🔩 Deep Groove Ball Bearing Types (2RS, ZZ, Open): Which One to Use and Why?

Deep groove ball bearings (DGBBs) are the most widely used bearings in the industrial world. But did you know that they come in different variants like 2RS, ZZ, Z, RS, and Open, each designed for specific operating conditions?

In this guide, we’ll help you understand:

• ✅ What each variant means (ZZ, 2RS, Open, etc.)

• ✅ Where to use them across industries

• ✅ Which is best by geography and cost-efficiency

• ✅ How to choose the right bearing for your machinery

🔍 Types of Deep Groove Ball Bearings

1. Open Type Bearings

• Code: No suffix (e.g., 6205)

• Seal: None

• Protection: No protection from dust or moisture

• Best for: Clean environments, closed housings

• Industries: Gearboxes, enclosed motors

• Pros: Highest RPM, lowest cost

  
  

2. Z / ZZ – Metal Shielded Bearings

• Code: Z (1-side), ZZ (2-side)

• Seal: Metal shields

• Protection: Dust-resistant, not waterproof

• Best for: Industrial machinery, power tools

• Industries: Pumps, fans, small electric motors

• Pros: Good speed, moderate protection

3. RS / 2RS – Rubber Sealed Bearings

• Code: RS (1-side), 2RS (2-side)

• Seal: Nitrile rubber seal

• Protection: Sealed against water, dust, and dirt

• Best for: Wet or dusty environments

• Industries: Washing machines, agriculture, outdoor machinery

• Pros: Excellent sealing, better longevity

4. RZ / 2RZ – Low Friction Sealed Bearings

• Code: RZ (1-side), 2RZ (2-side)

• Seal: Synthetic rubber, low-friction type

• Protection: Balanced sealing with higher speed

• Best for: Automotive wheels, HVAC motors

• Industries: Automotive, ventilation, appliance manufacturing

• Pros: Smooth rotation with moderate sealing

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🌍 Which Bearing Type is Best for Your Location?

Region	Recommended Variant	Reason
Coastal or Humid	2RS / 2RZ	Waterproof sealing against salt and moisture
Rural or Dusty	2RS	Full rubber sealing for mud and dust protection
Industrial/Urban	ZZ / RZ	Moderate protection with good speed
Indoor/Clean Room	Open / Z	High RPM needed, no contamination risk
High-Speed Motors	ZZ / RZ	Low resistance, high durability at speed

💡 Which Type of Ball Bearing Is Most Cost-Effective?

Type	Cost	Ideal For
Open	💰 Low	Controlled environments
ZZ	💰💰	General purpose with some dust protection
2RS	💰💰💰	Harsh or outdoor environments
RZ/2RZ	💰💰💰	Speed-sensitive with basic protection

Pro Tip: 2RS lasts longer in dirty or wet environments, reducing total maintenance cost even if the initial price is higher.

🏗️ Industry-Wise Application of Bearing Types

Industry	Recommended Type	Reason
Automotive	2RZ / ZZ	Speed + moderate sealing
Manufacturing Plants	ZZ	General-purpose, dust resistance
Agriculture	2RS	Protection from dirt, mud, and water
Appliances (Washing Machine, ACs)	2RS / RZ	Sealing against water and vibration
Electric Motors	Open / ZZ	High-speed rotation inside sealed housings

🧰 Final Guide to Choosing the Right Deep Groove Ball Bearing

Condition	Choose
High RPM, clean environment	Open
Moderate dust, indoor use	ZZ
High sealing, outdoor use	2RS
Speed + some protection	RZ / 2RZ
Budget-sensitive replacements	Z or Open

🔎 Common Bearing Model Examples

• 6201 ZZ – Standard for electric motors

• 6202 2RS – Perfect for washing machines, pumps

• 6203 ZZ / 2RZ – Used in fans and HVAC systems

• 6301 2RS – Suitable for agricultural machinery

• 608 ZZ / RS – Skateboards, trolleys, toys