Bearings for Medical Devices and Mobility Equipment

Precision bearings facilitate smooth motion with minimal friction in components that spin, turn, rotate, or slide. Bearings enable energy-efficient sustained motion in powered and manual applications as well. They also help to reduce operational noise.

Many types of medical and mobility equipment incorporate bearings in wheels, shafts, cranks, and other assemblies. Some common examples include:

Emerson Bearing is a leading expert in ball and roller bearings for medical, mobility, and many other applications. We work with customers to select and source high-quality bearings from a large number of trusted brands, along with custom bearing modification, packaging, kitting, and engineering support. Learn more about bearings for medical and mobility applications, their benefits, and what sets Emerson apart.

Bearing Types for Medical and Mobility Applications

Medical and mobility equipment incorporate many types of bearings. Some common types include:

• Ball Bearings. These spherical bearings are available in a variety of materials and sizes, and can support moderate axial and radial loads. They can be used with seals and shields for lubrication, which can improve service life and performance at high operating speeds.
• Super Precision Bearings. These ball or roller bearings offer superior precision for high-accuracy and high-speed performance. They are often used in equipment like X-ray machines, CT scanners, and surgical robots where precision fit and function are critical.
• Linear Motion Bearings. Linear motion bearings provide stable, linear movement on a single axis. They sit inside a carriage or block, which rides along a guide rail. They are available in both ball,roller, and plain bearing styles, and can be oriented at different contact angles to improve motion and stability on the rail.
• Special Environment Bearings. Bearings that will be regularly exposed to high temperatures, magnetic fields, or corrosive substances often require modifications in order to perform optimally. We source bearings that use specialty materials , lubricants, accessories, and other design adaptations for these applications.

Benefits of Bearings for Medical Devices and Mobility Equipment

While there may be several ways to achieve smooth and quiet movement in an application, bearings are a smart design choice for many reasons, including:

• Optimized Precision. High precision of bearing dimensions and surfaces is essential for surgical robots and tools.
• Reliable Performance. MRI machines, CT scanners, infusion pumps, ventilators, and other critical equipment incorporate bearings in many moving components. High-quality precision bearings perform better and last longer under repeated use.
• Vibration and Noise Reduction. Medical bearings can also increase patient comfort and staff performance by minimizing noise and vibration in sliding platforms, handheld devices, and mobility equipment like walkers and wheelchairs.
• Durability and Service Life. Ball and roller bearings add stability and low-friction motion which prolongs the life of many assemblies and components. A variety of materials can be used to manufacture precision bearings that will be exposed to moisture and corrosive elements.
• Suitable for Sterilization Processes. Bearings can be manufactured to withstand frequent sterilization and exposure to other cleaning processes.
• Material Variety. Precision bearings are available in many materials for different use with environments, loads, and speeds. These include stainless steel, chrome steel, and ceramic, including biocompatible options.

Trusted Bearing Solutions for the Medical and Mobility Industry From Emerson Bearing

Bearings promote smooth, efficient, quiet motion and add stability in many different medical and mobility applications, large and small. Both ball and roller bearings are available in different materials and sizes to accommodate repeated and prolonged use, high speeds, and light, moderate, or heavy loads.

Emerson Bearing has over 50 years of experience distributing some of the most reliable ball and roller bearings, including many that are widely used in medical and mobility applications. Our experts can help you select ball bearings, super precision bearings, linear motion bearings, ball bearings, mounted units, oil seals, roller chains, and related components that meet your requirements. Request a quote to get started on your medical or mobility project today.