Rolling bearings usually consist of an inner ring, an outer ring, rolling elements, and a cage that ensures the uniform positioning of the rolling elements. Depending on the type of load they carry, bearings are divided into radial bearings, designed mainly to carry radial loads, and thrust bearings, which operate under axial loads.

According to the type of rolling elements, bearings are divided into ball bearings and roller bearings. Roller bearings, in turn, are classified by the design features of the rollers and their field of application. The main types of rolling bearings and the names of their main components are shown in Figure 1, while the general classification of bearings is shown in Figure 2.

Terminology of bearing components
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Figure 1. Terminology of bearing components

Characteristics of Rolling Bearings

Compared with plain bearings, rolling bearings have several significant advantages:

  1. 01

    A low coefficient of friction and a small starting torque provide easy rotation and minimal energy losses during operation.

  2. 02

    Thanks to standardization and compliance with international standards, rolling bearings are highly interchangeable and widely used in the global market.

  3. 03

    The design of bearing units is relatively simple, which makes installation, removal, maintenance, and replacement easier.

  4. 04

    Most types of rolling bearings can carry both radial and axial loads, either simultaneously or separately.

  5. 05

    Bearings can operate efficiently across a wide range of working temperatures.

  6. 06

    The ability to apply preload makes it possible to reduce or completely eliminate internal clearance, increasing the rigidity and accuracy of the unit.

Classification of rolling bearings
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Figure 2. Classification of rolling bearings

You can learn more about each bearing on the website's home page.