Full complement silicon nitride deep groove ball bearing designed for selected high-temperature, corrosive, and electrically sensitive applications.
The CE-6301-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 rolling elements than a comparable caged design. By eliminating the polymer or metal cage, it removes cage-related wear limitations, making it suitable for specialized engineering evaluation.
The bearing follows the standard 6301 boundary dimensions of 12×37×12 mm, allowing dimensional compatibility with standard 6301 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.
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Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|
| Bearing No. | CE-6301-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) | 37 mm |
| Width (B) | 12 mm |
| Chamfer Radius (r) | 1.0 mm (minimum) |
| Mounting Dimension (da / Da / ra) | 17.5 mm (min) / 31.5 mm (max) / 1.0 mm (max) |
| Reference Weight | ~53 g (typical) |
| Operating Temperature | Application-dependent; temperatures up to 400°C require engineering evaluation |
| Maximum Speed | Application-dependent (due to cage-less friction) |
| Precision Class | ISO Normal (P0) standard; higher grades available |
Key Features & Engineering Notes
Full Complement Cage-less Design
The increased number of rolling elements may improve load distribution under suitable operating conditions. However, actual load capacity depends on ball size, quantity, internal geometry, and contact conditions. Additional ball-to-ball friction may also limit operating speed.
Silicon Nitride Material Properties
Si₃N₄ provides high hardness, low density, and excellent corrosion resistance. It is non-magnetic and electrically insulating, helping prevent electrical current passage and reducing the risk of electrical discharge damage in suitable equipment applications.
High-Temperature Capability
The absence of a polymer cage prevents cage degradation. However, the actual operating temperature limit depends on bearing materials, dimensional stability, clearance, and surrounding structure. High-temperature operation requires comprehensive engineering evaluation.
Selected Lubrication-Free Applications
The silicon nitride construction may be considered for selected applications where conventional lubricants are restricted or unsuitable. However, cage-less operation introduces additional ball-to-ball contact, which can affect friction, heat generation, and service life. Dry-running suitability must be evaluated based on load, speed, temperature, and required service life.
Typical Applications
● High-Temperature Equipment — Selected furnace, kiln, and heat-treatment line positions where polymer cages are unsuitable.
● Aerospace Equipment — Selected lightweight actuators and specialized mechanisms requiring non-magnetic or electrically insulating bearing components.
● Semiconductor & Cleanroom — Selected wafer handling, vacuum equipment, and specialized mechanisms requiring non-magnetic and electrically insulating bearing components. (Note: Open cage-less bearings require specific evaluation for vacuum outgassing and particle generation).
● 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-6301-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)
*Internal clearance (C3/C4) modifications are subject to design feasibility and engineering evaluation specific to ceramic material characteristics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this bearing directly replace a standard 6301 steel bearing?
The CE-6301-Si3N4-V follows the standard 6301 boundary dimensions of 12×37×12 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 accommodate more balls and potentially improve load distribution, 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. 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 Application-Specific Engineering?
Send TOJO your operating conditions, load, and speed requirements. Our engineering team will evaluate your cage-less ceramic bearing application and provide a technical recommendation and quotation.
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