The SKF 81208 TN is a high-performance single-row, single-direction cylindrical roller thrust bearing manufactured by SKF, a global pioneer in bearing solutions and rotating equipment technologies. Engineered for heavy-duty axial load applications with moderate axial installation space, this bearing delivers superior load-carrying capacity compared to thrust ball bearings, while ensuring exceptional operational stability and long service life. It adopts a fully separable three-component structure: an axial cylindrical roller and cage assembly (K 81208 TN), a shaft locating washer (WS 81208), and a housing locating washer (GS 81208). This modular design simplifies mounting, dismounting and on-site maintenance, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of industrial scenarios.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value | Unit |
|---|
| Bearing Type | Single Row Cylindrical Roller Thrust Bearing, Single Direction | - |
| Inner Diameter (d) | 40 | mm |
| Outer Diameter (D) | 80 | mm |
| Height/Width (H/B) | 23 | mm |
| Cage Material | Glass fiber reinforced polyamide 66 (PA66) - designated by suffix "TN" | - |
| Dynamic Load Rating (Cₐ) | 122 | kN |
| Static Load Rating (C₀ₐ) | 265 | kN |
| Reference Speed (nθr) | 2,400 | rpm |
| Limiting Speed (nlim) | 4,500 | rpm |
| Temperature Range | -20 to +120 | °C |
| Closure Type | Open | - |
| Bore Type | Parallel | - |
Design Features & Benefits
- Fully Separable ComponentsThe roller-cage assembly, shaft washer and housing washer can be installed and disassembled independently. This feature not only streamlines maintenance and replacement procedures, but also enables component interchangeability within the same bearing series, reducing inventory costs and equipment downtime.
- Outstanding Axial Load CapacityOptimized logarithmic roller profile and precision-machined raceways ensure uniform load distribution across all rolling elements. The bearing can withstand heavy single-direction axial loads and moderate impact loads without deformation, providing high rigidity for precise machinery positioning.
- Space-Efficient DesignWith a compact axial height of 23 mm, the bearing maximizes load performance in limited installation space, supporting the downsizing of industrial equipment without compromising operational efficiency.
- Durable TN Cage TechnologyThe "TN" suffix indicates a glass fiber reinforced PA66 cage, which offers better wear resistance, lower friction coefficient and superior dimensional stability than standard polyamide cages. It performs reliably under fluctuating temperature and speed conditions, extending the bearing’s service life.
- Cost-Effective ReliabilitySKF’s advanced manufacturing processes and strict quality control ensure consistent product performance and tight dimensional tolerances. The bearing’s robust construction reduces maintenance frequency, lowering the total cost of ownership for industrial users.
Suffix Explanation
- 812: Core series code for medium-sized single-row cylindrical roller thrust bearings, designed for heavy axial loads with moderate axial space requirements.
- 08: Size code corresponding to an inner diameter of 40 mm, complying with international dimensional standards for the 812 series.
- TN: Designates a glass fiber reinforced polyamide 66 cage, balancing strength, friction reduction and temperature resistance for general industrial applications.
Typical Applications
The SKF 81208 TN is widely used in medium to heavy-duty industrial equipment, including:
- Industrial gearboxes, reducers and power transmission systems
- High-precision machine tool spindles and CNC machining centers
- Hydraulic pumps, motors and compressors under heavy load conditions
- Metal forming presses, stamping machines and forging equipment
- Conveyor systems and heavy material handling machinery
- Construction machinery and agricultural equipment components
- Marine auxiliary equipment and shipboard power systems
Installation Notes
For optimal performance and extended service life, follow these guidelines:
- Ensure precise alignment of all bearing components during installation to avoid misalignment-induced premature wear and noise.
- Select lubricants suitable for the operating temperature, speed and load; regular lubrication is recommended for continuous high-speed operation.
- Use SKF-specified mounting tools to prevent scratches or damage to the bearing’s precision raceways and rolling elements.
- Maintain the designed axial clearance or preload according to the equipment’s operational requirements.
- Never apply radial loads—this bearing is engineered exclusively for axial load support; radial loads will cause severe damage to the rollers and raceways.
- Adhere to SKF’s official mounting and dismounting procedures for separable cylindrical roller thrust bearings.
The SKF 81208 TN embodies SKF’s engineering excellence, combining heavy load capacity, space efficiency and operational reliability, making it an ideal choice for medium to heavy-duty axial load applications across various industrial sectors.

