Bearing Basics and Types

Bearing Basics

• Bearings allow components to move with respect to each other
• Design engineers are responsible for selecting the right bearing for an application and specifying its requirements

Types of Bearings

• There are a wide range of bearing types
• Fluid bearings are frequently used in specific applications where:
  • High loads are involved
  • High speeds are required
  • High precision is necessary
  • Ordinary ball bearings would have a short lifespan or cause:
    • High noise
    • High vibration

Bearing Overview

• Bearings are machine elements that enable components to move with respect to each other.
• Selection of the right bearing for a specific application is the responsibility of the design engineer.

Fluid Bearings

• Frequently used in high-load, high-speed, or high-precision applications.
• Ideal for applications where ordinary ball bearings would have a short life or cause high noise and vibration.

Bearing Selection Criteria

• The bearing must fit into the available space in the mechanical design.
• The bearing must be able to withstand the load and environmental conditions.
• The bearing should be able to run for a specific number of cycles before losing its performance.
• The bearing must be able to operate at the specified speed without problems.
• The bearing should be easily assembled and disassembled.
• The bearing's frictional properties must be sufficient for the application.

Bearing Construction

• Outer raceway groove (outer ring)
• Ball
• Cage (holds the balls together)
• Inner raceway groove (inner ring)
• Seal

Bearing Performance

• The bearing must be able to take care of possible misalignments and deflections.
• Lubrication is a critical aspect of bearing performance.