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Ceramic Ball Bearing has a much lower coefficient of friction and will support loads at higher speeds than standard steel bearings
Advantages of a Ceramic Ball Bearing
Ceramic Ball Bearing has a much lower coefficient of friction and will support loads at higher speeds than standard steel bearings. They are also insensitive to poor lubrication and have a lower operating temperature, resulting in an extended grease service life and optimum performance. Ceramics are non-porous, nonmagnetic, and non-corrosive. They are 60% lighter than steel and can spin 80% faster while requiring minimal lubrication. They are also insensitive to electrical currents and can operate in high humidity and extreme temperatures.
MRC Hybrid ceramic bearings combine traditional 52100 steel rings precision matched with silicon nitride (ceramic) balls. This combination of dissimilar materials minimizes cold welding and adhesive wear between the bearing race and the ball, making hybrid ceramic bearings ideal for applications requiring higher load capacity, lower friction, and longer life. This includes electric motors, aerospace applications, high-performance racing vehicles, and laboratory equipment.
Standard steel bearings are susceptible to heat, causing them to expand and increase the amount of friction they create. However, ceramic bearings are made to withstand this kind of impact, and they don't experience the expansion issues that can cause them to lose their precision and efficiency.
As a result, they can handle higher speeds with greater stability and can be used in environments that are more hostile to standard bearings, such as in hot weather and the presence of chemicals.
Aside from being much harder than steel, ceramic bearings also produce less friction and are insensitive to contamination. The ceramic balls help to insulate the steel races, which reduces the abrasiveness of the environment within the bearing. This allows them to be run with light contact seals and optimized lubrication, which increases the efficiency of the bearing and extends its life.
According to CeramicSpeed's senior technical & sales education specialist, Paul Sollenberger, ceramic bearings can save the average cyclist in the realm of 6-9 watts across a full bike by using them in their hubs, pulley wheels, and bottom bracket. This is because they reduce the friction generated between your chain and the bearings, which helps you to ride further with the same energy.
The ABEC rating system shows how precise and efficient a bearing is, but it's important to note that there are many factors to consider when comparing a ceramic bearing with a standard steel bearing. The most significant differences are in the lubrication, which can make or break your bearings; the amount of power lost due to friction; and how much the bearings move. Bearings with a higher ABEC rating will be more expensive, but they'll typically have a lower 'friction' number than those with a lower ABEC rating. They will also be more durable and resistant to corrosion. Ultimately, it is up to the rider to decide which level of precision and durability they require in their bearings.