CEROBEAR hybrid and ceramic rolling bearings exclusively use silicon nitride (Si3N4). The combination zirconium oxide (ZrO2), used as a ring material, and spheres made of Si3N4 seldom occurs. Hardness, compression strength, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance are considerably higher than in rolling bearing steel. A high E-module decreases deformation under stress. A bearing containing ceramic spheres is stiffer than a steel bearing one. In addition, a smaller contact surface develops (hertzian contact ellipse). A decrease in friction is the result. Although a smaller contact surface leads to higher hertzian pressure this proves to be unproblematic for ceramic.
The material characteristics listed in the table below apply to ceramic materials and qualify for the use in rolling bearings. For example, this occurs in rig testing under defined test conditions which are verified to special requirements of the customer. Important for the handling and manufacturing of ceramic is the consistent quality of the basic raw material, the powder, and the proceeding finishing steps.