Spherical Roller Bearings Reduce Friction and Allow Smoother Rotation

Bearings are an essential part of industrial machinery. A bearing's goal is to regulate motion in a moving part and help reduce friction. 

However, there are several types of bearings to choose from, each having its own purpose with its own advantages and disadvantages.  

A spherical roller bearing is a rolling-element bearing that permits rotation with low friction and can manage misalignment between the shaft and housing.  

Bearings Manufacturing Company is committed to being a world-class provider of modified and manufactured ball and roller bearing products. Because of this, we have worked with all types of roller bearings in many different applications across all industries.

So if you're looking for a spherical roller bearing for your next project—what's your next best step?

You can contact a sales rep about your bearing needs or submit a support ticket. We can manufacture, modify, and repair most ball and roller bearings.

In the meantime, keep reading for more information about spherical roller bearings.

We thought it would be advantageous to create a series of posts that included the main roller bearings types you may need for your projects. This is the second post of the five-part series. In case you missed it, here's the first article—What are Cylindrical Roller Bearings and How are They Used?

What are spherical roller bearings?

Spherical roller bearings provide dual-directional movement versatility. Its primary function is to reduce friction between the components while allowing misalignment. 

There are two spherical roller bearings, non-sealed/open bearings, and sealed.

Both bearings are designed to withstand high loads; however, sealed bearings benefit from the enclosure that helps extend their service life. A highly effective double-lip seal keeps lubricants in and contaminants out.

Understanding both bearing types and which is needed for a specific application is essential when sourcing suppliers. 

What are the benefits of using spherical roller bearings?

• The bearings reduce friction and allow for a smoother rotation.
• It permits angular misalignment. Spherical roller bearings are self-aligning, making them accommodating for misalignment.
• The bearings support the rotating axle in the bore of the inner ring.
• The bearings have an outstanding load carrying capacity for radial and combination loads in one direction due to many spherical rollers.
• Spherical roller bearings have a moderate to high-speed capability.
• Spherical roller bearings have reduced maintenance requirements.
• The bearings are known for extended service life.
• They offer reduced noise and vibration levels.

Spherical Roller Bearings Applications 

Spherical roller bearings are used in extremely tough running conditions in highly demanding environments.

The bearings are used in applications prone to misalignment or shaft deflection (bending of the shaft under specific circumstances, such as an axial load). They are known to tolerate the misalignment between the shaft and housing.

With being able to handle misalignment, spherical roller bearings are sourced for various mechanical uses. 

Everyday use for this bearing includes mining equipment, construction equipment, textile machinery, and more . . .

"Spherical roller bearings have a wide range of use-cases. They are used in applications where heavy loads, moderate to high speeds, and possible misalignment occur. Examples are off-road vehicles, pumps, mechanical fans, marine propulsion, wind turbines, and gearboxes." [source]

Closing thoughts 

Spherical roller bearings offer an excellent service life combined with high levels of reliability. They minimize friction and keep noise and vibration during operation.

These barrel-shaped spherical rollers reduce friction within the bearing and allow the bearing to accommodate angular misalignment.

p.s. Stay tuned for our Tapered Roller Bearings post next—if you need a bearing that can be adapted to support high radial or axial loads (or both).