What are the differences between the different types of gearbox bearings?

Before choosing a gearbox bearing, you need to understand the differences between the different types of bearings and the importance of maintaining them properly.

Integrated bearings
Integrated gearbox bearings have a number of benefits. The integration of multiple components is reduced, and they display better performance and power density. If the gearbox is made of tapered or cylindrical planet bearings, you can consider this option. If not, you can check out case carburized design instead. These new technologies may help you avoid high-speed bearing damage.

Tapered roller bearings
The basic components of tapered roller bearings are the cup and the cone assembly. The cup is the outer ring and the cone assembly includes the rollers and the cage. Other parts of tapered roller bearings are cage and gear reducers. Each of these parts plays an important role in the design and manufacture of tapered roller bearings.

In case of a separable component, the mount setting must be controlled externally by means of a component spacer. This spacer is machined by the bearing supplier or installer. However, mounting settings should be controlled correctly or the bearing can experience excessive stress or unloaded conditions inside the bearing. It is important to ensure that the spacer is spaced correctly to prevent damage to the cage and roller.

Black oxide coating
The black oxide coating on gearbox bearings is one of several forms of corrosion protection. It forms on the steel surface of a bearing through a chemical reaction. The reaction occurs in an alkaline aqueous salt solution, operating at 265 to 300o F. It forms an oxide layer on the outer surface of the bearing components and is a blend of FeO and Fe2O3. The coating is usually 1-2 mm thick and is resistant to rust and corrosion.

The special black oxide coating offers a significant level of protection and improves the performance of a bearing. This special treatment increases lubricant adhesion, reduces fretting and micro-spalling, and improves surface properties. The black oxide treatment also provides enhanced chemical and elementary corrosion resistance. In contrast, the untreated steel surface deteriorates more than the black oxidized steel surface. This deterioration is accompanied by a variety of environmental effects.