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A single letter or number in a bearing code can mean the difference between a bearing that fits and works and one that causes a costly machine shutdown. For industrial buyers and importers, misreading these codes leads to wrong orders, delayed projects, and frustrated customers.
To read spherical roller bearing codes, start with the series (e.g., 222, 223) for size, then the bore code (e.g., 30 for 150mm). Suffixes after the code define critical features: CC for brass cage, K for tapered bore, W33 for lubrication groove, and C3 for internal clearance. Understanding this ensures accurate sourcing and interchangeability.
The bearing number is not a random serial number; it’s a detailed specification sheet in compact form. Mastering this language is a fundamental skill for anyone involved in industrial procurement, from machinery builders to global distributors. Let’s decode this system step by step, from the basic number to the complex suffixes and even the customs codes needed for international trade.
Suffixes are where the true capabilities of a bearing are defined. Two bearings with the same basic number but different suffixes can be completely different parts. Ordering a bearing without the correct suffix often means receiving a part lacking a critical feature, like a lubrication hole or a specific cage, rendering it unusable.
Suffixes for spherical roller bearings1 are letters and numbers added after the basic designation to specify internal design, cage type, internal clearance2, lubrication features, and special tolerances. Common suffixes include C3/C4 (internal clearance2), CC (machined brass cage3), K (tapered bore4 1:12), W33 (lubrication groove5 and holes), and E (reinforced design6). These are essential for correct application.
Suffixes are standardized across much of the industry, though some manufacturers have proprietary ones. They tell you about the bearing’s construction, how it should be mounted, and how it will be maintained. Missing a suffix is like ordering a car without specifying the transmission.
Let’s categorize the most important suffixes for industrial buyers:
1. Internal Clearance Suffixes (C2, C3, C4, C5):
This is arguably the most critical suffix for application suitability. It indicates how much internal space exists between the rollers and raceways.
2. Cage (Retainer) Design Suffixes:
The cage holds the rollers in place. Its material and design affect speed, temperature, and vibration resistance.
3. Mounting and Lubrication Suffixes:
These specify features for installation and maintenance.
4. Design/Internal Modification Suffixes:
Putting it together: An example for a buyer:
A bearing code8 22228 CCK W33 C3 breaks down as:
For an importer like Rajesh, knowing that W33 is needed for most industrial machinery ensures he stocks the correct, maintainable bearing. At FYTZ, we use these standard suffixes, so our bearings (e.g., FYTZ 22228 CCK W33 C3) are fully interchangeable with other brands using the same code, giving our partners confidence in sourcing.
Seeing a number like "22228" or "NJ 2308" can be intimidating. But it’s a logical system. Reading it incorrectly means you might order a bearing with a 28mm bore instead of a 140mm bore, a mistake that is both obvious and costly once the part arrives.
To read roller bearing numbers, identify the bearing type prefix1 (if any), the dimension series2 (two digits), and the bore code. For bore sizes 04 and above, multiply the bore code by 5 to get the bore in mm (e.g., 05 = 25mm, 28 = 140mm). Suffixes follow to specify design details. This system is standardized for metric radial roller bearings.
The basic number (before any suffixes) gives you the bearing’s type, size series, and bore diameter3. This is the core identification. Let’s break down the structure for spherical roller bearings4 and other common roller bearings.
The typical pattern is: [Prefix] [Series Code] [Bore Code]
Step 1: Identify the Type (Prefix or Implied)
Step 2: Decode the Dimension Series (The two or three digits)
The series code tells you the bearing’s proportions—its width and outer diameter relative to its bore. For spherical roller bearings4:
Step 3: Calculate the Bore Diameter
This is the most important step for fit.
Example Breakdowns:
For a machinery manufacturer in Brazil, this skill allows them to verify that the bearing they are designing into a machine (say, a 22324) has the correct bore (120mm) for their shaft. At FYTZ, we train our sales team to confirm these details with clients. When Rajesh sends an inquiry for "bearing 22230", we confirm he needs the 150mm bore version, not a misunderstanding for a 30mm bore. This prevents errors in the global supply chain.
Bearing notation is the full language, encompassing not just the basic number and suffixes, but also precision class designations, manufacturer prefixes, and other markings on the bearing itself. Ignoring the full notation can lead to missing a critical precision requirement or a special material call-out.
Bearing notation is read as a sequence: [Manufacturer Prefix/Series1] [Basic Bearing Number2] [Suffixes]. The basic number gives type and size. Suffixes specify internal design, clearance, seals, etc. Additional markings on the bearing itself may indicate precision class (P5, P6), manufacturer logo, and production lot code for traceability.
Reading bearing notation is about gathering all available information from the catalog and from the physical bearing. This is essential for exact replacement sourcing and for understanding the quality level of the component.
1. The Catalog/Ordering Notation:
This is the full string you see in a price list or on an order. It follows the pattern we’ve discussed. A complex example: FYTZ 22324 CCJA/W33 C3 P5
2. Markings on the Bearing Itself:
Once you have the physical bearing, you can find more data stamped or lasered on it:
3. Special Notations and Their Meanings:
Why this matters for an industrial buyer:
Imagine you are replacing a failed bearing in a critical gearbox. The old bearing is stamped 22218 P5. You could order a standard 22218, but it would be a P0 (normal) precision bearing. Installing it might cause increased vibration, noise, and reduced gear life. The P5 marking is part of the notation you must capture and replicate in your order.
At FYTZ, we clearly mark our bearings. Our P5 and P6 precision spherical roller bearings are marked as such. This allows our distributors and their end customers to verify they have received the specified quality. For Rajesh, when a customer provides a sample bearing, he knows to look for these extra markings and relay them to us to ensure an exact, performance-matched replacement.
For importers, the wrong HS code is a operational disaster. It can cause customs delays2, incorrect duty assessment, and even seizure of goods. Knowing the correct code is as important as knowing the bearing’s technical specifications for smooth international logistics.
The HS (Harmonized System) code for spherical roller bearings is 8482.303. This is the international heading. The full code varies by country and specific bearing size. For example, China’s export code for spherical roller bearings with an outer diameter exceeding 400mm but not exceeding 500mm is 8482.30300.80. Precise coding ensures correct tariffs and smooth customs clearance.
The HS code is a global product classification system used by customs authorities. For bearings, the code becomes more specific based on type and size. Using a generic code can lead to problems.
The Structure of HS Codes for Bearings:
The code is hierarchical. Let’s break down 8482.30300.80 (an example for large bearings from China):
How Size Affects the HS Code:
Many countries, including China, the US, and in the EU, further differentiate bearing codes based on outer diameter. This is because large, heavy-duty bearings often have different duty rates than small, mass-produced ones.
| Typical Size Range (Outer Diameter) | Example HS Code (China Export) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small (≤ 30mm) | 8482.30310 | For miniature bearings. |
| Medium (>30mm and ≤ 400mm) | 8482.30390 | This covers the vast majority of industrial spherical roller bearings (e.g., 222 series, 223 series). |
| Large (>400mm and ≤ 500mm) | 8482.30300.80 | For large machinery like kilns and heavy mills. |
| Extra Large (> 500mm) | 8482.30300.90 | For the largest mining and industrial equipment. |
Why This Matters for Buyers Like Rajesh:
In our business, we provide the correct HS code on all shipping documents. When a client in Egypt imports a container of our bearings, they have one less thing to worry about. For distributors, understanding that the HS code can change based on the bearing’s outer diameter is a key piece of logistical knowledge. It ensures their total landed cost calculations are accurate and their supply chain is reliable.
Mastering spherical roller bearing codes requires parsing the basic number for size, understanding suffixes for critical features (CC, K, W33, C3), reading full notation for precision class, and applying the correct HS code (like 8482.3090) for seamless international procurement.
Understanding the HS code is crucial for importers to avoid customs issues and ensure smooth logistics. ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩
Customs delays can significantly disrupt supply chains, making it vital to understand their causes and solutions. ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩
This code is essential for identifying spherical roller bearings in international trade, impacting tariffs and customs. ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩
Commercial invoices are critical for customs clearance, and understanding their requirements can streamline the import process. ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩
Material marks inform you about the bearing’s composition, affecting durability and performance. ↩ ↩ ↩
Explore the benefits of reinforced designs in bearings for higher load ratings and durability. ↩
Learn how vibration characteristics can influence the selection and performance of bearings. ↩
Get insights into how to interpret bearing codes for better selection and application. ↩
