Needle Bearings
Verified by Mel Sykes, Industrial Supply Chain Specialist - April 2026
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Types | Drawn cup (HK), solid ring (NA/NK), needle roller thrust, combined needle roller |
| Standards | ISO 3245, ISO 1206 |
| Advantage | High load capacity in compact radial space. OD to bore ratio much smaller than ball/roller. |
What are Needle Bearings?
Needle Bearings are compact radial roller bearings designed to handle heavy loads in limited space. They feature long, thin rollers that fit between the inner and outer races, allowing for a high load capacity despite their small size.Types and variants
Needle Bearings come in several types: drawn cup (HK), solid ring (NA/NK), needle roller thrust, and combined needle roller bearings.- Drawn Cup Needle Roller Bearings (HK Series): These are self-contained units with an outer race that's pressed over the shaft. They typically have an inner diameter range of 5 to 30 mm and a length-to-diameter ratio up to 2:1. Common standards include ISO 3245.
- Solid Ring Needle Roller Bearings (NA/NK Series): These consist of loose needle rollers, outer rings, and side plates, making them suitable for axial positioning. They're available in bore sizes from 7 to 60 mm with a typical length-to-diameter ratio up to 1:1.
- Needle Roller Thrust Bearings: Designed to carry radial loads and accommodate misalignment. Available in various configurations like thrust washers and collars, these bearings can handle axial loads of up to several kilonewtons depending on the model.
- Combined Needle Roller Bearings (CNA/NK Series): These combine needle rollers with a cage system, providing high load capacity while maintaining compact dimensions.
Materials and specifications
Needle Bearings are made from materials like carbon steel (EN8), stainless steel (A2-70), brass, and bronze. Common standards include ISO 3245 for HK series and ISO 1206 for NA/NK series.- Carbon Steel (EN8): Suitable for general industrial applications with operating temperatures up to 150°C.
- Stainless Steel (A2-70): Offers corrosion resistance, ideal for food processing and marine environments where saltwater exposure is common. Load ratings range from 3 to 6 kN depending on the size.
Selection criteria
Choosing the right Needle Bearing involves considering factors like load capacity, speed, space constraints, and operating conditions.- Load Capacity: Ensure the bearing can handle the axial or radial loads your application requires. Refer to manufacturer datasheets for specific values.
- Speed Limitations: Check the maximum allowable RPMs to prevent overheating and premature wear.
- Space Constraints: Needle Bearings excel in compact applications where standard bearings would be too bulky. Evaluate if a smaller OD-to-bore ratio fits your design.
UK suppliers
MLC lists verified suppliers from Companies House, ensuring reliable sourcing options for Needle Bearings. Some reputable British suppliers include CBM Ltd., BIAFD Engineering, and BPMA members like BTMA.- CBM Ltd.: Offers a wide range of needle bearings in various materials and sizes to suit different applications.
- BIAFD Engineering: Specialises in high-quality needle roller thrust bearings for demanding industrial environments.
Common applications
Needle Bearings are used in numerous industries where space is limited but load requirements are significant.- Automotive Industry: In steering columns, gearboxes, and transmission systems. For example, a typical automotive gearbox might use HK series bearings with an inner diameter of 12 mm to support radial loads up to 4 kN.
- Aerospace Sector: In landing gear components and engine mountings where compactness is important for weight savings.
- Machine Tools: Used in rotary tables and spindles, providing precise rotation under heavy load conditions. For instance, a CNC machine spindle may use solid ring bearings (NA series) with an outer diameter of 40 mm to support radial loads up to 8 kN.
By selecting the appropriate type based on your application needs, you can optimise performance and longevity in tight spaces.
References
Verified UK Suppliers
| Company | Company No. | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Springco (N.I.) Limited | NI003360 | 21 Carn Road, Carn Industrial Estate, Portadown, B |
| Dana Sac Uk Limited | 02069720 | Bridgeway House, Bridgeway, Stratford Upon Avon, C |
| Dte International Limited | 09962928 | Bramley House, Bath Lane, Leeds, LS13 3BB |
| Darpol Logistics Ltd | 11264963 | 427-431 London Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S |
| D & M Engineering Limited | 02706103 | Chancery House, 3 Hatchlands Road, Redhill, Surrey |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Needle Bearings?
Needle Bearings are engineering components used in industrial applications. Browse verified UK suppliers on MLC.
Where can I buy Needle Bearings in the UK?
MLC lists verified UK needle bearings suppliers with Companies House data. Browse by product category or search by location.
What are Needle Bearings used for in engineering applications?
Needle Bearings are used in engineering applications where space is limited but high loads need to be supported. They provide a compact solution with high load capacity, making them ideal for gearboxes, transmissions, and other machinery.
How do I choose the right type of Needle Bearing for my application?
To choose the right type of Needle Bearing, consider factors such as the space available, load requirements, and operating conditions. Drawn cup needle roller bearings (HK series) are self-contained units suitable for shaft mounting, while solid ring needle roller bearings (NA/NK series) offer axial positioning flexibility.
What standards should I follow when selecting Needle Bearings?
When selecting Needle Bearings, adhere to international standards such as ISO 3245 and ISO 1206. These standards ensure compatibility and performance across different manufacturers.
Can you list some UK suppliers of Needle Bearings?
In the UK, reputable suppliers of Needle Bearings include companies like NSK Ltd., Schaeffler (FAG & INA), and SKF. They offer a wide range of types and sizes to suit various engineering needs.
What are the advantages of using Needle Bearings over other bearing types?
The main advantage of Needle Bearings is their ability to support high loads in compact radial spaces due to their thin, long rollers. This makes them more efficient than ball or roller bearings when a small outer diameter to bore ratio is required.
How do I ensure the cost-effectiveness and availability of Needle Bearings for my project?
To ensure cost-effectiveness and availability, it's important to consider local suppliers such as those listed in the UK. Additionally, ordering in bulk can reduce costs, while maintaining a safety stock helps prevent supply chain disruptions.
What are the common types of Needle Bearings available on mlc.org.uk?
On mlc.org.uk, you will find several types of Needle Bearings including drawn cup (HK series), solid ring (NA/NK series), needle roller thrust bearings, and combined needle roller bearings. Each type offers unique benefits for different engineering applications.
What are the typical dimensions and ratios for Drawn Cup Needle Roller Bearings?
Drawn Cup Needle Roller Bearings (HK series) typically have an inner diameter range of 5 to 30 mm and a length-to-diameter ratio up to 2:1. They conform to standards like ISO 3245, ensuring consistent quality across different applications.