- Technical knowledge center
- Principles of selecting bearing fits
- Hole tolerance fields H7-H11
- Typical fits of bearing nodes
- Reconditioning tolerances of holes for pins and bushings
- DIN 471 / DIN 472 circlips
- Slide bushings – types and selection
- Installation and removal of bearings – technical principles
The selection of a bearing node fit depends on the nature of the load, the direction of the load relative to the bearing rings, the speed of rotation and the operating conditions.
As a basic rule, the ring relative to which the load acts circumferentially should be seated with a push fit. The ring, relative to which the load is constant, can be seated with clearance or a transition fit.
Table of typical fits
| Working conditions | Inner ring (shaft) | Outer ring (hole) | Nature of the fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal load | k6 | H7 | Transition fit / light press fit |
| Heavy loads | m6 | H7 | Press |
| Very heavy loads / strokes | n6 | H7 | Powerful push |
| Outer ring stationary | h6 | H7 | Passing with ease |
| Circumferential load on the outer ring | h6 | M7 / N7 | Press in body |
| Fixing system | k6 / m6 | H7 | Axial fixation |
| Floating arrangement | k6 | H7 (with axial play) | Expansion compensation |
does not replace structural calculations
does not take into account the thermal expansion of materials with large α
does not apply to thin-walled bodies
Rules of interpretation
For a shaft that rotates relative to the load, the inner ring should have a push fit to prevent it from rotating on the settling surface.
If the load acts circumferentially on the outer ring, the pressure should be applied to the body seat.
For high dynamic loads, it is recommended to increase the push-in by selecting the m6 or n6 field.
Effect of temperature and speed
High rotational speeds and temperature differences between the shaft and the body can cause a change in the push-in value during operation.
Too much pressure can lead to a decrease in the radial clearance of the bearing and an increase in operating temperature. In such cases, the internal clearance class (e.g., C3) should be considered.
Construction Notes
The selection of a fit should be analyzed in conjunction with:
- Geometric tolerance of settlement surfaces,
- roughness,
- The coaxiality of the sockets,
- The method of assembly and disassembly.
Reference to standards
Selection of fits should be done in accordance with:
ISO 286-2 – dimensional tolerances
ISO 492 – bearing accuracy
ISO 1101 – geometric tolerances

