Technical Resources
Tolerance Tables
Tolerance Tables
Bearing tolerances refer to three aspects of accuracy: external dimensional accuracy, machining accuracy, and running accuracy.
Dimensional Accuracy
Dimensional accuracy is a measure of the bearing's external dimensions, for example bore diameter (d), outer diameter (D), inner ring width (B), and outer ring width (C). The difference between an actual bearing dimension and the nominal or target value is called the dimensional deviation. The most commonly used measures are the single plane mean bore and outer diameter deviations (Admp and ADmp), and the inner and outer ring width deviations (ABs and ACs). These values are governed by industry standard tolerances. Dimensional accuracy is important for determining shaft and housing fits.
Machining Accuracy
Machining (or form) accuracy measures the variation in the above example dimensions when a series of measurements is taken on a single bearing and compared to one other. The most common measures are single radial plane bore and outside diameter variation (Vdp and VDp), mean single plane bore and outside diameter variation (Vdmp and VDmp), and inner and outer ring width variation (VBs and VCs). Variation refers to the difference between the largest and smallest measurements in a series, while mean variation refers to the average difference between consecutive measurements.
Machining accuracy reflects the precision of the manufacturing process and is an important consideration when recommending tolerances for shafts and housings.
Running Accuracy
Running accuracy (or runout) is a measure of the degree of eccentricity (for radial runout) and squareness (for bore and O.D. with side face) of the bearing.
Inner and outer ring radial runout (Kia and Kea) are the measures most often used. Running accuracy is important to keep excess vibration and misalignment of the assembly at a minimum.
ISO/ABMA/JIS Tolerance Classes
Allowable error limitations for the three areas of bearing accuracy have been internationally standardized for many years as tolerance classes. Each tolerance class specifies a group of limits for all the measures of accuracy (varying in proportion to the bearing size). The most recognized standards are compared in the table below (note that each column represents a set of equivalent classes). For the ISO, JIS, and DiN standards, bearings with standard accuracy are classified as class 0. This is then followed by class 6. From there on, decreasing class numbers denote progressively improving accuracy. ABMA or inch-series tapered roller bearings follow a unique but similar tolerance class system.