Bearings

As the name suggests, a bearing is a mechanical component that :

• Bears the load
• Locates the shaft
• Reduces the friction between mating parts having relative motion

 

Bearing the Load

The entire load on a shaft is transferred to the body through the bearings. Thus, it is the bearing which actually bears the load.

Based on the direction, load can either be radial, axial or combined.

 

 Locating the shaft

The bearing is so designed that it can restrict the unintentional movement of the shaft generating a constraint to make it move in the desired way. It helps in locating a shaft in its proper place.

 

Reduce the friction

The bearing also helps in reducing the friction between two mating parts having relational motion. This can be done by two means:

• Convert the sliding friction to rolling friction

• Apply a suitable lubricant

The bearing also reduces maintenance effort as it increases the life of the mating parts by reducing friction. The heat generation due to friction is also minimized and regular lubrication ensures heat being removed from the area, thereby increasing the machine life and reliability. In case of failure, the bearing normally gets damaged first, thus saving the main equipment from damage. This also reduces downtime.