Specialist supplier of miniature bearings, SMB Bearings, has introduced a new range of 316 grade stainless steel ball bearings.

The 316 bearing variety has been specially selected for customers with applications operating in harsh environments, which the bearings can withstand thanks to their marine grade stainless steel construction.

The bearings will find a home in food processing, chemical manufacture and pharmaceutical production as well as marine and other liquid process applications.

The 316 bearing range can withstand temperatures of up to 500˚C (if supplied without cages) and is highly resistant to seawater, salt spray and chemicals.

The key difference between 316 stainless steel bearings and other stainless steel bearings is the addition of molybdenum to the metal – an alloy which drastically enhances the corrosion resistance of the bearing.