RAS Bearings
Cylindrical Roller Bearings
What are Cylindrical Roller Bearings?
RAS Cylindrical Roller Bearings are engineered in a wide range of designs, dimension series and sizes to meet diverse industrial needs. The standard range includes single-row bearings with a cage, along with single and double-row full complement bearings (without cage). Bearings with a cage are ideal for heavy radial loads at high speeds, while full complement designs are better suited for very heavy radial loads at moderate speeds.
As standard, RAS single-row cylindrical roller bearings are manufactured with normal radial internal clearance, with many options also available in C3 clearance. On request, bearings can be supplied with C2 (smaller), C4 (greater), or special reduced clearances tailored to specific applications. These special clearances fall within or between standard clearance ranges.
All separable components of bearings with standard or reduced clearance are interchangeable, ensuring easy installation and replacement. The actual clearance limits for cylindrical and tapered bore designs comply with IATF 16949:2016, which defines values for unmounted bearings under zero measuring load.
Cylindrical roller bearings are engineered to carry high radial loads with minimal friction and certain designs can also support limited axial loads depending on their internal geometry. Unlike ball bearings, which rely on single-point contact, cylindrical rollers distribute the load across a larger surface area, giving them a much higher load-carrying capacity for their size.
Among the different types, E-type cylindrical roller bearings include more rollers, enabling them to handle extra heavy loads without compromising speed. These are widely used in wind turbines, rolling mills and high-stress industrial gearboxes, where maximum load capacity and reliability are essential.
Cylindrical Bearing Specifications Table
| Range: {(N-NU-NJ-NUP)} | Range: {(N-NU-NJ-NUP)} |
|---|---|
| 204E to 240E | 2205E to 2230E |
| 304E to 330E | 2304E to 2324E |
| 405E to 420E |
bearings
Technology
Types of Cylindrical Roller Bearings
Single Row Cylindrical Roller Bearings
These versatile bearings carry heavy radial loads with optional axial guidance or free axial displacement. Common in gearboxes, pumps, compressors and long shafts, they provide easy installation, high stability and reliable high-speed performance.
Double Row Cylindrical Roller Bearings
With two rows of rollers, these bearings offer greater stiffness and load capacity, making them ideal for spindles, electric motors and paper machines. Their compact design ensures long-lasting stability and performance under heavy-duty operations.
Four Row Cylindrical Roller Bearings
Specially designed for very heavy radial loads, these bearings are common in steel rolling mills, crushers and heavy industrial presses. Available with cylindrical or tapered bores, they provide continuous performance in demanding applications.
Cylindrical Thrust Roller Bearings
Designed for pure axial load handling, these bearings deliver high axial stiffness and precise motion control. They are widely used in gearboxes, spindles and vertical shaft applications requiring thrust load capacity.
Types & design variants: NJ bearing, N, NU, NUP, RNU and double-row
Cylindrical roller bearings are available in different designs, each suited for specific applications and load conditions. The most common types are N, NU, NJ, and NUP series:
N-Type
- The inner ring has two integral flanges, while the outer ring has none.
- Allows the shaft to move axially in both directions relative to the housing.
- Suitable for applications requiring free axial displacement.
NU-Type
- The outer ring has two integral flanges, while the inner ring has none.
- Similar to N-type, it permits axial displacement of the shaft in both directions.
- Commonly used where thermal expansion of the shaft needs to be accommodated.
NJ-Type
- The outer ring has two integral flanges, and the inner ring has one flange.
- Can carry limited axial load in one direction.
- Typically used in locating bearing arrangements.
NUP-Type
- The outer ring has two flanges, the inner ring has one integral flange plus a loose flange ring.
- Can carry axial loads in both directions and fix the shaft axially relative to the housing.
- Ideal for fixed-end bearing arrangements.
Features and Benefits of Cylindrical Roller Bearings
High Load Capacity
The line contact between cylinder rollers and raceways allows superior radial load handling, making them ideal for steel mills, cement plants and heavy machinery.
High Stiffness
Their rigid construction provides excellent shaft support, ensuring precision and stability in gearboxes, motors and spindles.
Axial Displacement Capability
Certain variants (N, NU) accommodate axial shaft movement, preventing stress build-up due to thermal expansion.
Low Friction Performance
Optimised roller end design and surface finishing reduce energy loss, support lubrication film formation and improve speed performance.
Extended Service Life
The special roller profile minimises edge stress, reducing sensitivity to misalignment and shaft deflection.
Operational Reliability
High-quality surface finishes enhance lubricant film formation, ensuring smoother running and reduced wear.
Separable and Interchangeable Components
Many cylindrical bearings have split inner/outer rings, allowing easy mounting, dismounting and inspection during shutdowns.
Easy Maintenance
With simple design, high durability and interchangeability, they reduce downtime and support efficient MRO operations.
Custom Clearances Available
Bearings can be supplied with standard, C3, C2, C4 or reduced clearances to suit specific operating conditions.
Interchangeable Components
Even bearings with reduced clearances have fully interchangeable parts for easy replacement and service flexibility.
Applications of Cylindrical Roller Bearings
RAS Bearings supplies cylindrical roller bearings that are essential in both locating and non-locating positions, making them versatile across many industrial sectors. Their high load capacity, durability and low-friction design make them suitable for:
Steel & Rolling Mills
For mill stands, continuous casters and heavy presses.
Cement Plants
Crushers, rotary kilns and clinker coolers.
Mining & Quarrying
Vibrating screens, crushers, conveyors and heavy-duty gearboxes.
Power Generation
Motors, turbines and alternators.
Railways & Traction Motors
Locomotives, coaches and rail bogies.
Pulp & Paper Industry
Rotating dryers, calendars and pulp refiners.
Automotive & Industrial Gearboxes
Transmission systems and stationary gearboxes.
Pumps & Compressors
For oil & gas, water treatment and process industries.
Construction & Off-Highway Equipment
Cranes, excavators and material handling systems.
Textile & Plastics Machinery
Spindles, extruders and blending equipment.
Whether it’s heavy-duty load support in steel mills or high-speed precision in paper machines, our cylindrical bearings deliver consistent performance, long service life and reliable uptime.
Why Choose RAS Bearings?
Proven Industry Expertise
With years of experience in supplying steel plants, cement mills, mining, railways and power generation, our team understands the challenges Indian industries face. We help you choose bearings that maximise performance, efficiency and service life.
Technical Support & After-Sales Service
From bearing selection and sizing to installation guidance, maintenance tips, and troubleshooting, our technical team is available to support you at every step. With pan-India presence, we ensure quick assistance whenever you need it.
Customer-Centric Approach
Every industry has unique requirements, and we take the time to understand yours. Whether it’s a special clearance NJ bearing, a sealed cylindrical roller bearing or a split cylinder roller, we recommend the most cost-effective and reliable solution.
Reliable Sourcing & Genuine Products
We supply only 100% genuine, branded bearings from reputed manufacturers, including Schaeffler bearings and other global leaders. With GST invoicing, batch traceability and on-time dispatch, we guarantee reliability and transparency in every order.
Standards Compliance
All RAS cylindrical roller bearings meet IATF 16949:2016 clearance specifications, guaranteeing precise tolerances, consistent quality and dependable performance that aligns with international engineering and industry standards.
Looking for the right cylindrical roller bearing or need urgent technical support? Contact RAS Bearings our experts will connect with you and recommend the perfect solution for your application.
FAQs on Cylindrical Roller Bearings
What is the difference between a ball bearing and a cylindrical roller bearing?
Ball bearings use point contact, making them suitable for moderate loads and speeds. Cylindrical roller bearings use line contact, allowing them to handle heavier radial loads with higher stiffness.
In short: use ball bearings for lighter duties and cylindrical bearings when strength and stability are more important.
What is an NJ bearing?
An NJ bearing is a type of single-row cylindrical roller bearing that supports radial loads and axial loads in one direction. It is widely used in gearboxes, pumps, compressors and drives where controlled axial guidance is needed.
Can I replace an NU bearing with an NJ bearing?
Not directly.
NU bearing = handles radial load + allows axial displacement (non-locating).
NJ bearing = handles radial load + axial load in one direction (locating).
If you swap without design review, it may create axial stress and reduce bearing life.
How do I choose between grease and oil lubrication?
Use grease for general machinery, moderate speed and dusty environments (easy to maintain).
Use oil for high-speed, high-temperature, or continuous-duty operations (better cooling and lubrication).
Do I need C3 clearance in cylindrical bearings?
Yes, in many cases.
- C3 clearance means extra internal clearance.
- It is useful when the bearing operates at high temperatures, or when the inner ring has an interference fit on the shaft.
This avoids excessive preload and ensures smooth running.
How often should cylindrical roller bearings be lubricated?
It depends on:
- Speed (faster = more frequent lubrication).
- Temperature (hotter = grease breaks down faster).
- Contamination levels (dust, moisture = more relubrication needed).
A simple rule: follow OEM guidelines, but also track bearing temperature and vibration for smarter, condition-based maintenance.
What is the difference between spherical and cylindrical bearings?
Spherical bearings: Can handle shaft misalignment and carry both radial and axial loads. Best for applications with shaft deflection (like conveyors or crushers).
Cylindrical bearings: Handle higher radial loads with more stiffness, but allow less misalignment. Best for gearboxes, motors and precision applications.
What is the difference between a needle roller and a cylindrical roller?
Needle roller bearings: Long, thin rollers (high length-to-diameter ratio). Suitable for limited space but high radial loads.
Cylindrical roller bearings: Shorter, thicker rollers with greater radial load capacity. Used in gearboxes, motors, steel plants and heavy equipment.