Uses of Tapered Roller Bearings

Tapered roller bearings are a type of cylindrical bearing that has an active alignment mechanism. Its angle surfaces, known as cones and cups, align the rollers in a single unified assembly. These rollers are surrounded by a cage, which serves as a spacer between them. The cage is held together by flanges, which prevent the roller and cage assembly from exiting the raceway. In a perfect alignment, these cones would meet at the same point on the main axis of the bearing.

Reduces friction

The tapered roller bearing is a bearing that reduces friction in moving parts. These types of bearings are commonly used in transmission shafts and cars. Their combined design supports radial and axial loads, ensuring the correct interlocking of gears and transferring a huge driving force to the wheels on both sides of the axle.

Allows for misalignment

Misalignment is a common feature of tapered roller bearings. This feature can increase or decrease life by as much as ten percent. Misalignment can reduce a bearing's load capacity by up to four degrees. In this study, researchers analyzed the impact of misalignment on load distribution and fatigue life. They also considered the effects of truncated crowned rollers and edge-of-contact stresses. In total, 500 bearings were tested at varying misalignments and loads.

Handles heavy axial and radial loads

Tapered roller bearings can handle axial and radial loads of high magnitudes. They are available in single-row, double-row, and matched sets. The single-row radial bearing is used for unidirectional axial loads, while the double-row radial bearing is used for axial and thrust loads. The life of the bearing depends on the shaft and bearing alignment. In some cases, it is possible to obtain self-aligning bearings. Another option is full complement bearings, which eliminate the carrier. However, full complement bearings have higher wear than carriers.

It can be damaged by hearing

When a tapered roller bearing is damaged, the resulting noise is a warning sign that the bearing needs to be replaced. The noise varies with the speed of the bearing and usually indicates severe damage to the rolling parts. A hissing noise also indicates damage. If the noise is intermittent, it can be a sign of a contaminated bearing. If it is continuous, it indicates severe damage and should be replaced immediately.

Has cages

A tapered roller bearing has a cage to protect the rollers inside of it. The cage consists of a small and a large side ring. The arms that attach to these two rings define pockets for the tapered rollers. The arms also have obliquely inclined surfaces that engage with the inner ring's lip, flange, or rim. The arms' surfaces also separate the rollers to prevent excessive skewing.

Can be mounted as mounted units

There are many advantages to using tapered roller bearings mounted as mounted units. Typically, these units are pre-lubricated and are available in various configurations. They can also be ordered with a variety of seals. Mounted units can be installed on shafts quickly.