RC-Monster Forums - Boca Bearings vs. Acer bearings...ceramic sets.

Quote:

Originally Posted by JThiessen (Post 252264)

From an engineering design standpoint, ceramics usually only come into play when heat and the resulting thermal expansion are an issue, or if you are on the cutting edge with weight or rolling resistance. IMHO, the bearings in RC's are not subject to high enough heat levels to succumb to heat issues. Most of our failures are due to outside elements (dirt and rust) being introduced inside the bearing. That being said, if you look at one of Ryu's first posts, he spoke of a rating on the bearings. In all likelyhood, most ceramic bearings are made to a higher standard than your standard Traxxas rubber "sealed" bearings due to manufacturing costs (ceramic being more expensive to machine). If you can find steel bearings made to the same spec level, and at significantly lower price you'll be just fine. Those "standard" kits that Bocca sells are an excellent bearing that will likely outlast the RC flavor of the month!

When ever someone is competing and they need any edge they can get, moving to a ceramic is a great way to go. reducing overall rolling resistance is an advantage in tight races. but with the reduced resistance comes new issues and may drivers comment on the fact that they have to "relearn" to drive now that their car is so much freer spinning.

But there is no doubt that many RC Cars also have an excessive heat issue in the clutch bell. As a result typical steel balls expand and break apart the bearing retainer that hold the balls in place. Ceramic hybrids work great in this situation because ceramic will not expand under high temps. Usually it is also best to use a full complement bearing that does not have a retainer as well like this one. These are not for everyone, but only for those that are fed up with constantly changing out their clutch bell bearings. we also have a standard steel bearing with no retainer that is less expensive and very effective as well depending on the clutch bell. and then of course there is always the 99 Cent version for those that don't mind swapping them out often.

And I agree most ceramic bearings are made to a better standard than any stock bearing. rc car manufacturers have to keep their price points low on stock equipment to allow for upgrades. Our standard, 99 cent kits are super durable and should certainly last longer than the stock bearings. as you said most failures are a result of outside elements and ceramic is impervious to many of them. they will not corrode or rust, ceramic balls are harder than steel balls so they take more abuse and can even break down small pieces of dirt, pebbles and debris better than steel. there is always some level of cost/benefit that needs to be done, we just strive to offer the finest bearings in everyone's price range.

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BOCA BEARING COMPANY
755 NW 17th Ave. #107
Delray Beach, FL 33445 U.S.A.

Toll free phone: (800) 332-3256
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