How to Weld a Combined Bearing Hub or Mounting Plate

Confirm what is designed to be welded

Combined bearings normally use a weldable hub or can be supplied pre-welded to a mounting plate. The radial outer ring, axial roller and hardened running surfaces are not weld zones. Confirm the hub material and drawing before selecting the welding procedure.

Prepare the structure

• Machine or locate the hub opening from the approved mounting dimensions.
• Ensure the supporting plate or structure can carry the applied radial, axial and moment loads.
• Remove paint, scale, oil and contamination from the weld area without damaging seals.
• Mark the required axial-roller direction before inserting the bearing.

Control orientation and heat

The axial roller must face the intended guide direction. Verify orientation twice before welding because reversing the bearing after a completed weld can require destructive rework. Keep the welding arc and torch away from the rollers and seals. Use the qualified procedure for the hub and structural materials, minimise unnecessary heat input and allow cooling without quenching unless the approved process states otherwise.

When a mounting plate is safer

A pre-welded AP or custom plate makes the bearing removable and shifts critical welding away from the customer structure. It is often preferable where replacement access, repeatability or distortion control matters. The hole pattern, plate thickness, bearing datum and weld orientation must still match the complete assembly drawing.

Post-weld inspection

• Confirm the bearing remains square to its datum.
• Inspect the weld and surrounding plate according to the specified acceptance scope.
• Rotate both rolling elements and check for heat damage or binding.
• Recheck rail clearance across the full travel after final assembly.
• Protect machined and rolling surfaces during painting or coating.

For plate-mounted options, review the welded combined bearing guide or send the plate drawing for quotation.