Ceramic hybrid bearings are comprised of ceramic rolling elements (balls) enclosed in a ferrous (typically steel) inner and outer race. Since these bearings are constructed from many materials, they often operate in hybrid capacities. We also build ceramic bearings (i.e., bearings with ceramic races), but they are not as common because they are less durable.

We construct the rolling elements in ceramic bearings using several ceramic materials, including

• Silicon nitride (Si3N4)

• Aluminum oxide (Al2O3)

• Zirconium oxide (ZrO2)

• Silicon carbide (SiC)

Applications that involve high speeds and high loads often involve ceramic bearings. These bearings offer several benefits over conventional steel bearings, including enhanced acceleration capability, increased stiffness, and reduced friction. Hybrid ceramic bearings also offer the benefit of not allowing electrical currents to run through the bearing, which allows for prolonged use