Rolling Element Bearings

Rolling element bearings consist of two circular steel rings and a set of rolling elements. One of the rings is much larger than the other—in fact, it is large enough for the other to fit well within its perimeter. This larger ring is referred to as the outer ring. The smaller of the two is the inner ring. A predetermined number of solid balls or rollers are formed into geometric shapes and placed at equal intervals in the open space between the two rings. These components are usually made of steel and are referred to as rolling elements. A cage, or retainer, is then used to maintain the intervals between the elements. This basic terminology will be used and expanded upon in the pages to come to describe the simple design and construction of a bearing.

Rolling Element Bearing Classifications

Rolling Element Bearings and Tolerances