Bearing terminology
Bearing:
A bearing is a type of mechanical component used to support and guide another component as it moves relative to it. Bearings may be used for a wide range of motions or conditions, including rotational, linear or oscillatory. The type of bearing chosen for a particular application depends on the type of movement, load, accuracy, and environmental conditions present.
Roller bearing:
Roller bearings are cylindrical components that reduce friction between two circular surfaces. They generally have an inner and outer race, with many different types of rollers located between them. Common types of roller bearings include cylindrical, spherical, and tapered roller bearings.
Tapered roller bearing:
Tapered roller bearings are designed with a tapered inner and outer race. The rollers are also tapered so that they contact the inner and outer races at a smaller point than in a standard cylindrical bearing. Tapered roller bearings are typically used in applications that require high load capacity, such as vehicle wheel bearings and industrial equipment.
Thrust bearing:
Thrust bearings are designed to support axial loads, such as those created by propellers and turbines. They typically feature a flat inner race and a curved outer race that forms a cup-shape, with rolling elements in between. Thrust bearings are available in cylindrical and spherical designs, as well as tapered roller designs for increased load capacity.
Angular contact bearing:
Angular contact bearings are used in applications where high radial and axial loads need to be supported. The inner and outer races each feature a groove in which rolling elements are located. Angular contact bearings are self-aligning and can handle a high amount of misalignment between the shaft and the housing.
Needle roller bearing:
Needle roller bearings are thin and long cylindrical roller bearings, designed to carry light-medium loads in applications where space is restricted. They feature a cylindrical roller and a thin-walled outer race, which forms a cup shape. Needle roller bearings are typically used in applications such as automotive transmissions, speedometer drive mechanisms and sewing machines.
Radial bearing:
Radial bearings are designed to support radial loads that are directed perpendicularly to the shaft axis. They consist of an inner ring, an outer ring, and two rows of rolling elements. Radial bearings are usually used in lower torque applications, such as electric motors and automotive wheel bearings.
Deep groove ball bearing:
Deep groove ball bearings are the most common type of bearings. They consist of an inner and outer race, with a group of steel balls located between them. Deep groove ball bearings are versatile and can support both radial and axial loads. They are widely used in power transmission and automotive applications.
Self-aligning bearing:
Self-aligning bearings are designed to handle misalignment between the shaft and the housing. They can also handle twisting in the shaft axis, as well as misalignment in the radial direction. Self-aligning bearings feature two rows of steel balls, located between an inner and outer race.
