Compare an existing bearing
Cross Reference
Prepare the original designation, check the installation and operating requirements, and record differences before considering a replacement.
Keep the complete original designation
Copy the marking exactly, including spaces, separators, prefixes and suffixes. Add the manufacturer and a photograph if any characters are difficult to read. A shortened purchasing code may omit a detail that matters to the comparison.
A readable part number
Include the complete marking, original brand, quantity and the drawing or datasheet revision. Keep the original reference even if you also have an internal stock code.
Browse the product catalogue →An unmarked or worn part
Provide clear photographs and named measurements with units. Separate sample measurements from drawing dimensions; mark uncertain values rather than guessing them.
Check which dimensions to provide →A change to an existing design
Explain what must stay fixed and what may change: installation envelope, thread, maintenance access, material, seals or required movement.
Discuss a drawing-defined change →What needs to match?
Use the same drawing references and units for both items. Leave an unknown value open for clarification instead of treating it as a match.
| Comparison item | Information to provide | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Installation dimensions | Bore, outside diameter, inner and outer ring widths; fits, shoulders and available space. For rod ends, include the complete thread callout and centre distance. | The mating shaft, housing or connection must be checked as an assembly. |
| Sliding contact and materials | Ring and housing materials, sliding pair or liner, coatings and any corrosion requirements. | Similar dimensions do not establish the same friction, maintenance or operating behaviour. |
| Seals and lubrication | Open or sealed configuration, lubrication provisions and maintenance restrictions. | A different arrangement may require changes to access, protection or maintenance. |
| Clearance and movement | Specified clearance or torque, oscillation range, tilt or misalignment, speed and duty cycle. | Check the movement and surrounding space, not just the nominal bearing size. |
| Loads and environment | Radial and axial load information, peaks or shocks, operating temperature and contamination. Include the source of each requirement. | Catalogue ratings need to be reviewed against the actual operating conditions. |
| Documentation and approval | Original and proposed drawings, revisions, required reports and your approval process. | Any difference should be recorded before a substitution decision. |
Compare a robotic linkage as an assembly
A matching bearing bore is only one part of a linkage comparison. Keep the original designation or drawing and check End A / End B interfaces, centre distance, thread size, pitch and hand, adjustment range, locking method and surrounding movement space.
For a hand, wrist or other robotic connection, compare assembled play and starting torque under the same stated test conditions. Record the liner or sliding-pair construction, required motion and load cases; do not infer the same behaviour from similar dimensions or a “low clearance” description.
Compare LSANG catalogue dimensions · Define joint clearance and torque requirements
From comparison to a purchasing decision
- Identify the original item.Send its complete designation, supporting documents and the reason for the replacement request.
- Record the differences.Compare the proposed item against the installation and operating requirements. List missing evidence and any assembly changes.
- Confirm the scope before ordering.Use the agreed designation, drawing revision, quantity and documentation requirements in the quotation and approval process.
A comparison candidate is not an approved substitute
A similar designation, shared bore size or matching envelope dimensions alone does not establish interchangeability. Suffix meanings and rating methods can differ between manufacturers. Review the specific documents and application requirements before substituting a part.
Prepare a replacement enquiry
Bring the original manufacturer and full designation, a drawing or datasheet, quantity, delivery destination and the features that must stay unchanged. If the current part has a problem, describe the observed wear, play, corrosion or maintenance issue without assuming its cause.
Copy the comparison enquiry checklist · Describe the movement and loads
In the enquiry form, choose I need a replacement. Email supporting files to [email protected] using the same part or project reference. Discuss confidentiality arrangements before sending restricted drawings.
Have an existing bearing to compare?
Send the original designation and explain what must stay the same.
