As a critical component in the Schaeffler Group’s power transmission portfolio, FAG Axial Ball Bearings deliver uncompromising performance in applications requiring high thrust load capacity, compact design, and precise axial guidance. Engineered to handle unidirectional or bidirectional forces with minimal friction, these bearings are indispensable in industries ranging from aerospace and robotics to energy and heavy machinery. This comprehensive guide explores FAG’s axial ball bearing technology, highlighting engineering innovations, industry-specific adaptations, and operational advantages that ensure reliability in the most challenging environments.

Engineering Innovations

1. Advanced Raceway Technology

EvoProfile Geometry: Asymmetric groove curvature distributes contact stress evenly, extending fatigue life by 30%.

Superfinishing: Raceway polishing to Ra ≤0.05 μm reduces friction torque by 18%.

2. Material Science Breakthroughs

Cronidur® 30 Steel: High-nitrogen martensitic steel offers 5x corrosion resistance for marine applications.

Polymer Composite Cages: Glass fiber-reinforced PEEK withstands 150°C continuous operation without deformation.

3. Sealing & Lubrication Systems

FAG TripleSeal (TS): Triple-labyrinth design provides IP69K protection against steam and abrasive particles.

Solid Oil Matrix: Polymer-embedded lubricant extends service life to 80,000 hours in sealed units.

Competitive Advantages

1. Load Density & Compactness

Space Savings: 30% thinner than tapered roller thrust bearings at equivalent load ratings.

Dynamic Load Capacity: Up to 320 kN in single-direction designs (ISO 104:2015 standards).

2. Precision & Speed

Running Accuracy: Axial runout ≤8 μm (P4 tolerance class).

dn Value: 750,000+ (mm × RPM) with oil-jet lubrication.

3. Durability Enhancements

L10 Life: 60,000+ hours under continuous thrust loads (3x industry average).

Surface Engineering: FAG Durathon™ coating reduces adhesive wear by 90%.

4. Smart Integration

FAG AxialSense™: Strain gauge-equipped washers measure thrust loads within ±2% accuracy.

Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 data transmission to FAG SmartHub platform.

FAG Axial Ball Bearings represent the pinnacle of thrust-bearing engineering, combining space-efficient design with exceptional load-handling capabilities. From supporting megawatt-scale hydropower turbines to enabling micron-level precision in robotic actuators, these bearings deliver uncompromising performance where axial forces dominate. Backed by Schaeffler’s global technical network and Industry 4.0-ready smart features, FAG empowers industries to achieve unprecedented levels of reliability, efficiency, and sustainability.

Engineer Your Axial Load Solutions with FAG—Where Precision Meets Unyielding Force.

Key Technical Highlights:

Material Science: Cronidur® 30 steel and hybrid ceramic options

Load Density: 30% higher than ISO standard ratings

Smart Monitoring: Integrated strain gauges for real-time load tracking

Extreme Environments: -150°C to +300°C operational range

Sustainability: 95% recyclable construction with CO₂-reducing designs