company news about What is an angular contact ball bearing?

Angular contact ball bearings are defined as bearings where the line of action of the load forms an angle with the bearing's axis, allowing them to carry combined radial and axial loads.

Key Characteristics:

1. Contact Angle (α):

   • The most defining feature of an angular contact bearing.

   • It's the angle between the line connecting the points of contact of the ball and the raceways (inner and outer) and a line perpendicular to the bearing axis.

   • Common contact angles: 15°, 25°, 30°, 40°.

   • A larger angle means greater axial load capacity, but lower speed capability.

2. Load Direction:

   • Can carry axial loads in one direction only, unless paired.

   • For axial loads in both directions, they are used in back-to-back (DB) or face-to-face (DF) configurations, or tandem (DT) for higher axial loads in one direction.

3. Inner and Outer Ring Design:

   • The raceways are offset relative to each other, which enables the angular contact.

4. High-Speed Capability:

   • These bearings can operate at high speeds, especially with lower contact angles.

Applications:

Angular contact ball bearings are used in situations where:

• High-speed rotation is needed.

• There is a combination of radial and axial forces.

• Precise shaft positioning is required.

Common uses include:

• Machine tool spindles

• Pumps

• Gearboxes

• Automotive applications (e.g., clutches)

• Aerospace