8 - Bearings

Abstract

This chapter describes two general categories of bearings: rolling element bearings and journal bearings. Rolling element bearings are the most common bearings in usage. On the other hand, journal bearings have their place on some types of equipment. Rolling element bearings consist of four basic components: the inner ring, the outer ring, the cage or separator or retainer, and the rolling elements; either balls or rollers. The inner ring is mounted on the shaft with the rolling elements between it and the outer ring, which goes in the housing. Rolling element bearings can be grouped into two basic types: ball bearings and roller bearings. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. Bearings are one of the earlier manufactured items to have become standardized. Today, almost all bearings are made to a strict standard, for many features, that is the same around the world in many aspects, especially in the areas of boundary plan and tolerances.