Thrust Bearing Types Explained: How They Work and How to Choose One
A thrust bearing is a bearing built to carry axial load, the push that runs along a shaft instead of across it. Picture a…
Read articleCompare leading global bearing brands and explore compatible TFL alternatives by model, product type and application.
View all Brands GuideMatch manufacturer part numbers with interchangeable TFL bearing options and model-selection support.
Browse bearing solutions by equipment, operating environment and industry.
Practical guidance on bearing selection, applications, maintenance and sourcing.
A thrust bearing is a bearing built to carry axial load, the push that runs along a shaft instead of across it. Picture a…
Read article
Find answers about quality, orders, technical support and after-sales service.
Use our articles, reference tools and customer resources to support sourcing decisions.
Learn about TFL Bearing, our quality systems and supply capabilities.
View all About & CapabilitiesAccess engineering support and services throughout the purchasing process.
View all Services & SupportExplore customer projects, sourcing partnerships and ways to contact our team.
View all Work With TFL
The W 638/3-2Z is a compact stainless steel deep groove ball bearing, measuring just 3mm by 7mm by 3mm. It handles radial loads up to 40 lbf and spins smoothly at speeds up to 80,000 RPM.
Its shielded design keeps grease in and dirt out, making it low-maintenance. The all-stainless construction ensures corrosion resistance and durability.
This bearing works well in temperatures from -30°C to 120°C, suitable for various environments. It’s interchangeable with SKF bearings for easy replacement.
Ideal for small devices like medical instruments or precision tools where space is limited. Compliant with RoHS and REACH standards, it’s a safe and reliable choice.
Weighing only 0.00041kg, it’s lightweight yet robust for its tiny size. The grease lubrication ensures smooth operation over time.
Why Choose W 638/3-2Z Bearing for Precision Tasks?
W 638/3-2Z Bearing is crafted with stainless steel rings and balls, ensuring excellent corrosion resistance.
Its compact size of 3 mm×7 mm×3 mm makes it ideal for precision instruments and small machinery.
The shielded design protects against contaminants while maintaining smooth operation.
With a maximum speed of 80,000 rpm, it delivers reliable performance in high-speed applications.
Common Applications of W 638/3-2Z Bearing
W 638/3-2Z Bearing is widely used in small industrial equipment, such as miniature motors and precision instruments, where its compact size and shielded design prevent dust ingress. The stainless steel construction ensures corrosion resistance, ideal for humid or washdown environments.
In automotive applications, W 638/3-2Z Bearing fits well in compact components like sensors or small actuators, offering reliable radial load support. Its grease lubrication allows for maintenance-free operation, reducing long-term servicing needs.
For medical devices, W 638/3-2Z Bearing’s small footprint and smooth operation make it suitable for delicate instruments like dental tools or diagnostic equipment. The P0 tolerance class ensures consistent performance in critical settings.
Automation systems benefit from W 638/3-2Z Bearing in robotic joints or linear guides, where high-speed capability (up to 80,000 rpm) is essential. The lightweight design also minimises energy consumption in continuous operations.
In consumer electronics, W 638/3-2Z Bearing can be found in devices like cooling fans or small printers, where quiet operation and durability are key. The metric sizing ensures easy integration with standard components.