The Schaeffler Group’s X-life certified bearings offer outstanding performance and extended bearing life, providing significant benefits in manufacturing and logistics processes.
What is X-life technology?
More endurance. Greater load carrying capacity. Extraordinary flexibility.
Parkour runners need increased endurance, resistance under load and amazing flexibility. These are the qualities that enable them to overcome the most challenging obstacles – and the same is true for Schaeffler’s X-life quality, high-performance roller bearings and linear products: X times longer life, X times higher load capacity and X times more efficient space utilization combine to deliver the perfect run.
X-life is a premium certification class awarded to INA and FAG brand bearings for outstanding performance compared to industry standards. These bearings have been optimized according to the Schaeffler Group’s stringent development and quality control procedures.
Key benefits of X-life bearings
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Higher load capacity and longer service life
X-life bearings have a specially optimised internal geometry, which results in a larger contact surface between the rolling elements and raceways, thus ensuring a smoother distribution of forces.
The result:
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- Up to 50% longer life compared to conventional bearings
- Increased dynamic load capacity, reducing maintenance requirements and downtime
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Reduced friction and energy efficiency
Thanks to more precise manufacturing processes, the internal friction of X-life bearings is significantly reduced, which provides the following benefits:
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- lower temperature rise during operation
- lower energy consumption, which reduces operating costs
- less lubricant consumption, which increases sustainability
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Increased reliability and reduced maintenance requirements
The more uniform surface quality and more precise machining of X-life bearings significantly reduces the risk of corrosion and wear. This is particularly beneficial in demanding industrial applications, such as:
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- production lines and automated systems
- logistics transport equipment
- heavy industrial and construction machinery
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Intelligent sensing capabilities
X-life bearings are increasingly combined with smart sensors and condition monitoring systems. Schaeffler OPTIME, for example, is a wireless predictive maintenance solution that can continuously monitor the condition of X-life bearings and predict failures.
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- reduce the number of unexpected stoppages
- automatic notifications of bearing status
- optimised maintenance scheduling
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Increased precision and stability
These bearings have more precise raceways that help reduce vibration and noise. This is particularly important in high speed or precision industrial applications, for example:
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- CNC machines
- robot arms and automated production lines
- medical and laboratory equipment
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Improved performance in extreme environments
X-life bearings are also available with special coatings and materials for environments where:
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- high temperatures or chemical stress (e.g. food, chemical industry)
- high humidity or corrosion hazards (e.g. marine applications, water treatment plants)
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Wide range of products
X-life bearings are available in the following versions:
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- ball bearings (deep groove, angular contact, self-aligning)
- cylindrical and tapered roller bearings
- needle roller bearings
This makes them suitable for almost all applications, from fast-moving, precision machines to heavy-duty industrial systems.
Possible disadvantages
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Higher initial purchase cost
X-life bearings can be more expensive than conventional alternatives because they use more advanced technology and more precise manufacturing processes. However, the longer life and lower maintenance costs may result in an overall lower total cost of ownership (TCO).
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Suitable lubricants may be required
Although X-life bearings operate with reduced friction, their performance requires the right lubrication technology. Schaeffler’s own Tribo-Technology lubrication solutions are recommended. Using the wrong lubricant can reduce the bearing’s rating life.
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Correct mounting required
These bearings require more precise mounting, especially in high speed or high load applications. If they are not fitted correctly, performance gains will not be noticeable and may even lead to reduced life.
Interesting facts
X-life bearings are used not only in industrial machinery, but also in high performance airplanes and automobiles, where lower friction helps reduce energy consumption and wear. They also have sustainability benefits, as they reduce material loss and energy consumption during the manufacturing process. It is also widely used in industrial robotics as it provides more precise operation with lower maintenance requirements.
Why choose these bearings?
If you’re looking for long-term reliability, lower maintenance costs, greater energy efficiency and improved performance for industrial equipment, this range could be an excellent choice.
X-life is not just a premium bearing – it’s a smart investment that reduces Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), increases operational reliability and contributes to more sustainable industrial operations. Combined with intelligent sensor technology, it enables automated condition monitoring and predictive maintenance, further reducing unexpected failures and downtime.
Is this exactly the solution you’ve been waiting for?
Contact our colleagues!
You can find Schaeffler’s complete X-life product range HERE.
