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TYPES AND FEATURES OF ROLLING BEARINGS

Design and Classification

Rolling bearings generally consist of two rings, rolling elements, and a cage, and they are classified into radial bearings or thrust bearings depending on the direction of the main load. In addition, depending on the type of rolling elements, they are classified into ball bearings or roller bearings, and they are further segregated by differences in their design or specific purpose.

The most common bearing types and nomenclature of bearing  parts  are  shown  in  Fig.1.

Characteristics of Rolling Bearings

Compared with plain bearings, rolling bearings have the following major advantages:
(1) Their  starting  torque or friction is low and  the difference between the starting torque and running torque is small.
(2) With the advancement of worldwide standardization, rolling bearings are internationally available and interchangeable.
(3) Maintenance, replacement, and inspection are easy because the structure surrounding rolling bearings is simple.
(4) Many rolling bearings are capable of taking both radial and axial loads simultaneously or independently.
(5) Rolling bearings can be used under a wide range of temperatures.