C-Type Deep Groove ball Thin Section Bearings

As industries continue to prioritize high precision and lightweight design, thin section bearings have become essential components across robotics, medical devices, optical instruments, aerospace, and more. Among them, the C-type deep groove ball thin section bearing is the most common and versatile structure, offering an optimal balance of compactness, load capacity, and stability.
What Are Thin Section Bearings?
Thin section bearings are precision bearings characterized by a very small cross-sectional thickness relative to their inner and outer diameters. These bearings maintain a constant cross-section regardless of bore size, offering the following key advantages over standard bearings:
Space-Saving:Ideal for compact and space-constrained assemblies
Lightweight Construction:Reduces overall system weight and enhances energy efficiency
Low Friction & Low Inertia:Supports high-speed operation and precise motion control
High Rotational Accuracy: Suitable for applications requiring superior concentricity and repeatability
Structural Features of C-Type Thin Section Bearings
The C-type bearing is a single-row deep groove ball bearing with an ultra-deep raceway design. The groove depth is approximately 25% of the ball diameter, enhancing both radial load capacity and operational stability.
Assembly Methods:
Eccentric Ball Insertion: The inner ring is eccentrically fitted into the outer ring, followed by ball insertion and realignment before installing the cage.
Ball Hole (Full Complement): Ball holes are machined on one or both sides to insert more balls, improving load capacity.
Note: While ball-hole designs offer higher load capacity, they may compromise axial load stability due to discontinuous contact at the ball insertion points.
Radial Clearance & Load Capacity
The radial clearance of C-type thin section bearings plays a critical role in performance:
Minimal Clearance: Delivers optimal performance in high-precision applications
Standard Clearance: Accommodates interference fits and compensates for thermal expansion
Extended Clearance: Allows for increased contact angles, enabling the bearing to function similarly to an angular contact bearing—suitable for higher thrust loads. However, axial displacement should be controlled using matched bearings of the same type under alternating axial loads.
Load Capacity Overview:
Without Ball Hole: Supports both radial and bidirectional axial loads within clearance limits
With Ball Hole: Reduced axial load capacity, especially on the side with the insertion hole
Application Advantages of Deep Groove ball Thin Section Bearings
Combining the benefits of deep groove geometry and constant cross-section, C-type thin section bearings offer a range of practical advantages:
Feature | Description |
High Space Efficiency | Fits seamlessly into compact mechanical designs |
Lightweight | Reduces system inertia, improves energy performance |
Smooth Operation | Low friction and noise; ideal for high-speed movement |
Multidirectional Load Handling | Supports both radial and axial loads (in select designs) |
Standardized Design | Simplifies integration and replacement |
High Precision | Meets strict requirements of aerospace, robotics, and medical fields |
Conclusion
The C-type deep groove ball thin section bearing stands out as a high-performance, space-efficient solution across numerous engineering applications. Its compact structure and excellent load-handling capabilities make it ideal for achieving lightweight, reliable operation in robotic joints, automation systems, medical equipment, and aerospace components.
For detailed specifications, CAD drawings, or application guidance, please contact our technical team for expert support.