How do roller bearings handle radial and axial loads?

For radial loads, roller bearings carry this type of force through rolling elements such as cylindrical rollers, tapered rollers, or needle rollers between their inner and outer rings. These rolling elements roll along the axis of the bearing, forming a contact surface between the inner and outer rings, which effectively disperses and transmits the radial forces applied to the bearing. Cylindrical roller bearings are generally suitable for carrying large radial loads because their large rolling area can evenly support the force. Tapered roller bearings can carry higher radial loads due to the special design of their inner and outer rings, which not only enhances the load capacity but also can handle the combination of axial loads.

For axial loads, the ability of roller bearings depends on their specific design and the structure of the rolling elements. Cylindrical roller bearings are generally less limited in terms of axial loads and are suitable for lighter or medium axial loads. Tapered roller bearings, on the other hand, can effectively carry larger unidirectional or bidirectional axial loads due to the angular design of their inner and outer rings. This design allows roller bearings to maintain stability and reliability in the face of various stress directions, especially in the case of combined loads that frequently occur in industrial machinery.

In actual applications, engineers must select the appropriate roller bearing based on the design requirements of the equipment and the expected load types. Under combined load conditions, roller bearings can effectively manage the simultaneous radial and axial loads, ensuring stable operation of the equipment under high loads and high speeds. Selecting the correct roller bearing type and size is a key factor in ensuring equipment performance and life, and requires comprehensive consideration of load characteristics, working environment conditions, and predicted operating requirements.

Cylindrical Roller Bearing Without Outer Ring 

No outer ring, the double flange on the inner ring. It can not bear axial loads, and can not limit the axial displacement of the shaft or housing. The surface hardness, machining accuracy, and surface quality of the housing hole in contact with the bearing should be similar to that of the ring raceway. For components with limited radial dimensions.