EN 3287:1994

Overview

EN 3287:1994 is a European aerospace standard developed by CEN that specifies the dimensions, loads, and characteristics of double row self-aligning ball bearings in steel, belonging to diameter series 2. These bearings are designed for airframe rolling applications within aircraft structures, where they facilitate slow rotations, oscillations, and swivelling movements under load. Operating effectively in temperature ranges from -54°C to +150°C, these bearings are critical components for reliable and safe aircraft control mechanisms and fixed-to-moving part interfaces.

Key Topics

• Bearing Type: Double row self-aligning ball bearings in steel, diameter series 2
• Operational Use: Intended for slow rotational speeds, oscillatory motions, and swivelling under load
• Temperature Range: Suitable for harsh aerospace environments from -54°C up to +150°C
• Structural Integration: Bearings designed for use between fixed and moving parts of aircraft frameworks and their control systems
• Dimension & Load Specifications: Precise dimensional criteria and load capacities to ensure consistent performance and safety compliance
• Material Grade: Steel bearings optimized for aerospace durability and resistance under dynamic mechanical stress

Applications

EN 3287:1994 bearings are tailored specifically for aerospace industry needs, and their use cases include:

• Aircraft Airframe Rolling Components: Supporting moving joints that require self-aligning ability to accommodate structural flexing and alignment variations
• Control Mechanism Assemblies: Facilitating precise oscillation and swivelling movements within control linkages and actuators
• Structural Hinges and Joints: Ensuring smooth, reliable load-bearing rotation and oscillation between rigid parts in the airframe
• Environmental Resilience Components: Functioning reliably in extreme temperature conditions experienced during flight operations and ground handling
• Maintenance and Replacement Standards: Providing a standardized basis for selecting and replacing bearings in aerospace maintenance programs to improve durability and safety

Related Standards

EN 3287:1994 belongs to a broader set of aerospace component standards and is often referenced alongside:

• EN Aerospace Bearing Series: Covering other types of rolling bearings and dimension series suited for various aerospace applications
• ISO Aerospace Bearings Standards: International norms defining bearing materials and performance criteria for aerospace engineering
• Material and Heat Treatment Standards: Governing the steel composition and treatment processes compatible with aerospace grade bearings
• Environmental and Testing Standards: Documenting testing procedures for temperature, load, and lifespan validation of aerospace bearings
• Aircraft Structural Standards (e.g., EN 9100): Addressing overall quality and reliability frameworks where these bearings are integrated

By adhering to EN 3287:1994, manufacturers and aerospace engineers ensure the use of high-quality, dimensionally consistent double row self-aligning steel ball bearings that meet specific load and temperature requirements critical for aircraft safety and performance. This standard helps in optimizing component interchangeability, maintenance efficiency, and operational reliability in demanding aerospace environments.