
- Shielded bearings use non-contact metal shields to help retain grease and protect against larger particles. Their low-friction design makes them well suited to higher operating speeds.
- Sealed bearings use contact or low-friction seals to provide greater protection against dust, dirt and moisture. The additional protection may result in slightly more friction than a shielded bearing.
Bearings fitted with shields or seals on both sides are normally supplied pre-lubricated. In suitable operating conditions, they are generally considered lubricated for life and do not require routine relubrication.
What Do Bearing Suffix Codes Mean?
The letters and numbers following a bearing reference indicate features such as seals, shields or internal clearance.
Common seal and shield suffixes include:
Shields on Both Sides
- 2Z
- ZZ
Shield on One Side
- Z
Seals on Both Sides
- 2RS
- 2RS1
- 2RSH
- 2RSR
- LLU
- DDU
Seal on One Side
- RS
- RS1
- RSH
- LU
- DU
Suffix codes vary between manufacturers. Two bearings may have different suffixes but provide a similar sealing arrangement, so always check the manufacturer’s specification before ordering.
Sealed or Shielded: Which Should You Choose?
The correct option depends on the operating environment:
- Choose an open bearing for a clean application where external lubrication is available.
- Choose a shielded bearing when low friction and higher speed are priorities and only limited protection from contamination is required.
- Choose a sealed bearing for improved protection in dusty, dirty or damp environments.
Operating speed, temperature, load and exposure to contaminants should all be considered when selecting a bearing.
Double-Row Deep Groove Ball Bearings
Double-row deep groove ball bearings provide greater radial load capacity and a more rigid bearing arrangement than comparable single-row designs.
These bearings are sensitive to misalignment, so the shaft and housing must be accurately aligned. Their ability to carry axial load depends on the individual bearing design, particularly where filling slots are used. Always refer to the manufacturer’s technical data before selecting a double-row bearing.
Choosing the Correct Deep Groove Ball Bearing
Before ordering, check the following:
- Inside diameter, outside diameter and width
- Bearing reference number
- Open, sealed or shielded construction
- Required internal clearance, such as C3
- Expected radial and axial loads
- Operating speed and temperature
- Exposure to dust, moisture or other contaminants
- Manufacturer-specific suffix codes
You can browse our full range of deep groove ball bearings, including open, sealed and shielded designs from leading bearing manufacturers.
If you are unsure which bearing you need, search using the existing bearing reference or enter the inside diameter, outside diameter and width into our bearing search. Alternatively, contact Bearing King for help identifying a suitable replacement.
