Angular Contact and Four-Point Contact Ball Bearings

If you are looking to purchase a ball bearing, you should know the differences between Angular-contact and Four-point contact bearings. Both types are used for different purposes. X-Type bearings are excellent for moment loading and reversing axial loads. However, these types of bearings are not recommended for pure radial loads. Furthermore, they may not be the most suitable option for applications that require high application speed.

Four-point contact ball bearings

The Four-point contact ball bearing market has undergone considerable growth over the past few years. Growing demand for automobiles, technological advancement, and energy-efficient products have contributed to this growth. Additionally, a growing focus on precision engineering is driving the market for these products. The market is expected to see significant growth in the coming years.

Four-point contact ball bearings differ from traditional two-row bearings in their design and application. Their four-point contact arrangement produces more friction, making them best suited for low to moderate-speed applications. High-speed applications can result in increased friction and wear with four-point contact bearings.

Four-point contact ball bearings can handle radial, thrust, and moment loads. Most of them are used in low to moderate-speed applications, or oscillatory motion. Aside from their simplicity, four-point contact ball bearings also allow for a simplified system design by eliminating a second bearing. Unlike the two-point contact bearings, four-point ball bearings have twice as many contact points and one row of balls as traditional bearings.

Four-point contact ball bearings feature separable inner and outer rings with a contact angle of 35 degrees. Because of the unique internal fit, these bearings can withstand significant axial and combined loads. They also feature a machined brass cage that makes them easy to handle.

Angular-contact ball bearings

NSK offers a broad range of Angular Contact Ball Bearings for different applications. These bearings are capable of absorbing large radial and axial loads. They are typically used in pairs, triplex sets, or quadruplex sets. These bearings are often designed with High Grade Balls, which help them achieve smooth operation at high speeds. Another benefit of angular contact ball bearings is that they are adjustable to accommodate a variety of axial loads.

Angular contact ball bearings have an outer ring and inner ring with an offset contact angle. This offset enables axial forces to be absorbed better. The increased angle of contact allows angular contact ball bearings to carry higher axial loads. This design also extends the life of the bearing, as the axial load capacity of the bearing increases.

The primary difference between angular contact ball bearings and their deep-groove counterparts lies in the contact angle between the inner and outer rings. They are more rigid than deep-groove ball bearings and are capable of sustaining radial and axial loads. Angular contact ball bearings also feature an increased number of balls for a greater capacity.

Angular contact ball bearings are an excellent choice for heavy machinery and agricultural equipment. They can also be used to run electric motors and gearboxes. These bearings also support high speeds.