Spindle bearing source

[wireb]

Working on designing my high speed spindle and looking for a source for some 6x04-2rs (20mm ID is the only fixed dimension so far) bearings in the 25000rpm flavor.

What suppliers have folks used with good success?

So far I have checked mcmaster carr (21,000 max thin walled)
and found these on ebay
6004-2RS Premium Grade Bearing 20x42, 6004RS/C3, ABEC3+ - eBay (item 390250795708 end time Jan-08-11 16:05:54 PST)
according to the mfg they are 18,000RPM max.

They also stock a 6304-2rs just wating on a email back if the max speed is the same. (assuming the thicker the cross section the better for load and roundness)

[RicknBeachcrest]

Check out Boca Bearing. They carry lots of different types and sizes. I've bought lots of RC heli bearings from them. Good people to deal with.

Boca Bearing Company :: Ceramic Bearing Specialists

[RICHARD ZASTROW]

6204 is a deep groove ball bearing. Most spindle bearings are angular contact ball bearings or for slow(er) applications, taper roller bearings. This avoids the end play built into deep groove ball bearings.

ABEC 3 is not a very precise bearing for a spindle. Normally, ABEC 7 or 9's are used in spindles.

I guess it's a matter of "Precision costs money. How fussy are you?"

Dick Z

[wireb]

Would prefer 7 or 9s but have been striking out finding anyone who carries 20mm ID in those classes.

[ger21]

I think you need to go to ceramic to get to 25K rpm.

Maybe not.
http://www.vxb.com/page/bearings/PROD/Kit10829

http://www.vxb.com/page/bearings/PROD/Kit10871

[RICHARD ZASTROW]

wireb, Gerry is correct on the ceramic balls. You'd be really pushing the limits with the steel balls listed above.

btw, those are really good prices. We just bought (4) pairs of ABEC 7 15mm id sealed A/C bearings w/steel balls @ $369/pair.

Dick Z

[ger21]

Typically, on a commercial Router Spindle, the ones rated to 18,000 use steel balls, and the ones rated to 24,000 use ceramic. That's why I mentioned that above.