The principle of operation of bearings

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This article discusses the different types of bearings, their specific benefits, and how they extend the life and efficiency of various systems.

axle and bearings
Bearings provide smooth and efficient movement between two surfaces by minimizing contact and supporting moving or rotating parts. Rolling friction is the basis for how bearings work because it is significantly less than sliding friction. This means that there is less resistance when two surfaces roll over each other than when they slide exchange data against each other.

The rolling parts of a bearing distribute the load across their contact points with the rings when subjected to a load.

The different types of bearings are constructed relatively to support the entire weight. The weight of the load acts as the driving force to rotate the bearing, using the simple metallic function of the ball surface. The load capacity of a bearing is determined by the size, type and composition of its rolling elements, as well as the design of the cage and raceway.

how bearings work
Load support in bearings
This is the bearing's ability to withstand the forces to which it is subjected. There are two main types of loads supported by bearings:

1. Axial load
This is the force that acts parallel to the axis of rotation, often called "thrust." Axial loads occur when parts of a machine move in the direction of the axis. In automotive transmission systems, gears and shafts are used to transfer power. As the gears move and rotate, they exert an axial load along the shaft since they are moving in the same direction as the shaft's axis.

The bearings that support these types of loads are tapered roller bearings and thrust ball bearings.

2. Radial load
This load acts perpendicular to the axis of rotation. It occurs when the load exerts pressure from above on the bearing. In a conveyor belt system, the rollers that move and support the belt are subjected to radial loads. This is due to the weight of the materials on the conveyor, which exerts pressure on the rollers from above. The types of bearings that primarily handle these loads are ball bearings and roller bearings.