Spherical Roller Thrust Bearings
Spherical roller thrust bearings are unique in their raceway and asymmetric roller design. The barrel-like rollers provide a spherical roller thrust bearing the ability to support a high axial load while maintaining a moderate radial load. The loads are supported by the angled rollers, whereby the radial load is partially supported outward by the curved raceway design to maximize surface contact area.
A spherical thrust roller bearing can internally self-align and therefore compensate for shaft deflections and initial seating misalignment. Since bore alignment is not critical, weldments can be used in lieu of complex castings for housing frames. With optimized contact between the roller ends and flange, there is low frictional heat at high or low speeds. A spherical thrust bearing may be found in gearboxes, fans and pumps. The bearings may also be used in higher-heat applications, and some are separable, allowing for maintenance and cleaning with relative ease.
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