The full name of the NKIA bearing is "Metric Series Needle Roller Thrust Bearing". In simple terms, it is a type of rolling bearing specifically designed to withstand unidirectional axial loads.
You can think of it as a "precise gasket" specifically designed to counteract strong thrust forces. Its core value lies in: even in a situation where the axial space is extremely limited, it offers a load-bearing capacity and rigidity far exceeding that of traditional thrust ball bearings.
II. Main Features and Advantages
Extremely high axial load-bearing capacity
Reason: The use of needle rollers as the rolling elements. Unlike the "point contact" of thrust ball bearings, the needle rollers have a "line contact" with the raceway, resulting in a larger contact area and thus being able to withstand much greater axial loads.
The extremely small axial cross-sectional height
Reason: The structure is extremely compact and the axial dimension (thickness) is very small. This makes it an ideal choice for applications where there are strict limitations on the axial installation space.
High rigidity and precision
After being subjected to force, it undergoes little deformation and can maintain a very high level of motion accuracy. It is highly suitable for applications requiring precise positioning (such as machine tools).
Lightweighting and Compactification
It helps to reduce the overall weight of the equipment and achieve structural optimization.
III. Structure and Model Identification
An NKIA bearing typically consists of three main components:
Axle ring: It fits with the rotating axis and rotates along with it.
Seat ring: It fits with the fixed bearing seat and remains stationary.
Ball pins and cage assembly: Located between the shaft ring and the seat ring, it is the core component that bears the load. The cage precisely guides and separates the ball pins.
Model example: NKIA 5905
NKIA represents the metric series needle thrust bearings.
59 and 05 are size codes. To determine the specific inner diameter, outer diameter and thickness dimensions, it is necessary to refer to the IKO product manual. Do not calculate the dimensions simply by using the code numbers.
IV. Main Application Scenarios
NKIA bearings were specifically developed to address the contradiction of "small space and large thrust". They are commonly used in the following equipment:
Machine tools:
CNC machine tool tool holder: Supports the feed motion of the tool holder and withstands huge axial cutting forces.
Support for the fixed end of the lead screw: Provides axial positioning and support for the precision lead screw.
Rotary table: Supports the worktable and bears the axial load.
Industrial robots:
The axial support of the robot joints ensures rigidity and accuracy under high loads.
Precision equipment:
Printing machinery, injection molding machines, and the clamping mechanisms of these machines.
Automobile sector:
High-performance transmission, clutch disengagement mechanism, etc.
V. Important Precautions for Selection and Use (Critical!)
Using NKIA bearings is a precise task. The following points are of utmost importance:
Only subjected to unidirectional axial load:
The NKIA bearing can only withstand axial loads and must not bear radial loads. During the design process, deep groove ball bearings and other types of bearings must be used to handle the radial loads.
Extremely high installation requirements:
Parallelism: The installation surfaces of the axle ring and the seat ring must have extremely high parallelism; otherwise, it will lead to uneven load distribution and early damage.
Cleanliness: The installation environment must be clean. Any tiny particles will damage the precise rollers.
Strictly prohibited from direct striking: Only use special tools for assembly, and never use a hammer to strike directly.
Lubrication:
Although anti-rust oil is usually provided at the factory, before installation, the appropriate type and quantity of high-performance lubricating grease must be filled according to the working conditions.
Reference to official sources:
When making the selection, be sure to refer to the latest product samples provided by IKO to obtain precise dimensions, rated load capacity, and allowable rotational speed and other key parameters.
Summary: When should NKIA bearings be considered for use?
NKIA bearings are the ideal choice for your design when it meets the following conditions simultaneously:
There is a huge unidirectional axial thrust.
The axial (thickness) installation space is extremely tight.
High requirements are imposed on the rigidity and accuracy of the system.
The conditions for achieving high-precision installation are in place.
In short, NKIA bearings are a powerful tool for engineers to "make a home in a narrow space", specifically designed to solve the huge axial force support problem in a confined area. If your project has this requirement, it will be the core component for achieving a compact, efficient and highly rigid design.
Combination Bearings
NKIA SERIES
Radial needle roller and single direction axial angular contact
ball bearings
Metric series
Removeable inner ring
For details on part numbers, descriptive suffixes and various technical references, please refer to front of this section.
For engineering or technical information contact your local sales representative or call Distributor Sales (800)523-6572.
