Catalog Searcher
Categories

Thrust Ball Bearings

Thrust ball bearings are rolling bearings that support axial loads. They consist of a shaft washer fitted to the shaft, a housing washer fitted to the housing, and balls held in a cage. The separate type, in which each component can be assembled individually, is common. Single-direction types support loads in one direction, while double-direction types have a central shaft washer clamped between two sets of balls and washers to support loads in both directions. Some types have a self-aligning seat washer (spherical seat) that absorbs mounting errors. They can carry almost no radial load, so they are used in combination with radial bearings. They are used where a shaft must be axially positioned, such as vertical shafts, screw feed mechanisms, rotary tables, and crane hooks.

How to choose Thrust Ball Bearings

  1. 1. Select single or double type by load direction

    Single-direction bearings support axial load in one direction only and fix the shaft in one direction. If the load reverses in both directions, select a double-direction bearing. If the mounting surface is inclined or the shaft deflects, select a type with a self-aligning housing washer (seat washer) to reduce edge loading.

  2. 2. Match shaft diameter and mounting dimensions

    Select the bore d to suit the shaft diameter and the outside diameter D to suit the housing bore. The height T determines the axial installation space, so check it together with the bore and outside diameter. Listed products have bores of 3 to 280 mm and outside diameters of 8 to 380 mm.

  3. 3. Check life using dynamic load rating

    The basic dynamic load rating Ca is the axial load that serves as the reference for life calculation. Calculate whether the required life is met using the applied load and rotational speed. Listed products have ratings of 0.806 to 624 kN.

  4. 4. Check static and shock loads using static load rating

    For low-speed rotation or loads and shock loads applied while stationary, check that the basic static load rating C0a provides sufficient margin to prevent permanent deformation of the raceways. Listed products have ratings of 0.72 to 2600 kN.

  5. 5. Check both reference and limiting speeds

    Thrust ball bearings are prone to slippage at high speeds due to centrifugal force and gyroscopic moment acting on the balls, so they are not suitable for high-speed applications. Compare the operating speed with the reference speed, which is a thermal guideline, and the limiting speed, which is the mechanical upper limit.

  6. 6. Check operating temperature and cage material

    The permissible operating temperature is a guideline of 125°C for washers and balls with bores of 300 mm or less. Cages are available in steel plate, brass, resin, and other materials. Resin cages have a limited usable temperature range, so confirm the material according to temperature and lubrication conditions.

This guide was written by AI based on the listed products' documents and specification items. Check each manufacturer's documents before adopting.