Slim storage for demanding applications

Rodriguez has more than 250 different types of thin-ring bearings in the REALI-SLIM® series. (Image: Rodriguez GmbH)

Small, lightweight, slim, and yet extremely robust: Kaydon thin ring bearings from Rodriguez are the right choice for all applications in machinery and plant engineering that rely on compact design, low weight, and miniaturization. Rodriguez will present these and other solutions from the precision bearing and linear technology sectors at Hannover Messe from April 22 to 26, 2024.

Rodriguez has been successfully distributing more than 250 different types of thin ring bearings from the Kaydon REALI-SLIM® series for decades. Compared to standard bearings, these slim all-rounders often save more than 80% of space and weight, while providing comparable performance and precision. They are used in demanding applications including aerospace, medical technology, robotics, semiconductor manufacturing, oil and gas industry, satellite and radar systems, as well as packaging and machine tools.

Large bore diameter – small cross-section

In thin ring bearings, more and smaller rolling elements distributed over a larger surface area than in standard ball bearings provide remarkable load capacity and stiffness. The large bore diameter with a small bearing cross-section saves weight, and at the same time, air lines, hydraulic lines, electrical wiring, shafts, or slip rings can pass through the bore. Each series of REALI-SLIM® thin ring bearings is based on a consistent, small cross-section across all sizes, which remains constant as the bore diameter increases. Thanks to this design, solid shafts can be replaced by hollow shafts. Often, a REALI-SLIM® thin ring bearing in four-point contact design can even replace two ball bearings.

As an even slimmer solution, Rodriguez offers ULTRA-SLIM® thin ring bearings. These corrosion-resistant and vacuum-compatible lightweight bearings consist of stainless steel rings and ceramic balls and impress with diameters from 35 to 200 mm, featuring an especially small cross-section of only 2.5 to 3 mm. These bearings are available as Type C (deep groove ball bearings), A (angular contact ball bearings), and X (four-point contact bearings).

Metric and hybrid thin ring bearings

Thin ring bearings in metric design simplify calculations, are lightweight like all Rodriguez thin ring bearings, and have a small cross-section. For use in vacuum or cleanroom environments, especially corrosion-resistant hybrid thin ring bearings with ceramic balls are suitable.

The experts at Rodriguez reliably advise on the selection and assembly of the appropriate bearing. Custom modifications are also possible.