Thin-Section Bearings for Robotics: KET 6700/6800 Models
The next generation of robotics—whether collaborative robots (cobots), surgical arms, or humanoid robots—demands components that push the limits of miniaturization. Standard bearings often take up too much radial space and add unnecessary weight to the robotic joints. To achieve sleek designs and high payloads, engineers are turning to thin-section bearings.
Ningbo Kexiang Bearing Technology Co., Ltd. (KET), an ISO9001-certified manufacturer, specializes in precision miniature bearings with an annual production of 100 million sets. Our thin-section deep groove ball bearings are explicitly designed to deliver maximum rotational accuracy in the smallest possible cross-section.
The Engineering Advantages in Robotic Joints
In a robotic arm, the motors and gear reducers are typically housed directly inside the joint. Using KET’s thin-section bearings provides three massive advantages:
- Extreme Space Saving: A very small difference between the inner and outer diameter leaves more internal room for wiring, optical encoders, and hollow-shaft motors.
- Significant Weight Reduction: Lower component weight decreases the inertia of the robotic arm, leading to faster acceleration, lower power consumption, and longer battery life.
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High Stiffness and Accuracy: Despite their thin walls, these bearings are precision-ground to provide excellent radial stiffness, ensuring zero-backlash movement and pinpoint positioning accuracy.
Specific KET Thin-Section Bearing Models for Robotics
For robotic applications requiring bore sizes between 10mm and 20mm, KET’s 6700, 6800, and 6900 series are the industry standard for thin-section deep groove ball bearings[cite: 8]. Below is a selection of highly recommended metric models for robotics R&D. These models are available in both open types and shielded types (ZZ) for dust protection:
| Model (Open / Shielded) | Inner Diameter (d) | Outer Diameter (D) | Width (B / B1) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6700 / 6700zz | 10 mm | 15 mm | 4 mm |
| 6800 / 6800zz | 10 mm | 19 mm | 5 mm |
| 6900 / 6900zz | 10 mm | 22 mm | 6 mm |
| 6701 / 6701zz | 12 mm | 18 mm | 4 mm |
| 6801 / 6801zz | 12 mm | 21 mm | 5 mm |
| 6901 / 6901zz | 12 mm | 24 mm | 6 mm |
| 6702 / 6702zz | 15 mm | 21 mm | 4 mm |
| 6802 / 6802zz | 15 mm | 24 mm | 5 mm |
*Note: The dimensions provided above (Inner Diameter x Outer Diameter x Width) correspond to the technical parameters of KET's Deep groove ball bearing 10-20mm metric series.
Automated Quality for Robotic Reliability
Manufacturing thin-section bearings is inherently difficult because the extremely thin walls are prone to deformation during grinding and heat treatment. KET overcomes this challenge through our fully automated assembly line and 100% inner/outer diameter sorting inspection. By strictly controlling the grinding process and utilizing automatic vibration testers, we ensure that every KET 6700/6800 series bearing maintains its structural integrity and acoustic excellence, guaranteeing flawless articulation in your robotic designs.
Looking for a reliable supply chain partner for precision miniature bearings? Discover more about our capabilities and customize your order today at KET Precision Bearings.
