The workability of self-aligning roller bearings depends on the material properties of the bearings. Self aligning roller bearings are made of high-purity, low alloy quenched chromium steel as the material for manufacturing shaft rolling elements and bearing rings. The use of carburized steel is suitable for bearings that withstand alternating bending and high impact load stress.

The heat treatment process of the self-aligning roller bearing ring and rolling element ensures that the bearing is within 150 degrees and the size is stable. For higher working temperatures, special heat treatment methods are required. If bearings are used in corrosive environments, the bearing steel needs to be corrosive. Standard bearings made of stainless steel are prefixed with "S" and suffixed with "W203B" in their codes. The main dimensions and load-bearing capacity of this type of bearing are the same as those of integral quenched steel bearings. In order to maintain its corrosion resistance, its surface must not be damaged during installation and use.

In recent years, due to the continuous improvement in the quality of bearing steel (and of course, the price is also rising), self-aligning rollers have been able to significantly increase the bearing capacity of their bearings. Research results and practical experience have proven that bearings made of standard rolling bearing steel can achieve infinite fatigue strength under good lubrication, clean environment, and low load conditions.

The production of self-aligning roller bearings with silicon nitride balls is commonly used in ceramic spindle bearings. Ceramic balls are much lighter than steel balls, and their friction and centrifugal force are also significantly smaller than steel balls. This type of bearing can still achieve extremely high rotational speed under grease lubrication, and has low operating temperature and long service life.