INA Crossed Roller Bearings: The Ultimate Solution for Precision Rigidity and Rotational Accuracy

Introduction: Redefining Motion Control in Demanding Applications

INA Crossed Roller Bearings (XR Series) represent Schaeffler Group’s pinnacle of rotational precision engineering. Designed for applications demanding near-zero deflection under extreme multi-directional loads, these bearings deliver unmatched rigidity and positional accuracy in compact envelopes. As critical components in robotics, medical imaging, aerospace systems, and high-precision automation, INA’s XR technology transforms theoretical motion control into tangible industrial reliability.

Revolutionary Design Architecture

1. Core Structural Innovation

90° Crossed Roller Matrix:

Alternating orthogonal rollers preloaded to eliminate internal clearance

V-shaped raceways hardened to 60–62 HRC via OPTWAVE® laser hardening

Monolithic Ring Design:

Single-piece outer/inner rings with integral mounting surfaces

Eliminates alignment errors from multi-component assemblies

Roller Geometry:

Precision-ground cylindrical rollers with ±0.5 µm diameter tolerance

Length/diameter ratios optimized for 360° load distribution

Technical Superiority Explained

1. Zero-Clearance Preload Technology

Factory-set 2–5 µm preload eliminates micro-movement

Maintains positional stability under 5g shock loads

Preload categories:

P0: Standard industrial (2–4 µm)

P1: Metrology-grade (<2 µm)

PX: Custom preload optimization

2. Tribological Innovations

Roller End Geometry:

Conical relief + crowned profile prevents edge stressing

Reduces contact pressure by 40% vs flat-end designs

Raceway Superfinishing:

Directional grinding pattern (Ra 0.1 µm) creates micro-reservoirs

Extends relubrication intervals to 20,000 hours

3. Integrated Sealing Systems

Tri-Layer Defense:

Non-contact labyrinth (IP5X dust protection)

Spring-energized PTFE secondary seal

NBR wipers with particle-ejection channels

Cleanroom-Compatible Options:

Vacuum-rated to 10⁻⁶ mbar

Outgassing <10⁻⁴ Torr·L/s

INA Crossed Roller Bearings embody the convergence of materials science, tribology, and digital innovation. By delivering nanometer-level accuracy with kilonewton load capacity, they enable technological breakthroughs from minimally invasive surgery to extraterrestrial exploration. For engineers demanding uncompromising precision in constrained spaces, INA XR Series provides not just components – but foundational motion control solutions that redefine what’s mechanically possible.