Bearing Life Calculator (L10 / L10h per ISO 281)
Estimate the rated rolling bearing life L10 in millions of revolutions and in operating hours using the ISO 281 basic rating life equation L10 = (C/P)^p. Includes the life modification factor aISO for reliability, lubrication and contamination.
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How to use this calculator
- Enter the basic dynamic load rating C from the bearing datasheet (kN).
- Enter the equivalent dynamic bearing load P acting on the bearing (kN).
- Enter rotational speed n (rpm) and pick the bearing type (ball p = 3, roller p = 10/3).
- Apply the aISO factor if your datasheet or lubricant analysis provides one, otherwise leave at 1.0.
Frequently asked questions
What does L10 mean?
L10 is the rating life that 90 percent of a sufficiently large group of identical bearings will reach or exceed. It is a statistical value, not a guarantee for a single bearing.
What is the difference between L10 and L10h?
L10 is expressed in millions of revolutions. L10h converts it to operating hours: L10h = 1,000,000 * L10 / (60 * n).
When should I use p = 10/3 instead of p = 3?
Use p = 3 for ball bearings and p = 10/3 for roller bearings (cylindrical, tapered, spherical, needle).