FAG Self-Aligning Roller Bearings’ Types, Specs & Buying Tips

What Are Self-Aligning (Spherical) Roller Bearings?

Self-aligning roller bearings—also known as spherical roller bearings—are specifically designed to compensate for angular misalignment and shaft deflection while carrying radial and axial loads. This makes them ideal for applications where precision alignment isn’t always possible.

Key benefits of FAG self-aligning roller bearings:

Dual-row design for load balancing
High tolerance for shaft misalignment
Superior fatigue strength
Heat and contamination resistance
Long service life under continuous operation

Common FAG Bearing Types & Series

FAG offers a broad range of self-aligning roller bearings, each tailored to specific applications. Below are some of the most popular series:

1. FAG 22200 Series – Compact & Versatile

Ideal for general-purpose heavy machinery
Available with cylindrical or tapered bores
Often paired with adapter sleeves for easy mounting

Example:
🔹 FAG 22220-E1-K
→ Tapered bore, high radial load capacity, used in gearboxes and industrial motors.

2. FAG 22300 Series – For High-Vibration Applications

Larger rollers for heavy-duty use
Designed to withstand shocks and extreme vibration
Common in crushers, screens, and vibrating machinery

Example:
🔹 FAG 22328-E1-T41D
→ Special T41D design for vibration resistance; used in mining and quarry equipment.

3. FAG 23100 & 23000 Series – For High Load + Misalignment

Superior misalignment tolerance
Used in cement mills, conveyors, and large gearboxes
Higher axial load handling than 22200 series

Example:
🔹 FAG 23140-E1A-K-M-C3
→ With C3 clearance for thermal expansion; ideal for kiln support rollers.

4. FAG 24000 & 24100 Series – Ultra Heavy-Duty Applications

Widest roller and cage profiles
Handle the most extreme radial and axial loads
Used in large mining and steel applications

Example:
🔹 FAG 24040-E1
→ Compact heavy-duty bearing; common in mining conveyors and earthmovers.

📐 Understanding Key Specs

When choosing a FAG self-aligning roller bearing, pay attention to the following specifications:

Spec	Meaning
Bore Size (mm)	Internal diameter of the bearing
Bore Type	Cylindrical or tapered (K = tapered bore)
Clearance (C3, C4)	Internal space to account for expansion and load
Cage Material	Steel, brass, or polyamide for specific uses
Sealing Options	Open, sealed, or shielded depending on environment

Pro Tip: For hot-running machines or where shaft expansion occurs, choose a C3 clearance bearing.

🛒 Buying Tips for FAG Self-Aligning Roller Bearings

✅ 1. Know Your Load Conditions

Check both radial and axial load requirements. Heavy axial loads? Go for 23000 or 23100 series.

✅ 2. Match Your Misalignment Range

The more shaft misalignment you expect, the more benefit you get from the self-aligning design.

✅ 3. Choose the Right Fit: Cylindrical vs. Tapered Bore

Tapered bores (marked “K”) allow easier mounting on adapter sleeves—perfect for shafting systems.

✅ 4. Don’t Forget the Environment

For dusty, wet, or high-vibration conditions, look for sealed or T41D variants with special heat treatment.

✅ 5. Buy from Authorized Distributors

Avoid counterfeit bearings. Work with authorized FAG partners to ensure authentic, warrantied products.

🌍 Industries That Rely on FAG Spherical Roller Bearings

🏗️ Construction & Earthmoving
🏭 Cement & Mining
⚙️ Steel & Foundry
🌬️ Wind & Energy
📦 Bulk Handling Systems

📦 Ready to Buy FAG Self-Aligning Roller Bearings?

We are a trusted supplier of genuine FAG spherical roller bearings with global shipping, competitive pricing, and full technical support.

As experienced professionals in the bearing industry for many years, we have always been committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products and the most satisfactory services. Through collaborations with top brands such as SKF, TIMKEN, FAG, THK, and others, we have not only established a wide range of product lines but also accumulated rich industry experience and technical knowledge. For more information, Need help selecting the right model? Contact us today for a free quote, bearing datasheet, or professional consultation，pls mail to crystal@wsbearing.com.