The 6202 deep groove ball bearing is one of the most commonly used rolling bearings in industrial and consumer equipment. With standard dimensions of 15 mm bore diameter, 35 mm outer diameter, and 11 mm width, this bearing appears in electric motors, power tools, automotive systems, household appliances, and agricultural machinery. What is the load capacity of a 6202 bearing? How do you choose between the ZZ (metal shield) and 2RS (rubber seal) versions?
This guide will provide complete specifications, composition details, seal selection criteria, code designation, performance characteristics, application examples, and frequently asked questions. The information below serves as a technical reference for engineers, maintenance professionals, and procurement specialists who work with 6202 bearings.
Dimensions and Basic Specifications of 6202 Bearing
The 6202 bearing conforms to ISO 15 standards for boundary dimensions. The table below summarizes its key specifications:
| Parameter | Metric Value | Imperial Value |
|---|---|---|
| Bore diameter (d) | 15 mm | 0.5906 in |
| Outer diameter (D) | 35 mm | 1.3780 in |
| Width (B) | 11 mm | 0.4331 in |
| Weight | Approx. 45 g | Approx. 0.099 lb |
| Dynamic load rating (Cr) | Approx. 7.7 kN (785 kgf) | — |
| Static load rating (C0r) | Approx. 3.6–4.0 kN (367–408 kgf) | — |
Manufacturer data may vary slightly. For reference, SKF lists a dynamic load rating of 7.65 kN for the 6202 bearing, while NSK lists 8.4 kN. These differences arise from internal design variations, material quality, and testing methods. The values above represent typical industry references.
Limiting speeds depend on the seal or shield configuration. The values below are reference figures under standard conditions (lubrication, moderate load):
| Configuration | Limiting Speed (reference) |
|---|---|
| Open (no seals) | Up to 24,000 rpm |
| ZZ / 2Z (metal shields) | Up to 20,000 rpm |
| 2RS (contact rubber seals) | Up to 14,000 rpm |
Actual speeds may be lower under high loads, elevated temperatures, or insufficient lubrication.
Tolerance class: Standard 6202 bearings are manufactured to P0 (ABEC 1) tolerance, suitable for most general applications. Higher precision grades such as P6 (ABEC 3) or P5 (ABEC 5) are available for applications requiring tighter running accuracy, such as spindle motors or precision instruments.
Internal clearance (radial play): Standard 6202 bearings are supplied with CN (normal) clearance. For applications with high operating temperatures (above 70°C), shaft interference fits, or speed variations, C3 (increased) clearance is recommended. C4 (extra increased) clearance is used in specialized high-temperature or heavy interference fit conditions.
Lubrication: Most standard 6202 bearings come pre-greased with lithium-based grease that operates effectively from -30°C to +120°C. Alternative greases are available for specific conditions:
- High-temperature grease (up to 180°C) for furnaces or drying equipment
- Low-temperature grease (down to -50°C) for cold storage or outdoor applications
- Food-grade grease (NSF H1) for food processing machinery
Mounting dimensions (for shaft and housing design):
| Parameter | Value (mm) |
|---|---|
| da (min) – shaft shoulder diameter | 16 mm |
| Da (max) – housing shoulder diameter | 31 mm |
| ra (max) – fillet radius | 0.6 mm |
These values ensure proper bearing support and prevent stress concentrations at the shoulders.
Composition and Material of 6202 Bearing
A 6202 deep groove ball bearing consists of four primary components. Understanding the function and material of each part helps in diagnosing failure modes and selecting appropriate replacement bearings.
Inner ring: The inner ring mounts onto the shaft and provides the inner raceway for the rolling elements. It rotates with the shaft during operation. The inner ring is machined from high-carbon chromium bearing steel.
Outer ring: The outer ring fits into the housing and provides the outer raceway. It remains stationary in most applications. Both rings are heat-treated to achieve a hardness of 60–64 HRC, providing high wear resistance and fatigue life.
Balls (rolling elements): The 6202 bearing contains eight steel balls with a diameter of approximately 5.953 mm (0.2344 in). These balls transmit the load between the inner and outer rings. The point contact between balls and raceways enables the bearing to accommodate both radial and axial loads.
Cage (retainer): The cage maintains even spacing between the balls, preventing metal-to-metal contact during rotation. Most standard 6202 bearings use a pressed steel cage. For higher speeds or lower noise requirements, cages made from polyamide (nylon) may be used. Brass cages are available for high-temperature applications.
Material specification: The standard material for 6202 bearing rings and balls is high-carbon chromium bearing steel, designated as GCr15 in Chinese standards (equivalent to SAE 52100 or 100Cr6). This material offers high hardness, good fatigue resistance, and dimensional stability under operating temperatures. Rings and balls are through-hardened, not case-hardened, to maintain hardness throughout the cross-section.
For corrosive environments, stainless steel versions (AISI 440C or equivalent) are available, though they have lower load ratings than standard chrome steel.
How to Choose the Right Seal or Shield for Your 6202 Bearing
The 6202 bearing is available in multiple closure configurations. Each configuration represents a trade-off between protection level, speed capability, and maintenance requirements.
Open bearings have no seals or shields. They allow easy regreasing and achieve the highest limiting speeds. However, they are susceptible to contamination ingress and lubricant leakage. Open 6202 bearings are suitable for clean operating environments with regular maintenance access, such as in industrial gearboxes or oil-lubricated systems.
Shielded bearings (ZZ / 2Z) feature non-contact metal shields pressed into the outer ring. The shields create a narrow gap (typically 0.2–0.3 mm) that prevents larger particles from entering while allowing minimal friction. Shielded bearings offer a balance of protection and speed, with limiting speeds close to those of open bearings. They are suitable for applications where moderate dust is present but moisture is not a concern, such as in electric motor fans or conveyor rollers.
Sealed bearings (RS / 2RS) incorporate contact rubber seals (typically made from nitrile rubber or acrylic rubber). The seal lips contact the inner ring, creating an effective barrier that retains grease and excludes dust, water, and fine particles. However, contact seals increase rotational friction, which reduces the limiting speed by approximately 30–40% compared to open bearings. Sealed bearings are pre-lubricated for life and require no maintenance, making them ideal for applications where regreasing is impractical, such as in sealed electric motors or power tools.
Selection recommendations by application environment:
| Operating Environment | Recommended Type | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Clean, dry, high-speed | Open | Maximum speed, can be regreased |
| Dusty but dry, moderate speed | ZZ (shields) | Good protection, minimal speed loss |
| Humid, outdoor, washdown | 2RS (seals) | Superior moisture exclusion |
| Food processing (wet) | 2RS + food-grade grease | Sealing plus approved lubricant |
| High-temperature furnace | Open or metal shields (no rubber) | Rubber seals degrade above 120°C |
In applications requiring frequent washdown or outdoor use, 2RS (double rubber seals) is the preferred choice. The rubber seals prevent water ingress and grease washout, extending bearing life.
What Does the Code “6202” Mean?
The designation “6202” follows an international numbering system for deep groove ball bearings (ISO 15 or DIN 625). Understanding this code allows identification of bearing type and size without referring to dimension tables.
The digit “6” indicates a deep groove ball bearing. This is the most common bearing type, characterized by deep raceway grooves that allow the bearing to accommodate radial loads as well as moderate axial loads in both directions.
The digit “2” (the first digit after the series prefix) refers to the series – specifically the 62 series, which is a light series. Compared to the 63 series (medium series) with the same bore diameter, the 62 series has a smaller cross-section, lower load capacity, but higher speed capability.
The digits “02” represent the bore diameter code. For bearings with bore diameters from 20 mm to 480 mm, the bore in millimeters is calculated by multiplying the code by 5. However, for codes 00, 01, 02, and 03, fixed conversions apply:
- 00 = 10 mm bore
- 01 = 12 mm bore
- 02 = 15 mm bore
- 03 = 17 mm bore
Therefore, 6202 indicates a deep groove ball bearing in the 62 series with a 15 mm bore.
Suffixes add information about seals, shields, internal clearance, and precision:
| Suffix | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Z | Single metal shield (one side) |
| ZZ or 2Z | Double metal shields (both sides) |
| RS | Single rubber seal (one side) |
| 2RS | Double rubber seals (both sides) |
| C3 | Increased internal clearance |
| C4 | Extra increased clearance |
| P5 | Precision class higher than P0 (ABEC 5) |
| P6 | Precision class between P0 and P5 (ABEC 3) |
| WT | High-temperature grease |
| LT | Low-temperature grease |
Example: A bearing labeled 6202-2RS-C3 is a deep groove ball bearing with double rubber seals and increased internal clearance.
Key Performance Characteristics of 6202 Bearing
The following characteristics make the 6202 bearing suitable for a wide range of applications.
Standardized size – The 6202 bearing follows ISO dimensions, making it interchangeable across manufacturers worldwide. Replacement bearings can be sourced from any reputable manufacturer without modifying shaft or housing dimensions.
Moderate load capacity – With a dynamic load rating of approximately 7.7 kN, the 6202 handles radial loads typical for small to medium-sized rotating machinery. It also accommodates moderate axial loads (typically up to 30–40% of the radial load rating) in either direction. For comparison, the 6201 (12 mm bore) has a dynamic rating of approximately 6.8 kN, while the 6203 (17 mm bore) rates at approximately 9.6 kN.
High speed capability – The open 6202 bearing can operate at speeds up to 24,000 rpm with proper lubrication. This speed capability suits high-speed electric motors, dental drills, and spindle applications.
Low friction – The deep groove design and precise surface finishing minimize frictional torque. Low friction reduces power loss and heat generation, which is critical for energy-efficient equipment.
Durability – Manufactured from SAE 52100 (GCr15) steel with through-hardening heat treatment, the 6202 bearing achieves a fatigue life appropriate for continuous operation under design loads. The material and heat treatment process ensure dimensional stability up to approximately 150°C.
Wide adaptability – The availability of multiple seal types, clearance classes, and lubrication options allows the 6202 bearing to be specified for diverse operating conditions, from household appliances to agricultural machinery.
Common Applications with Examples
The 6202 bearing’s combination of compact dimensions, moderate load capacity, and high-speed capability makes it suitable for applications across multiple industries. The examples below illustrate real-world uses.
Electric motors: Small to medium-sized electric motors in fans, pumps, compressors, and blowers frequently use 6202 bearings on the rotor shaft. For example, a 0.75 kW HVAC fan motor typically uses two 6202-2RS bearings – one at each end of the rotor – providing quiet operation and sealed protection against dust.
Power tools: Drills, angle grinders, sanders, circular saws, and chainsaws rely on 6202 bearings for spindle support. In an angle grinder, the 6202-2RS bearing supports the bevel gear output shaft, where the sealed configuration retains grease and excludes grinding dust.
Automotive industry: The 6202 bearing appears in alternators, water pumps, belt tensioners, and idler pulleys. For example, a belt tensioner pulley in a passenger car engine often uses a 6202-2RS-C3 bearing – the C3 clearance accommodates thermal expansion under the hood, and the seals prevent water and belt debris ingress.
Household appliances: Washing machines, dryers, air conditioners, and kitchen appliances use 6202 bearings in their drive systems. In a front-loading washing machine, 6202 bearings support the drum shaft, operating under varying loads and exposure to moisture.
Agricultural machinery: Various farm implements and outdoor power equipment incorporate 6202 bearings in rotating assemblies. For example, a conveyor roller in a grain handling system uses 6202-2RS bearings to resist dust and moisture while carrying moderate radial loads.
Industrial equipment: Textile machinery, printing equipment, food processing machinery, and packaging equipment all use 6202 bearings. In a food packaging conveyor, stainless steel 6202 bearings with food-grade grease may be specified to meet sanitary requirements.
Other Popular Bearings in the 6200 Series
The 6200 series includes several other commonly used deep groove ball bearings. The table below compares dimensions of related models to help identify alternatives or replacements.
| Bearing Model | Bore (d) mm | Outer Diameter (D) mm | Width (B) mm | Dynamic Load Rating (kN, approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6000 | 10 | 26 | 8 | 4.6 |
| 6001 | 12 | 28 | 8 | 5.1 |
| 6002 | 15 | 32 | 9 | 5.6 |
| 6200 | 10 | 30 | 9 | 5.4 |
| 6201 | 12 | 32 | 10 | 6.8 |
| 6202 | 15 | 35 | 11 | 7.7 |
| 6203 | 17 | 40 | 12 | 9.6 |
| 6302 | 15 | 42 | 13 | 11.4 |
Selection notes:
- 6000 series bearings are lighter and thinner than the 6200 series with the same bore. They suit applications with tight radial space constraints but lower load requirements.
- 6200 series provides a balance of load capacity and cross-section. The 6202 is the most popular in this series for 15 mm shafts.
- 6300 series has larger cross-sections and higher load capacities but occupies more space and has lower speed limits than the 6200 series.
When selecting between these models, consider the available mounting space, required load capacity, and operating speed. The 6202 represents a balance that works well for many medium-duty applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the load capacity of a 6202 bearing?
The dynamic load rating (Cr) is approximately 7.7 kN (785 kgf), and the static load rating (C0r) is approximately 3.6–4.0 kN (367–408 kgf). Actual allowable loads depend on operating conditions, mounting fit, lubrication, and required service life. Different manufacturers may quote slightly different values based on their internal designs.
Q2: What is the difference between 6202ZZ and 6202-2RS?
6202ZZ has metal shields on both sides – non-contact, allowing higher speeds but providing less contamination protection. 6202-2RS has rubber contact seals on both sides – superior sealing against dust and moisture, but lower limiting speed (approximately 14,000 rpm vs. 20,000 rpm for ZZ).
Q3: Can a 6202 bearing handle axial loads?
Yes. Deep groove ball bearings like the 6202 can accommodate moderate axial loads in both directions in addition to radial loads. As a guideline, the axial load capacity is typically 30–40% of the radial load rating. For pure or high axial loads, angular contact ball bearings are more suitable.
Q4: What grease is recommended for 6202 bearings?
Standard 6202 bearings come pre-greased with lithium-based grease suitable for -30°C to +120°C. For specific operating conditions, custom greases are available: high-temperature (up to 180°C), low-temperature (down to -50°C), or food-grade (NSF H1).
Q5: Is the 6202 bearing interchangeable across brands?
Yes. The 6202 bearing follows ISO standard dimensions, so bearings from different manufacturers (SKF, NSK, FAG, NTN, Timken, and Chinese manufacturers) are dimensionally interchangeable. However, internal design, material quality, noise levels, and actual service life may vary between brands.
Q6: What does the C3 suffix mean on a 6202 bearing?
C3 indicates increased internal clearance (radial play). This allows for thermal expansion when the bearing operates at high speeds or in high-temperature environments. C3 clearance is recommended for applications where the bearing fits tightly on the shaft or in the housing, or when operating temperatures exceed 70°C.
Q7: Can I use a 6202 bearing to replace a 6201 bearing?
Not directly. The 6202 has a 15 mm bore, while the 6201 has a 12 mm bore. The outer diameters also differ (35 mm vs. 32 mm). Always select bearings with matching dimensions for the intended shaft and housing. A 6201 bearing cannot be mounted on a 15 mm shaft, and a 6202 bearing will not fit in a housing designed for a 6201.
Q8: Is there a stainless steel version of the 6202 bearing?
Yes. Stainless steel 6202 bearings (typically AISI 440C rings and balls) are available for corrosive environments such as food processing, marine, or chemical applications. However, stainless steel versions have lower load ratings (approximately 80–85% of chrome steel) due to lower material hardness.
Q9: What is the typical noise level of a 6202 bearing?
Noise levels vary by manufacturer and quality grade. Standard P0 (ABEC 1) bearings typically produce vibration velocity of 30–50 µm/s under test conditions. Low-noise versions (often designated with “V” suffix or as “electric motor quality”) are available for applications requiring quiet operation, such as household appliances.
Q10: How to measure a 6202 bearing for replacement?
To confirm you need a 6202 bearing, measure the bore (inner diameter) – should be 15 mm; outer diameter – 35 mm; and width – 11 mm. Also check the seal/shield type (open, ZZ, or 2RS) and any suffix codes (C3, etc.) on the original bearing or its packaging.
Conclusion
The 6202 deep groove ball bearing is a standardized, versatile component with 15 mm bore diameter, 35 mm outer diameter, and 11 mm width. Its design accommodates radial loads up to approximately 7.7 kN and moderate axial loads at speeds up to 24,000 rpm in open configuration. The bearing is available in open, shielded (ZZ), and sealed (2RS) versions, each suited to different operating environments and maintenance requirements.
When selecting a 6202 bearing, consider the following parameters: seal type (based on contamination and moisture exposure), internal clearance (standard CN or increased C3 for high temperatures or tight fits), lubrication (standard grease or specialty options), and any precision requirements. Suffix codes (ZZ, 2RS, C3, P5, etc.) provide configuration options for specific application needs.
Common applications include electric motors, power tools, automotive alternators and tensioners, household appliances, agricultural machinery, and industrial equipment. The 6202 bearing’s dimensional standardization ensures global interchangeability, while material and design choices allow adaptation to diverse operating conditions.
