Detailed Explanation of Bearing Types: Characteristics and Applications of 14 Types of Bearings

Bearings are critical components in mechanical equipment, primarily functioning to support rotating bodies and reduce friction and mechanical loads during transmission. There are various types of bearings, and below we will take a detailed look at the characteristics, differences, and applications of 14 common types of bearings.

✅Classified by load direction or nominal contact angle:
Radial bearings: Primarily used to support rotating bodies and reduce the coefficient of friction.
Thrust bearings: Primarily used to withstand axial forces, such as those in gear transmissions.

✅Classified by rolling element type:
Ball bearings: Rolling elements are balls, suitable for high-speed rotation and applications requiring high precision.
Roller bearings: Rolling elements are rollers, suitable for heavy loads and low-speed rotation applications.

✅Classification by self-aligning capability:
Self-aligning bearings: Allow for minor axial and radial misalignment, suitable for applications with significant installation errors.
Non-self-aligning bearings (rigid bearings): Have no self-aligning capability, suitable for applications requiring precise installation.

✅Classification by number of rolling element rows:
Single-row bearings: Only one rolling element row, suitable for simple support requirements.
Double-row bearings: Two rolling element rows, suitable for applications requiring higher support force.
Multi-row bearings: Three or more rolling element rows, suitable for heavy loads and special applications.

✅Classification by whether components can be separated:
Separable bearings: Rolling elements and cages can be separated, facilitating maintenance and replacement.
Non-separable bearings: Rolling elements and cages cannot be separated, suitable for compact installation spaces.

Additionally, bearings can be classified by structural shape and size. Understanding these different types of bearings can help us select the most suitable bearings for specific applications, thereby improving equipment performance and lifespan.