Ball bearing bearing MEGAOHM™

ceramicsteelbrass

MEGAOHM™ — Insulated bearing protecting electric motors from electrical erosion

Overview
The MEGAOHM™ insulated bearing is engineered to protect electric motors from damage caused by stray/high-frequency currents. It features a thick alumina ceramic coating on the outer ring to provide elevated electrical resistance, preserve lubrication and reduce surface damage that leads to premature failures.

Electrical erosion — phenomenon and consequences
Electrical erosion occurs when stray currents pass through a bearing. Repeated discharges produce pitting, cracking and lubricant deterioration, which significantly shorten bearing life and can cause premature motor failure and higher maintenance costs.

How stray-current damage develops

• Electric current flows through the bearing.
• Current leakage weakens the material and lubricant.
• Small metal particles detach from bearing components.
• Particles circulate and cause pitting and cracks on rolling surfaces.

Protection solutions compared

• Conductive greases — dissipate current; electrical effectiveness low and unstable; typical for small motors and domestic appliances.
• Insulated bearings (resin) — insulation on outer ring; effective up to ~1,000 V but not above ~120°C; cost-effective for low-voltage motors.
• Ceramic insulated bearings (MEGAOHM™) — alumina coating on outer ring; very high resistance up to 3,000 VDC; suited to AC motors, wind turbines and generators.
• Hybrid bearings — full insulating solution providing permanent protection for the most demanding applications (EVs, high-speed, aerospace).

How MEGAOHM™ protects bearings

• High-performance electrical insulation: thick alumina ceramic coating on the outer surface of the outer ring.
• High electrical resistance: protection up to 3,000 VDC.
• Interchangeable dimensions: compatible with standard bearings for straightforward replacement.
• Cage options: steel and brass cages depending on motor size.

Applications

• AC and DC motors
• Servomotors
• Pumps, fans and compressors
• Wind turbines and generators
• Electric vehicles and other high-speed or aerospace applications

Benefits

• Maximum protection against stray currents (up to 3,000 VDC).
• Extended bearing and motor service life by reducing pitting, cracking and lubricant deterioration.
• Interchangeability with standard bearings for quick maintenance response.

Technical specifications

• Product type: Insulated bearing (ceramic-coated outer ring) — MEGAOHM™
• Insulation material: Thick alumina ceramic coating on outer ring
• Electrical resistance rating: Up to 3,000 VDC
• Cage options: Steel cage and brass cage (depending on motor size)
• Interchangeability: Dimensions compatible with equivalent standard bearings
• Standards: Manufactured to ISO 492, DIN 620 and JIS 1514 dimensional/tolerance standards