Bearings needed to build a robot

Pacific International Bearing Sales, specializes in offering high-quality bearings customized to the specific requirements for use in robotics and automation applications.

Robotics are useful in many industries, lowering production costs while improving productivity. The automotive industry has embraced robotics to such an extent that nearly every step of vehicle manufacturing — from welding and assembly to painting and inspection — relies on robotic systems. 

Robotics is not just used in heavy industry. In the medical field, robotic devices execute delicate surgeries that demand more precision than humans can provide. These breakthroughs are not just raising production and lowering costs; they are also expanding the boundaries of what is possible.

The Role of Bearings in Robotics

Angular contact needle roller bearings. Series XZU

INA offers an  alternative to the crossed roller bearing when even more tilting rigidity is required. Series XZU angular contact needle roller bearings have identical external dimensions to crossed roller bearings and are interchangeable. The secret is in the internal design: Two separate raceways provide a support distance which increases rigidity. The needle rollers are precisely guided on the raceways by cages which reduces the friction and provides more space for the lubricating grease.

The role of bearings in robotics is primarily centered around enabling and maintaining the precise movements that robots are known for. Bearings reduce friction between moving parts, which is essential for the smooth operation of robotic joints, arms, and other components that require high levels of precision. This precision is critical in applications ranging from automotive assembly lines, where robots perform thousands of repetitive tasks with consistent accuracy, to medical robots that require exact movements in surgical procedures.

One particular type of bearing that has gained significant traction in the robotics industry is the IKO crossed roller bearing. Known for their ability to handle high radial, axial, and moment loads, crossed roller bearings are especially suited for applications that require high rigidity and accuracy. These bearings are increasingly being used in industrial robots due to their ability to support complex movements without compromising on stability or precision.IKO designs and manufactures a variety of crossed roller bearings to  handle radial, thrust and moment loads simultaneously. IKO crossed roller bearings are of a compact design and feature rollers crossed at right angles between inner and outer rings.

IKO crossed roller bearing are widely used in machine tools, industrial robots and medical equipment because of their high rotational accuracy.

Roller guide options include a cage or separator as well as a full complement design. Both the cage and separator styles offer a small coefficient of friction for high-speed rotation. Full complement bearings handle heavy loads at low speeds.

Sealed and open designs are available. Sealed bearings incorporate synthetic rubber seals to protect against dust, dirt and grease.

According to recent market data, the global market for crossed roller bearings for industrial robots is projected to grow from US$ 176.8 million in 2022 to US$ 234.8 million by 2029, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% during this period. This growth underscores the increasing demand for bearings that can support the sophisticated and precise movements required by modern robotic systems.

The market for bearings is dominated by several key manufacturers, each of whom is recognized for their contributions to the field of robotics. Companies such as THK, Schaeffler Group, Kaydon Corporation (SKF), IKO International, Timken, and NSK are at the forefront of this industry, providing bearings that meet the stringent requirements of modern robotic systems.

For instance, THK and Schaeffler Group are renowned for their high-precision bearings that are used in robotic arms and precision machinery. Similarly, INA and IKO International are recognized for their advanced bearing solutions that cater to a wide range of industrial applications, including robotics.

Types of Bearings Used in Robotics

When it comes to robotics, the choice of bearings can significantly impact the performance, longevity, and precision of the machinery. At PIB Sales, we offer a comprehensive range of bearings specifically engineered to meet the unique demands of robotic applications. Below is an overview of the various types of bearings we provide, each designed to excel in different aspects of robotic operations.

Flexure bearings are unique in their design, using the flexibility of the material to allow for rotational movement. Unlike traditional bearings that rely on rolling elements, flexure bearings enable motion through bending, which results in a frictionless and wear-free operation. These bearings are ideal for applications where precision and minimal maintenance are crucial.

Deep groove ball bearings are among the most commonly used bearings in robotics due to their versatility and reliability. They can handle both radial and axial loads, making them suitable for high-speed operations. These bearings are known for their durability and low maintenance requirements.

Advantages:

• Suitable for applications where rotational speed is a critical factor.
• Capable of managing both radial and axial loads efficiently.

Needle roller bearings are compact bearings that offer a high load-carrying capacity in a small form factor. Due to their small diameter rollers, these bearings are ideal for applications where space is limited but a high load capacity is required.

Specific scenarios:

• Utilized in compact robotic arms where space and weight are constrained.
• Suitable for robots that need to handle high loads in a compact design, such as in assembly lines.

Thrust bearings are designed to handle axial loads, making them essential in applications where the load is primarily in the direction of the shaft. There are two main types: ball thrust bearings and cylindrical roller thrust bearings.

Tapered roller bearings are designed to handle both radial and axial loads, which makes them ideal for robotic joints that undergo complex movements. These bearings are robust and can withstand high loads, making them suitable for heavy-duty robotic applications.

Spherical roller thrust bearings are designed to accommodate misalignments, making them particularly useful in robotic shafts that may experience angular misalignment during operation. Their ability to handle both radial and axial loads makes them versatile in various robotic applications.

Self-aligning ball bearings are designed to handle misalignment between the shaft and the housing. These bearings are particularly useful in applications where large angular misalignments are common, ensuring smooth operation even when components are not perfectly aligned.

At PIB Sales, we understand that the success of your robotic systems depends on the quality and suitability of the bearings you use. Our extensive catalog includes all the bearing types discussed above, each meticulously designed to meet the demands of various robotic applications. Whether you’re building a precision surgical robot, a high-speed manufacturing robot, or a heavy-duty industrial robot, you’ll find the perfect bearing solution in our catalog.

Explore the bearing catalog to find detailed specifications, part numbers, and application examples that match your needs. If you need assistance in selecting the right bearing for your specific application, contact us today. Our team of experts is always available to help guide you to the best choice.