Reducing friction of everyday operations with ball bearings

A BALL bearing is a low capacity rolling element that utilizes balls to maintain the distinguished space between two parts of a rotating system. Ball bearings consist of four major parts. An outside ring, a smaller inside ring, steel balls that roll between the rings, and a cage like piece that prevents the balls from banging together during rotation. This structure is so precise and efficient that it has remained in use for more than 500 years; since it’s foundation in the 1500s, when it was put in place for the operation of horse carriage wheels.

The ball bearing serves to reduce friction during rotation and to support the various loads. It achieves this purpose by utilizing two or more tracks to contain the balls and transfer the weight of the load through the balls. Generally, one track is positioned in the bore and kept stationary while the other is fixed into the part that rotates. This system works simply because the friction is less if the axis is set on rolling units opposed to rotating freely, allowing the surfaces to slide against each other.

Ball bearings range is size, all the way from rice sized pieces that serve to run your wrist watch, to industrial motor sized units like the ones in warehouse machinery or aircrafts
Ball bearings range is size, all the way from rice sized pieces that serve to run your wrist watch, to industrial motor sized units like the ones in warehouse machinery or aircrafts. No matter what the size, ball bearings all work precisely the same way, and are an undeniably significant function of everyday operations. Everything from clocks and disc drives to fans, air conditioning units, and automobile axles require ball bearings. Really, anything with a motor, small or large, is kept in smooth, proper working order with the help of ball bearings.

Some ball bearings last what seems a life time, some much less. The life span of a ball bearing is directly related to the weight of the load it carries and the speed at which it operates. For the bearing to operate properly and for the full length of its lifespan, the joint needs to be properly lubricated. It is calculated that, depending on environment temperature, a ball bearing should be oiled 1-4 times a year.

Sometimes these bearings, in your everyday machines, wear out, and need to be replaced. It sounds stressful, but don’t worry, one UK Company, BearingBoys, specializes in all your ball bearing needs, and can supply you the parts to have your machines running back to normal before you know it. We carry ball bearings of all sizes, for all purposes. We also carry ball bearing end caps, oil seals, and all other relatable parts.

The maximum load of a ball bearing is relative to the force that drives it. Otherwise the elements can stress the components and result in cracks. If the ball bearing is one of rotation, the maximum load will be that the bearing can efficiently endure throughout 1,000,000 cycles. If the bearing fails to rotate or is grinding, it is most likely worn down.

If you have determined that your machine has reached the maximum lifespan of its ball bearings, you will need to replace them before operation can continue. The job can be quick and easy with BearingBoys your leading UK supplier of all ball bearings and related parts.

BearingBoys have been BearingNet members since 2008. Bearingboys Ltd is one of the fastest growing, independent bearing and transmissions companies in the UK and offers our customers a fantastic range of great value products. Within our core team we have in excess of 50 years’ experience in the bearing and power transmission industry so expect professional and efficient advice. We serve businesses, as well as members of the public.