Rolling bearing cage

Rolling bearing cages: An overview

Rolling bearing cages are crucial components in rolling bearings that support a wide range of industrial applications. They are used to position and guide the rolling elements within the bearing. This article provides a detailed overview of rolling bearing cages, their functions, materials, designs and applications.

1. Functions of rolling bearing cages:

The main purpose of a rolling bearing cage is to keep the rolling elements (such as balls or rollers) in a defined arrangement within the bearing. By positioning the rolling elements correctly, the cage enables an even load distribution and reduces friction and wear in the bearing. In addition, the cage helps to separate the rolling elements from each other, which supports smooth movement and low noise generation.

2. Materials for rolling bearing cages:

Rolling bearing cages are manufactured from various materials, depending on the specific requirements of the application. Commonly used materials are

• Steel: Steel cages are robust and offer good strength and thermal conductivity. They are used in many standard applications.
• Plastics (polyamide, PEEK, etc.): Plastic cages are lighter than steel cages and can offer corrosion resistance and low friction properties.
• Brass: Brass cages are characterized by good thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance and are often used in high-temperature applications.

3. Rolling bearing cage designs:

There are different designs of rolling bearing cages, which can vary depending on the bearing design and operating conditions:

• Cages with windows: These cages have recesses or windows that allow the rolling elements to move freely while remaining stabilized.
• Fully enclosed cages: These cages completely surround the rolling elements and offer high stability and guidance, especially at high speeds.
• Crown cages: These special cages have a crown-shaped structure and are often used in angular contact ball bearings or angular contact roller bearings to support the axial load.

4. Applications of rolling bearing cages:

Rolling bearing cages are used in a wide range of applications, including

• Mechanical engineering and the automotive industry: Various types of rolling bearing cages are used in motors, gearboxes, pumps and other rotating machines.
• Aerospace: Rolling bearing cages play an important role in aircraft engines, bearings for flight controls and other critical systems.
• Electric motors and generators: Rolling bearing cages support the smooth rotation of shafts in electric motors and generators, which is crucial for power generation.

Overall, bearing cages are critical components of rolling bearings that help enable efficient and reliable rotational motion in a variety of industrial applications. By selecting the appropriate material, design and correct mounting, optimum performance and bearing life can be achieved.

All information without guarantee. These are for information purposes only.

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