1. Record the complete bearing number
Include spaces, prefixes and suffixes. Examples include 6410, 6205-2Z and tapered-roller references such as 30207.
Bridge Engineering identification guide
NILOS Ring Identification
Identify the likely NILOS sealing-ring family from the bearing reference, the ring being sealed and whether the bearing already has integral shields or seals.
Selection must be verified: confirm the exact bearing designation, arrangement, available installation space and current manufacturer dimension table before ordering or machining adjacent components.
Start with the bearing reference
2. Decide which bearing ring is sealed
AV types seal against the outer bearing ring. JV types seal against the inner bearing ring.
3. Check for integral shields or seals
For suitable bearings already fitted with shields or seals, the corresponding ZAV or ZJV variation may be required.
Common NILOS type guide
| Type | Typical purpose | Designation example | Check before selection |
|---|---|---|---|
| AV | Externally sealing arrangement: sealing edge runs against the bearing outer ring. | 6410 AV | Ring bore must locate closely and concentrically on the shaft. |
| JV | Internally sealing arrangement: sealing edge runs against the bearing inner ring. | 6410 JV | Outside edge must locate centrally and concentrically in the housing bore. |
| ZAV | Outer-ring sealing variation for a suitable bearing already incorporating shields or seals. | 6205 ZAV | Confirm the bearing suffix and that the Z variation is listed for the exact bearing. |
| ZJV | Inner-ring sealing variation for a suitable bearing already incorporating shields or seals. | 6205 ZJV | Confirm the available housing location and the exact catalogue designation. |
| AK | Double externally sealing, two-disc arrangement for selected tapered roller bearings. | 31311 AK | Confirm the complete cup-and-cone reference and fill the space between sealing edges with grease. |
The bearing reference normally forms the first part of the NILOS designation, followed by the ring type. Catalogue formatting may include spaces.
Installation information to collect
- Complete bearing reference and manufacturer.
- Open, shielded or sealed bearing construction.
- Which ring and adjacent component rotate.
- Shaft and housing locating diameters.
- Available axial space beside the bearing.
- Grease type and contamination conditions.
- Any keyways, threads, grooves or run-outs near the locating diameter.
- Photographs or a section drawing showing the bearing arrangement.
Important mounting points: fill the formed sealing groove with grease before first use, maintain concentric location and allow the catalogue installation space. The sealing edge forms its fine running groove during initial operation.
Send the bearing details for verification
Bridge Engineering can check the bearing reference, likely NILOS type and available alternatives before quotation.
Technical basis: current SKF NILOS product and installation guidance. Always use the current manufacturer table for final dimensions and suitability.