Three Primary Components of a Ball Bearing

April 6, 2022

Most machine operators normally utilise a wide array of bearings thanks to their general function. Bearings are designed to support the relative motion of moving parts while reducing their friction. Once installed, they can help machines carry out operations without expecting any failure.

Numerous types of bearings can be maximised by operators. But one bearing type that they normally utilise is ball bearing. Ball bearings are rolling-element bearings that can reduce rotational friction, support axial and radial loads, and position mechanical machine components. These bearings are significantly beneficial for machines since they have a large operating range temperature and quality sealing shield. They can also increase motor performance and minimise installation and replacement expenses.

The effectiveness of ball bearings is possible thanks to their three primary components. These components are the balls, the races, and the cage.

1. Balls

Balls are the rolling elements of ball bearings. The total number of balls in a ball bearing may differ from others. However, these components are all maximised to transmit a load. As the ball bearings are exposed to a load, the balls will rotate, reducing the friction and transmitting the load of machine components. The rolling of the balls allows them to boast a much lower coefficient of friction. And since their contact with races is limited, the ball bearings are expected to have low load capacity.

There is a wide array of materials that can be used to manufacture the balls. Some of these materials are glass, ceramic, nylon, polypropylene, and acetal.

• Races

Races, on the other hand, serve as pathways for the balls. Ball bearings are typically comprised of an inner race and an outer race. These races boast a uniform groove in the centre, allowing balls to follow them as they roll. As long as the races are smooth and in good condition, they can effectively restrict the balls to their intended locations. Once damaged, the balls may have difficulties in rolling and carrying out their functions, causing eventual damages to the bearings and the machine components themselves.

• Cage

Cage, ultimately, is located between the inner and outer races of ball bearings. It serves as the container for the balls, separating them as they roll inside the bearings. With the cage, the surface contact between the balls will be prevented, allowing them to roll and carry out the main functions of ball bearings. The absence of a cage will only lead to the failure of ball bearings since the balls will roll next to each other and disrupt their rolling directions. The performance of the bearings, as well as the machine components, can also be affected if the cage is not present.

Ball bearings can possess various types of cages. They may vary based on the strength of the supporting force and the rotation speed.

To obtain quality ball bearings for your applications, you can contact us at Global Bearing Imports.

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