What types of bearings are there?

Bearings are "parts that assist objects' rotation". They support the shaft that rotates inside the machinery.

Machines that use bearings include automobiles, airplanes, electric generators and so on. They are even used in household appliances that we all use every day, such as refrigerators, vacuum cleaners and air-conditioners.

Bearings support the rotating shafts of the wheels, gears, turbines, rotors, etc. in those machines, allowing them to rotate more smoothly.

There are various types of bearings, each with their own strengths. Do you know what kinds of machines use what kinds of bearings?

Most electric motors in industrial facilities consist of rolling element bearings, whether ball or roller bearings. As Automotive bearing supplier we will explore these different types of bearings and sealing methods in this article.

Sealed bearings

are usually used in smaller motor applications. These greatly limit the ingress of contaminants. These bearings are not relubricated, thus eliminating the need for relubrication, but will limit the overall life of the bearing. These bearings have a limited life and will need to be replaced at any sign of trouble.

Ball Bearing

For direct coupling applications. These can handle both axial and radial loads.

Roller Bearings

Used in belt applications, generally for motors with 150 HP and above. Motors require radial loads and cannot handle axial loads.

Open type bearings

These bearings are not shielded or sealed, so they minimise friction and allow the bearing to operate in colder conditions. With proper release, these bearings can be easily relubricated. However, as protection against contamination is limited, the entire bearing system must be designed to protect the bearing itself from contamination and designed to contain the grease in the bearing cavity.

Shielded bearings

These bearings restrict the entry of contaminants into the rolling elements during installation and operation. The shield helps to keep the lubricating fluid in the bearing chamber. The balls are relubricated with filled grease by retaining rings that feed the inner ring. These can be relubricated, but without any release, pressure builds up and forces the shield against the cage or rolling element.

Bearing Isolator

Sometimes referred to as Inpro/Seal (R), the rotary labyrinth seal is designed to protect the bearing. Before dust, water or other contaminants can enter the bearing from the atmosphere, it must pass through a labyrinth where it is subjected to centrifugal force and gravity. The contaminants are collected in a recess and discharged back into the atmosphere through a port in the motor stator. The labyrinth seal is fitted together with an open bearing, which can be relubricated and protected from environmental contamination.

By taking advantage of each bearing, we improve the driving performance and safety of automobiles. In order to achieve safer and more comfortable driving, there is a growing requirement for bearings that are both highly functional and highly reliable. If you need automotive bearings, please feel free to contact us, as an automobile bearing manufacturer, we have various types of automotive component bearings for you to choose from!