Hybrid bearing

Hybrid bearings are special rolling bearings that use a combination of materials to improve the performance and service life of the bearing. Typically, hybrid bearings consist of an inner and outer ring and rolling elements, whereby either ceramic or plastic elements are used as rolling elements, while the rings are usually made of steel.

The use of ceramic or plastic rolling elements offers several advantages over conventional steel rolling elements:

1. Lower weight: Ceramic or plastic rolling elements are lighter than steel, which leads to a reduction in rotating masses and thus contributes to improved bearing dynamics and efficiency.
2. Higher speeds: Due to their lower density and better surface quality, ceramic or plastic rolling elements enable higher speeds compared to steel rolling elements.
3. Corrosion resistance: Ceramic and plastic rolling elements are less sensitive to corrosion than steel, which improves the service life of the bearing, particularly in damp or corrosive environments.
4. Less friction: Due to their smoother surface and lower density, ceramic or plastic rolling elements generate less friction and therefore contribute to more efficient energy transfer.

Hybrid bearings are often used in high-performance applications such as aerospace, motorsport, high-speed machinery and applications that demand high levels of precision, speed and reliability. By combining materials, hybrid bearings offer an optimal balance between performance, durability and reliability, making them a preferred choice in many demanding applications.