Heating allows the expansion of the bearing for a precise placement and alignment of the bearing on the shaft without risking any damage. Pressing (driving) a cold bearing onto a shaft can cause a bearing to misalign and a difference of as little as 0.001" can reduce it's lifespan by 50%. Induction heating is an electro-magnetic process that provides quick, even heating that uses a transformer with a short circuited secondary.  The heat is being generated at the molecular level within the bearing itself resulting in an even distribution throughout the bearing. Bearing heaters generate clean and even heat, and even heating means precision placement, resulting in extended beariNg Life.  Alternatives for heating such as hot oil baths and forge methods are messy and dangerous. Torches and element tops can create uneven heating & expansion and cause hot spots that can change the metallurgical properties of the bearing steel. Alway use the largest cross bar that will fit through bearings hole.  Heaters should not be placed on steel tables or carts and should be raised up about 18" from any heavily 'rebarred' concrete floor as they can soak up some of the heat inducing energy and prolong the heating times.  Bearings that are too large in diameter to be suspended from the cross bar can still be heated since induction heating does not require direct contact, also a bearing can sit on the base of the machine & the cross bar can be placed through the hole. Catalogue Raising Blocks Raising blocks (sold in pairs) lift bearing heater crossbar to accommodate larger diameter bearings. Number Height Width Weight SCRB      2 3/8"   2 5/8"    7.5 lbs.    Fits SC Bearing Heaters BCRB     5"        3 3/8"   31.0 lbs.   Fits BC & BC Special What is an "Induction Heater"? Why use Bearing Heaters? Tips and Tricks Why should a Bearing be Heated?