Your Guide to Understanding Ball Bearings

Ball bearings are among the most common types of bearings that are used in rotational movement applications. Based on the concept that a rolling element will produce less friction ball bearings are perfectly suited to meet low friction requirements in high-speed applications.

How Do Ball Bearings Work?

The primary function of ball bearings is to prevent direct metal-on-metal contact between two components in relative motion. A ball bearing consists of a row (or multiple rows) of balls between an inner and outer raceway and is designed to easily withstand both thrust and radial loads. One of the raceways in the ball bearing is stationary, while the other is free to rotate. Depending on its intended application you can buy ball bearings from a range of options, like radial bearings, plain bearings, deep groove bearings, etc.You can buy ball bearings online with ease, based on their size, materials used to make the bearing, etc.

Primary Functions of Ball Bearings

To ensure the smooth and efficient operations, ball bearings usually perform three basic functions: 

1. Reducing friction

 The primary reason behind using ball bearings is to reduce the rotational friction that is created between two components of a machine that are in relative motion. Using rolling balls between the two races of the bearing, the coefficient of friction is reduced, resulting in a smoother operation.   

2. Guiding the Moving Components

 Ball bearings permit only a specific type of motion. The bearings protect the parts from damage that may be incurred due to the force between the moving parts. 

3. Supporting the Load

Ball bearings are designed to support axial loads in two directions as well as radial loads for optimised performance.

Benefits of Ball Bearings

• Minimal friction and operating temperatures 
• Low noise and vibrations 
• High-speed applications 
• Increased dependability and extended bearing and lubricant service life 
• Can withstand thrust loads 
• Easy to buy ball bearings online to replace old components 
• Extends machine’s service life 
• Excellent wear resistance

You can buy ball bearings online from a wide range of options, based on the application.