Hybrid Bearings
SKF Hybrid Ceramic Bearings combine steel rings with ceramic rolling elements made of silicon nitride. These bearings offer electrical insulation and superior durability under challenging conditions.
Explore the technical specifications in this section to see how you can benefit from these performance-enhancing bearings. They not only address industry-specific challenges such as electrification and speed but also unlock new possibilities in performance and innovation



Features and Benefits
Compared to bearings with steel rolling elements of the same size, the benefits of hybrid bearings include:
- Protection against electrical discharge damage
Hybrid bearings are non-conductive, making them suitable for applications where electrical currents are present, such as AC and DC motors and generators. - Higher speed capability
The density of the silicon nitride rolling element is 60% lower than that of a rolling element made of bearing steel of the same size. The lower weight and inertia translate into higher speed capability and superior performance in quick start-stop operations. - Longer service life
Hybrid bearings generate less frictional heat, especially at high speeds, extending bearing life and increasing relubrication intervals. - High wear resistance
Silicon nitride rolling elements have a higher hardness, making hybrid bearings suitable for demanding conditions and contaminated environments. - High bearing stiffness
With a high modulus of elasticity, hybrid bearings offer increased bearing stiffness. - Reduced risk of smearing
Even under poor lubrication conditions, such as at high speeds and accelerations, or with inadequate hydrodynamic film, the risk of smearing between the silicon nitride and steel surfaces is reduced. - Reduced risk of false brinelling
When exposed to vibration, hybrid bearings are significantly less sensitive to the risk of false brinelling (shallow depressions in raceways) between the silicon nitride and steel surfaces. - Less sensitivity to temperature gradients
Silicon nitride rolling elements have a lower thermal expansion coefficient, making them more stable against temperature gradients within the bearing and enabling more accurate preload/clearance control.
The hybrid bearings provided in this section form the core of SKF’s range and represent only a part of the total selection. Other hybrid bearings include:
- Hybrid super-precision bearings (Super-precision bearings)
- Hybrid super-precision angular contact ball bearings
- Hybrid super-precision cylindrical roller bearings
- Hybrid super-precision angular contact thrust ball bearings, single and double direction
- Hybrid angular contact ball bearings
- Hybrid stainless steel deep groove ball bearings
- Bearing units incorporating hybrid bearings
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