Keep the evidence with the model shortlist
The models on this page illustrate bearing roles; they are not confirmed replacements for an unspecified machine. Keep the original complete marking, machine position, load and speed duty, temperature, lubricant and mounting arrangement together. Check the candidate's recorded values below and leave unreported parameters unknown.
Check drawings and model records · Investigate a failure before replacing it · Plan installation and force paths
What matters in this application
Motion and holding duty
Record angular travel, dwell time, reversals and actuator force.
Environmental loads
Include the validated wind/stow load cases and outdoor contamination.
Support architecture
Identify the actual bearing type, permitted misalignment, structure and corrosion protection.
Which bearing structures make sense?
Spherical plain supports
Investigate when the joint requires angular movement and the design supports that load path.
Check first: Use plain-bearing pressure/velocity and wear guidance, not rolling L10.
Polymer or engineered slew units
Evaluate the specified material or complete drive assembly.
Check first: A standalone steel joint is not a replacement for a qualified tracker unit.
Recommended starting points
These candidates illustrate specific roles and envelopes, not a ranked list or interchangeable set. Review each condition before using a model in a design.
GE 20 ES
20×35×16 mmSpherical plain joint · 20 mm bore
A plain-bearing reference for a joint requiring angular movement rather than continuous high-speed rotation.
- Dynamic C
- 30 kN
- Static C₀
- 146 kN
- Limiting speed
- — rpm
Before selectionJoint-geometry reference only, not a complete tracker bearing or stow-load approval. Requires the specified maintenance/lubrication. Check plain-bearing wear and pressure/velocity guidance; do not use rolling L10 life.
Open complete model dataCompare the recorded specifications
Different sizes and bearing structures are shown for different duties. C and C₀ are catalogue load ratings, not permissible equipment loads. Limiting speed is not an approved operating speed.
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| Parameter | SKFGE 20 ES |
|---|---|
| Bore d (mm) | 20 |
| Outside D (mm) | 35 |
| Recorded width (mm) | 16 |
| Dynamic C (kN) | 30 |
| Static C₀ (kN) | 146 |
| Catalogue limiting speed (rpm) | — |
— = not reported, or not directly comparable for a mounted unit. Width conventions differ for inserts, complete units and bearing assemblies; inspect the dimensional drawing. Values are read from the current BearingScope records, not estimated from model numbers.
Work through the selection
- Identify the tracker joint and approved load/stow cases.
- Evaluate forces, angular motion and outdoor exposure.
- Verify material, wear, corrosion protection, lubrication and structural interfaces.
- Validate actuator torque and the complete tracker's operating/stow behavior.
Symptoms worth checking
High breakaway torque
Inspect joint alignment, contamination, corrosion and lubrication.
Increasing play
Compare wear against the equipment limits and review the actual load cycle.
Symptoms are investigation prompts, not a diagnosis. Isolate equipment safely and follow its maintenance procedures before inspection.
Have the original designation?
Look up the complete model and suffix before comparing potential alternatives.
Application questions, answered
Is rolling-bearing L10 life appropriate for this GE 20 ES reference?
No. It is a spherical plain bearing. Use the relevant plain-bearing wear, pressure/velocity and lubrication method.
Does a bearing rating establish the tracker's wind-load capacity?
No. The structure, joints, actuator and stow strategy must be evaluated together.
Reference basis & recommendation limits
- SKF — Bearing selection process
Application principles are informed by the listed technical references. Model shortlists are BearingScope editorial selections from its database, not manufacturer endorsements or equipment-fit approvals. Confirm the latest exact specification and the complete equipment design before use.