Industrial ball bearings have a plethora of practical uses. In any instance where you need a simple or complex machine or its parts to spin, slide or revolve smoothly, use ball bearings to facilitate the necessary motion. They allow materials which do not move easily together to achieve a graceful relationship.

There are various applications for using these simple devices. If you work with machinery or build or repair wheeled sports equipment, industrial ball bearings are a necessity. Even in an office, sitting at your desk, there are small ways in which they can help you keep your business operating efficiently. Find ball bearing solutions in such diverse fields as:

1. Steel or ceramic ball bearings for sports equipment,
2. Steel ball bearings for use in industrial machinery, and
3. Ball bearing drawer slides for any office.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy ball bearings for your recreational sports store

Skateboards, in-line skates and other products have the need of miniature ball bearings for their operation. If you run a store and/or repair shop for these items, supplying yourself with ball bearings ensures that you have the necessary means of repairing or replacing damaged wheel assemblies. Keep your skateboard and skate customers coming back by being prepared for their skating needs.

I recommend: Stock your business with several ball bearing sizes by checking out options at VXB or Sunray, Inc.

Have replacement ball bearings on hand for machine equipment

Lots of machines in various industries require stainless steel ball bearings for their continued operation. Everything from engines to shop tools will break down without the right bearing parts. Keep your devices in proper working order by making sure you have spherical ball bearing supplies on hand.

I recommend: Consider whether Small Parts, Inc., Bearing Works or National Precision have the right supplies for your needs. Each company has several types, including different sizes, materials and shapes like spherical ball bearing products.

Keep your office in mind and use ball bearing slides for your desk drawers

It's something you probably never think about, but your desk drawers, if working properly, open pretty easily. Unlike older drawers on tracks, modern ones use bearings to slide effortlessly. If your office is in need of new desk or filing cabinet drawers, or you just need new bearing tracks, outfit your own and your employees' desks with the right products.

I recommend: Rockler and GlideRite are just two ball bearing companies that can supply you with the right ball bearing drawer slides for your office. See which works best with your business.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many of the machines and devices mentioned in this guide can be fairly complex. Although you may have the right ball bearings for your replacement or repair needs, consider finding a professional to do any installations unless you're an expert in the construction of the intended machine to be worked on. That way, you avoid getting in over your head.