GMW bearings for cold and cryogenic applications with the suffix ‘LT2’ are a specialised product line designed to operate reliably in low temperatures (down to about −73°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 −73°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 −73°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