Ball and roller bearings are available with different types of shields and seals. These are commonly referred to as closures. Closures can extend bearing life by preventing contaminants from reaching the critical surfaces inside the bearing, and they help retain the lubricant in the bearing. Different types of closures may be supplied on the same bearing. Special designs are also available.

The selection of shields is dependent on the application and environment. Depending on the environment, shield/seal designs are offered with varying degrees of contamination resistance and torque (friction) characteristics. The seal lip can be further optimized by selecting either “standard” contact or “light” seal lip design which is dependent on torque and contamination conditions.

it is critical to consult with a bearing application engineer in selecting the appropriate enclosure for your application to ensure the correct choice.