Full complement silicon nitride deep groove ball bearing with cage-less construction for specialized high-temperature, corrosion-resistant, and electrically insulating applications.
The CE-6001-Si3N4-V is a full ceramic deep groove ball bearing featuring Si₃N₄ (silicon nitride) rings and balls. The "-V" suffix designates a full complement (cage-less) configuration. This specific architecture accommodates more Si₃N₄ rolling elements than a comparable caged design, potentially increasing radial load capacity. By eliminating the polymer or metal cage, it also removes cage-related wear and temperature limitations.
The bearing follows the standard 6001 boundary dimensions of 12×28×8 mm, allowing dimensional compatibility with standard 6001 housings. However, because ceramic bearings differ significantly from steel in thermal expansion, load characteristics, and fit requirements, engineering review is required prior to direct replacement.

Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|
| Bearing No. | CE-6001-Si3N4-V |
| Bearing Type | Deep Groove Ball Bearing (Full Ceramic, Full Complement) |
| Rings & Balls Material | Si₃N₄ (Silicon Nitride) |
| Cage Type | Full Complement (Cage-less) |
| Seal Type | Open |
| Bore Diameter (d) | 12 mm |
| Outside Diameter (D) | 28 mm |
| Width (B) | 8 mm |
| Chamfer Radius (r) | 0.3 mm (minimum) |
| Mounting Dimension (da / Da / ra) | 14 mm (min) / 26 mm (max) / 0.3 mm (max) |
| Reference Weight | ~12 g (typical) |
| Maximum Speed | Application-dependent (due to cage-less friction) |
| Temperature Range | -100°C to +400°C (Requires engineering verification) |
| Precision Class | ISO Normal (P0) standard; higher grades available |
*Load ratings are provided as reference values. Actual rated capacities for cage-less configurations must be verified with TOJO engineering based on specific ball counts, geometry, and operating conditions.
Key Features & Engineering Notes
Full Complement Cage-less Design
Accommodates more balls than caged designs, potentially increasing radial capacity. However, direct ball-to-ball contact may increase friction and heat generation. Operating speed and lubrication must be strictly evaluated based on the application.
Silicon Nitride Material Properties
Si₃N₄ provides high hardness, low density, and excellent corrosion resistance. It is completely non-magnetic and electrically insulating, preventing arcing damage in sensitive equipment.
High-Temperature Application Capability
The absence of a polymer cage prevents cage degradation at elevated temperatures. However, the actual temperature limit depends on thermal expansion, internal clearance, and the surrounding structure. High-temperature applications require engineering verification.
Selected Dry-Running
The Si₃N₄ construction can support selected dry-running applications where conventional lubricants are unsuitable. Actual suitability depends heavily on load, speed, and required service life.
Typical Applications
● High-Temperature Equipment — selected furnace, kiln, and heat-treatment line positions where polymer cages fail.
● Aerospace Equipment — selected lightweight actuators and specialized mechanisms requiring non-magnetic or electrically insulating components.
● Semiconductor & Cleanroom — wafer handling and vacuum equipment where non-magnetic and non-conductive parts are mandatory.
● Precision Equipment — selected positioning and motion-control mechanisms requiring dimensional stability and electrical insulation.
Application-Specific Customization
TOJO BEARING COMPANY specializes in special-material bearing development. If the standard CE-6001-Si3N4-V configuration does not perfectly match your equipment, our engineering team can evaluate the following:
Ball Size & Quantity
Configuration & Fit Requirements
Internal Clearance (C3 / C4)
Precision Grade Adjustments
Specialized Lubrication
High-Temp Solutions (upon evaluation)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this bearing directly replace a standard 6001 steel bearing?
The CE-6001-Si3N4-V follows the standard 6001 boundary dimensions of 12×28×8 mm. However, ceramic bearings differ from steel bearings in material properties, load characteristics, thermal expansion, and operating requirements. Before replacement, confirm the bearing clearance, shaft and housing fits, load conditions, and operating speed with our engineering team.
What are the limitations of the cage-less (full complement) design?
While a full complement design can increase radial load capacity, the lack of a cage means the balls may rub against each other. This can generate additional friction and heat, generally restricting high-speed capabilities compared to caged bearings. The operating speed must be carefully evaluated based on the lubrication and load conditions.
What is the maximum operating temperature?
The cage-less configuration avoids polymer cage degradation and can be suitable for elevated-temperature applications. However, the actual operating temperature limit depends on bearing materials, dimensional stability, clearance, and operating conditions. Applications approaching 400°C require engineering verification.
Looking for a Customized Silicon Nitride Bearing?
Need a full ceramic bearing for high-temperature, corrosive, vacuum, or electrically sensitive applications? Send TOJO your bearing specifications, operating temperature, load, speed, and application requirements. Our engineering team will review your requirements and provide a technical evaluation and quotation.
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