TFL Bearing
Technical Clearance

Spherical Roller Bearing Clearance: CN, C3, and C4

Internal clearance is reduced by interference fits and by temperature differences between the rings. Select the initial class only after checking the required operating clearance, speed, load, vibration, lubrication, and machine position.

Bearing roundness and clearance inspection reference

Clearance Selection Table

Class Typical context Data to confirm
CNNormal operating conditionsModel, application, speed, load.
C3Higher running temperature or tighter fitTemperature, shaft fit, housing fit, speed.
C4High heat, heavy interference, or vibration-sensitive dutyApplication, heat range, duty cycle, current failure mode.
Special screen dutyVibrating screens and shaker equipmentScreen model, RPM, acceleration, cage, current suffix.

Clearance Article

Read the background on initial, mounted, and operating clearance.

Operating Clearance Check

As a screening relationship: operating clearance ≈ initial clearance − fit reduction − thermal reduction. The actual calculation depends on bearing geometry, measured fits, material, temperatures, load, and the applicable design method. Do not choose C3 or C4 from temperature alone.

Ask a Clearance Question

Send the application, speed, ring temperatures, bearing model, shaft and housing fits, current suffix, load, and observed failure symptoms.

Ask a Technical Question