Overview
ISO 10285:2007 - Rolling bearings - Sleeve type linear ball bearings - Boundary dimensions and tolerances - specifies the boundary dimensions, tolerances and definitions for sleeve type linear motion ball bearings. It defines the dimensional series, symbols, terms and tolerance classes used to describe sleeve (sleeve-type) linear ball bearings that use recirculating balls to provide unlimited linear motion along a shaft.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and definitions: Clear definitions for terms such as sleeve type linear ball bearing, nominal bore diameter of ball complement, nominal outer sleeve width, radial runout, and the three sleeve types - closed, adjustable and open.
- Boundary dimensions: Dimension series (series 1, 3 and 5) and the associated boundary dimensions (F, D, C, b, E, α, etc.) are given in tabulated form (Table 1 and related tables). Note: specific size ranges and values are provided in the standard’s tables.
- Tolerance classes: Manufacturing precision is defined by tolerance classes L9, L7, L7A, L6, L6A, L6J and L6JA. Tables 2–8 list the permissible deviations for each class and series.
- Applicability rules: Which tolerance classes apply to which series and sleeve types (for example, L9 for series 1 closed/adjustable; L7/L6 for series 1 and 3 closed; L7A/L6A for series 3 open/adjustable; L6J/L6JA for series 5).
- Shaft tolerances: Emphasises matching bearing tolerances with shaft dimensional and geometrical tolerances; full shaft specifications are referenced to ISO 13012.
- Symbols and measurement: Uses symbols from ISO 15241 and provides figures illustrating bearings with and without snap ring grooves; special notes on measurement practices (e.g., D dimensions for split/open bearings measured after fitting into a ring gauge).
Applications and practical value
- ISO 10285:2007 is essential for design, manufacture and quality control of sleeve-type linear ball bearings used where smooth, low-friction linear motion and low actuation forces are required.
- Typical practical uses include precision linear guides in machine tools, automation systems, positioning stages, and other linear motion components where controlled tolerances and interchangeability are important.
- The standard enables consistent specification between manufacturer and user (selection of series, tolerance class, housing and shaft fit), improving interchangeability, performance predictability and inspection consistency.
Who should use this standard
- Bearing manufacturers and component designers
- Mechanical design and application engineers specifying linear guides
- Quality assurance and metrology teams performing tolerance checks
- Procurement and standards compliance personnel
Related standards
- ISO 1132-1 (tolerances - terms and definitions)
- ISO 5593 (rolling bearings vocabulary)
- ISO 13012 (shafts and accessories for linear motion recirculating ball sleeve type)
- ISO 15241 (symbols for quantities)
Keywords: ISO 10285:2007, sleeve type linear ball bearings, boundary dimensions, tolerances, linear motion bearings, tolerance classes, shaft tolerances, recirculating ball bearings.
