Overview
EN ISO 8826-2:1997 (ISO 8826-2:1994) provides rules for a detailed simplified representation of rolling bearings in technical drawings. The standard is intended for cases where the exact 3‑D shape and fine details of bearings are not required-typical example: assembly drawings and general machine layouts. It complements Part 1 (general simplified representation) by showing more bearing-specific features (rows, alignment capability, etc.) while still reducing drawing complexity.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and purpose: Specifies how to depict various rolling bearings in a simplified but informative way so that function and fit are clear without full detailing.
- Method of representation:
- The drawing space occupied by a bearing shall be circumscribed by a square or rectangle.
- In views perpendicular to the bearing axis, rolling elements are normally shown above the horizontal axis; vertical-axis conventions are also covered.
- The rolling element may be shown as a circle regardless of its actual shape (ball, roller, needle).
- Elements of the detailed representation:
- Axis lines (long continuous straight line or arc) indicating rolling element axis and possible alignment.
- Short cross lines or symbols indicating number of rows and their positions.
- Alternative simple shapes for rolling elements (circle, narrow/wide rectangle) to represent ball, roller, needle‑roller, etc.
- Combinations and tables:
- The standard includes tables and example figures that map combinations of bearing types and load‑bearing characteristics to their simplified symbols (single/double row ball, cylindrical, tapered, spherical, needle, thrust and combined bearings).
- Drawing practice guidance:
- Use only one kind of simplification (general or detailed) on a drawing to avoid misunderstandings.
- Annex A is informative and a bibliography lists related ISO bearing and drawing standards.
Applications and who uses it
- Mechanical designers and design engineers: to create clear assembly drawings without overloading documentation with unnecessary geometry.
- CAD drafters and technical illustrators: to standardize symbols and speed up drafting workflows.
- Bearing manufacturers and suppliers: for consistent representation in product literature and installation drawings.
- Maintenance and assembly technicians: for fast visual identification of bearing types and mounting arrangements.
- Useful in industries such as automotive, industrial machinery, aerospace, and any discipline using rolling bearings in assemblies.
Related standards
Keywords: EN ISO 8826-2, ISO 8826-2, rolling bearings, technical drawings, simplified representation, assembly drawings, bearing symbols, mechanical engineering drawings, CAD drafting standards.