How to Read Spherical Roller Bearing Numbers: Series, Cages, Clearance and Precision
View HX spherical roller bearings specifications and request a quote
Spherical roller bearing numbers combine series, bore, cage and clearance information. Tapered bores, adapter sleeves and lubrication details must be confirmed before the replacement is released.
Send the duty point, model or drawing and installation conditions. We will confirm the practical variant before you place an order.
Spherical roller bearings are designed to accommodate misalignment caused by installation error or shaft deflection. They carry high radial loads and can also support axial load in both directions. This guide explains how to interpret common spherical roller bearing designations for sourcing and maintenance decisions.
What does the basic designation mean?
A typical designation begins with 2, which identifies a spherical roller bearing. The following figures describe the width and diameter series, while the final bore code identifies the bore diameter.
| Position | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| First digit | Bearing type: 2 = spherical roller bearing | 2 |
| Next digits | Width and diameter series | 22 |
| Final bore code | For codes from 04 upward, bore = code × 5 mm | 36 = 180 mm |
Common spherical roller bearing series
Common series include 213, 222, 223, 230, 231, 232, 239, 240 and 241. In general, 213 is a compact series, 222 is a medium series, 223 is a heavy series, 230 to 232 are wider series, and 240 to 241 are extra-wide series. The final selection must be based on load, speed, mounting space and operating conditions.
Cage and internal design suffixes
- EA: high-load design with a pressed-steel cage.
- CA: high-load design with a solid brass cage.
- M: machined copper-alloy cage in a CA-type design.
Mounting, lubrication, clearance and precision
- K: tapered bore, 1:12 taper.
- K30: tapered bore, 1:30 taper.
- E4: lubrication groove and holes in the outer ring.
- C3, C4, C5: progressively larger radial internal clearance than normal clearance.
- P6, P5, P4: ISO precision classes, with lower class numbers indicating higher precision.
Example: 22236EAE4
2 identifies a spherical roller bearing. 22 is the series. 36 indicates a 180 mm bore (36 × 5 mm). EA identifies a high-load pressed-steel-cage design, and E4 means the outer ring has a lubrication groove and holes.
FAQ
Does every spherical roller bearing use the same suffix system?
No. Suffix conventions can differ by manufacturer and design revision. Confirm the manufacturer data sheet before final specification.
Can a C3 bearing replace a normal-clearance bearing?
Only after checking fit, temperature, speed and internal clearance requirements. Clearance affects operating performance and service life.
Need help matching a bearing number to your equipment? View HX spherical roller bearing options or request a technical quotation.
Technical FAQ
What should I check after reading the number?
Check outside diameter, width, bore type, cage, clearance, load rating and mounting method against the old bearing and drawing.
Can a spherical bearing compensate for any misalignment?
It accommodates defined misalignment within its design limits. Excessive shaft deflection or poor fits still cause premature failure.
Long-tail keywords: spherical roller bearing number guide, CA CC bearing code, bearing clearance and precision, mining bearing replacement