Deep groove ball bearings are versatile, self-retaining bearings. These bearings, which are of simple design, robust in operation and easy to maintain, are available in single row and double row designs and in open and sealed variants.

Single row deep groove ball bearings are the most frequently used type of rolling bearing. They are produced in numerous sizes and designs and are particularly economical. Due to their very low frictional torque, open bearings are suitable for high and very high speeds. Bearing designs with gap seals are suitable for high speeds.

Single row deep groove ball bearings are only suitable for compensating static misalignments to a very limited extent. As a result, the bearing positions must be well aligned.

Double row deep groove ball bearings correspond in their structure to a pair of single row deep groove ball bearings but have two raceway grooves, each with one row of balls. Due to the larger number of rolling elements, they can be subjected to higher loads than single row deep groove ball bearings.

Double row bearings are used where the load carrying capacity of single row deep groove ball bearings is not sufficient. Since the bearings can also support loads due to tilting, they are suitable for particularly short shafts that are supported by only one bearing.