The Preferred Configuration For Lathe Spindle Bearings

There are two common configurations for lathe spindle bearings. One has two angular contact ball bearings on each side of the spindle, while the other uses a combination of radial and thrust bearings. The angular contact ball bearings are usually used when precision is important.

The first configuration is called rigid spindle and requires two large bearings across the spindle bore. The other configuration is a three bearing layout using radial bearings with adjustable clearance. Depending on the size and weight of the spindle, a combination of radial and thrust bearings is used.

The preferred configuration for lathe spindle bearing is the DB configuration. A DB fixed pair is preferred over a float bearing. The radial bearings should be able to accommodate differential expansion. The preload on a DB bearing can be adjusted using a clamp-up nut and a preload cylinder. However, the preload on a DB bearing is relatively low compared to that of a float bearing.

Another common configuration is the ANGLE configuration. This configuration has two distinct advantages. First, it is a more cost-effective choice for lathe spindle bearings. It also reduces operating temperatures.