The number is only part of the designation
A bearing enquiry often begins with a number such as 6204. That identifies a bearing family and size, but the complete designation can also describe the closure, clearance and other features. Two bearings with the same basic number may therefore have different specifications. Copy the full marking from the bearing, box or machine parts list.
Open bearings
An open bearing has no integral shields or seals closing the sides. The surrounding assembly and its lubrication arrangement are part of the application. Open bearings should not be treated as automatic substitutes for closed variants simply because the main dimensions match.
Shielded variants
SKF uses Z for a shield on one side and 2Z for shields on both sides. Shields are non-contacting closures. They are different from contact seals, and the bearing catalogue is the reference for the exact construction and operating limits.
Sealed variants
SKF seal designations include RS1 and other seal families such as RSH. The prefix 2 indicates closures on both sides in designations such as 2RS1. Seal types differ by design; a generic description such as rubber sealed does not identify every feature. Other manufacturers use their own suffix systems, so suffixes should be checked within the relevant brand catalogue.
Buying bearings in Chennai
For SKF bearings in Chennai or another specified make, send South India Bearing Co. the full designation and quantity. Include all characters after the basic bearing number. A clear photograph helps preserve markings that are difficult to read. Use the ball bearing page and SKF catalogue links below to locate the product information.
Related products and catalogues
Browse the relevant South India Bearing Co. product pages for range details, manufacturer catalogues and quotation enquiries.