Misalignment Compensation: The primary feature is the ability to adjust to static and dynamic angular misalignment without causing damage or excessive wear.
Low Friction and Heat: Due to the loose conformity between the balls and the outer ring raceway, these bearings generate less friction than other types, allowing them to run cooler and extending service life.
Load Capacity: They handle predominantly radial loads and can support light axial loads from both directions.
Design Options: Available with either a cylindrical or tapered bore (suffix K) for mounting with an adapter sleeve, and as open or sealed versions (suffix 2RS).
Leading Manufacturers
SKF (Svenska Kullagerfabriken): A global leader offering a wide range of high-quality, long-life "Explorer" series self-aligning ball bearings suitable for various industrial applications.
Schaeffler Group (FAG/INA): A major precision bearing manufacturer known for their robust designs, including "X-life" bearings with enhanced performance.
NTN: Offers a broad selection of cost-effective and reliable self-aligning ball bearings for general industrial use, with a strong presence in Asia.
NSK: Known for innovation and durability, providing a wide array of self-aligning bearings designed for demanding applications like transmission shafts.
NBC Bearings (National Engineering Industries Ltd): India's leading manufacturer of high-quality self-aligning ball bearings for the domestic market.