Bearings - The Different Types and What They Are Used For

There are many different types of bearings used,A thrust ball bearing consists of two steel
all have benefits and disadvantages to them andwashers with balls situated within them. They are
so are used for different purposes and inmostly used for low speed appliances and can't
different circumstances.handle heavy loads, for example they can be
Ball Bearingfound in swivel bar stools and turn tables.
A ball bearing uses a ball to rotate and move theTaper Roller Bearing
load. Ball bearings are cheaper than other bearingsTapered roller bearings are used to support large
used such as cylinders in roller bearings and haveradial and thrust loads. It consists of a series of
high accuracy. When moving lighter loads balltapered or conical rollers held in a cage between
bearings do not have as much friction as rollerinner and outer bearing tracks. They are used in
bearings, and can support radial and axel loads.many car hubs. The disadvantages to taper roller
Radial loads are perpendicular to the shaft andbearings are that they are usually quite expensive
axel loads are parallel.and they add more friction than a ball bearing.
Roller BearingNeedle Bearing
Roller bearings use cylinders instead of balls andNeedle bearings are similar to roller bearings but
usually have a larger diameter. Roller bearings canthe cylinders are thinner and longer like needles.
support radial loads, usually of a higher capacityThese are used sometimes as they reduce the
than ball bearings can, but have higher friction withfriction of the rotating surface. Needle bearings
axial loads. Roller bearings are commonly used inare used in engines and engine parts and
rotary appliances and in machinery.transmissions; the drive shaft of a rear wheel
Thrust Ball Bearingdrive car has at least 8 needle bearings.