Choosing between external and internal gear slewing bearings depends on your application’s mechanical and spatial requirements. External gear bearings have gear teeth on the outer circumference, offering easier access for drive pinions and simplified maintenance. They are ideal for applications with ample external space and high torque needs, such as cranes and excavators.

Internal gear bearings feature teeth on the inner ring, creating a compact design suitable for space-constrained environments. They provide better load distribution in certain configurations and are often used in robotics and medical equipment.

Consider drive system design: external gears allow direct pinion engagement from outside, while internal gears require pinion positioning inside the bearing diameter. Load capacity and moment resistance vary between types—external gears typically handle higher overturning moments. Evaluate your system’s space, torque, and maintenance access to make an informed decision.