GMW bearings for cold and cryogenic applications are a specialised product line designed to operate reliably in low temperature (down to about −60°C), where conventional bearings often fail due to lubricant thickening, material contraction, or increased friction.
Low-temperature deep groove ball bearings offer the following advantages:
- Wide temperature range:
Operate from −60°C to +110°C - Special low-temperature grease:
Maintains lubrication performance without frequent maintenance, reaching extremely low temperatures. (-73°C) - Increased radial clearance (multiple of C3):
Compensates for thermal contraction at low temperatures - Low thermal expansion materials:
Typically stainless bearing steels (AISI 440C / 9Cr18Mo) - Low anti-seizing and friction properties:
Prevents surface wear during operation in low-temperature environments
Suitability for low-temp applications
- Cryogenic pumps (liquid gases)
- Flash-freezing systems
- Frozen food conveyors
- Ice machines
- Outdoor equipment in cold climates
Design Considerations
GMW low-temp standard bearing designs with modifications such as
- Special grease formulation: prevents solidification at low temps
- Shielding/sealing options (ZZ, NBR seals): protect against moisture and ice formation
- Stabilised metallurgy: avoids brittleness in cold environments
- Compatibility with ISO standard sizes: easy replacement in existing systems
Comparison: Standard and Low-temperature bearings
| Feature | Standard bearings | GMW Low-temperature bearings |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum temperature | ~0°C to −20°C | Down to −60°C |
| Lubrication | Conventional grease | Low-temperature specialized grease, reaching extremely low temperatures. (-73°C) |
| Internal clearance | Normal (CN) | Increased (C3) |
| Material behavior | Risk of brittleness | Stabilized for cold |
| Applications | General industry | Cryogenic freezing systems |
Please also find product specifications by download our PDF catalog of GMW low-temperature deep groove ball bearings for high speeds here:

