Bearings Encyclopedia

A plain-English reference to how bearings work, the main types and how to choose between them, and the materials, lubrication and care that keep them running. New to bearings? Start with the fundamentals; looking for a specific type? Jump to the type reference.

Fundamentals

• All About BearingsWhat a bearing is, the four basic parts, why they matter, and how to select one.
• Bearing TypesThe full set of rolling and plain bearing types, side by side.
• Bearing LubricationGrease vs oil, selection, quantity and relubrication.
• Reading a Bearing NumberDecode the type, size and features from the designation.

Bearing types

• Deep-groove ballThe all-rounder.
• Angular-contact ballCombined load, high speed.
• Self-aligning ballTolerates misalignment.
• Cylindrical rollerHeavy radial load.
• Tapered rollerHeavy combined load.
• Spherical rollerHeavy load + misalignment.
• Thrust bearingsAxial loads.
• Fluid-film / plainOil-film, no rolling elements.

Materials, mounting & care

• Materials & QualityBearing steels, heat treatment and what makes a quality bearing.
• Mounting & CareFitting correctly and the prevention checklist.
• Failure GuideDiagnose problems and fix the root cause.
• Standards HubTolerances, clearance and the standards that govern bearings.