This is often a source of confusion. Many years ago, steel balls were known as “ball bearings”. The term is still used by many people but we, in the bearing trade, call a steel ball a “steel ball” (surprise, surprise!) and to us, a "ball bearing" is a complete assembly with inner and outer ring and balls in-between. This is sometimes referred to as a “ballrace” or a "cartridge bearing" by people outside the bearing trade.

If you want to get technical, the full name of a standard ball bearing such as a skateboard bearing, for example, is a "deep groove radial ball bearing".

Our determination to remain specialised gives us a high level of product knowledge, providing bearing and lubrication solutions to existing or potential customers, whether individuals or large corporations. We don’t just sell bearings, we help to solve your problems. - Chris Johnson, managing director of SMB Bearings.