Metal bearings may not be a noticeable part of any piece of equipment since they are an internal component, but they help keep all types of machinery running properly and smoothly. Bearings are basically round circular tools that rest between two surfaces that would otherwise rub against each other. The two surfaces will, instead, come into direct contact with the metal ball bearings, which will greatly reduce or completely eliminate the level of friction that occurs between moving parts within any machine. Therefore the bearings extend the life and long-term usefulness of these machines.

Metallic bearings can be found in everything from small household items to large industrial equipment. They come in many different shapes and sizes to fit any specific need. There are a few things you must consider before placing an order for the bearings that your company requires:

1. Do you need a standard metallic bearing or a specialty product such as tri-metal bearings, white metal bearings or powder metal bearings?

2. Will the bearings be used for radial or axial loads?

3. Can the metallic bearing manufacturer provide you with every type of bearing you are seeking?

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

Buy metal bearings from a reputable manufacturer

There are many companies that produce metallic bearings in all shapes and sizes. Businesses that manufacture any type of product that features moving parts usually require a large amount of bearings to keep their assembly lines functioning at full capacity. Work with a good distributor with which you can build a solid business relationship.

I recommend: Purchase bearings from Reid Supply, AST Bearings, The SKF Group or Rexnord Industries.

Order from metal bearing manufacturers that provide specialty products

Every type of bearing serves the same basic purpose, but there are many different kinds of bearings available. Most manufacturing companies provide a wide array of this useful product, which allows your company to purchase everything you need from one source. Deal with either a manufacturer or a distributor that stocks bearings in all shapes and sizes to fulfill your production requirements.

I recommend: Purchase speed metal bearings from Barden/FAG. Order tri-metal bearings from ACL Distribution. High Tech Sintered Metals manufactures powder metal bearings and other specialty products.

Customize an order from metallic bearing companies

Some metal bearing manufacturers will make specialty products to suit a specific need. Turn to them when you need a custom shaped or sized metal based bearing. Depending on your specifications, they can do a one-time special order or produce a large amount of customized bearings for your business.

I recommend: Order customized metallic bearings from Shuster Bearings or Asiatic Bearing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Buy metallic bearings from wholesale providers in order to get the best deal possible when you need to make a bulk purchase.
• •  Try working with a few different metallic bearing firms to determine which company best suits your needs in the realms of customer service, delivery time and product availability.
• •  Determine what composition of metal-based bearing is most useful for you. Choices include stainless steel, chrome steel, hybrids and other heavy duty metals.