NKX and NKXR bearings are types of combined needle roller bearings that integrate a needle roller bearing for radial loads and a thrust bearing for axial loads, all in a compact, single assembly. These are used when a shaft needs to be supported in both radial and axial directions, but where space is limited.

NKX Bearing – Needle Roller + Thrust Ball Bearing

• Contains a needle roller bearing for radial load
• Contains a thrust ball bearing for axial load in one direction
• Requires an axial location system (e.g. a shoulder or housing ring) to secure it
• Usually includes a press-fit outer ring (not self-locating axially)
• Common in applications with unidirectional axial loads

Example:
NKX30 – Fits a 30 mm shaft, handles radial and one-way axial loads

NKXR Bearing – Needle Roller + Thrust Roller Bearing

• Contains a needle roller bearing for radial load
• Contains a cylindrical roller thrust bearing for higher axial load capacity
• Can be used in more demanding axial load applications compared to NKX
• Usually supplied as NKXR (open type) or NKXRS (sealed variant)
• Available with axial guidance built-in, meaning it may not require additional location devices

Example:
NKXR30 – Also fits a 30 mm shaft, supports radial and higher axial loads (in one direction)

NKX vs NKXR Summary

These bearings are often used in:

• Machine tools
• Pumps
• Gearboxes
• Packaging machinery
• Automation systems