Do rolling bearings need retainers?

Recently, a customer asked "no bearing cage, can you?" Some people may think that since the cage is just a "small part of no name", can you save it? Not so much.

The so-called cage is actually a small part inside the bearing that is used to fix and guide the rolling element. Simply put, it is to let those balls or rollers stay on their own track inside the bearing, so as not to run off, impact or even get stuck.

The importance of the cage is that it determines the performance and life of the bearing. If there is no cage, the rolling element inside the rotating body may cause premature wear due to extrusion and friction, thereby shortening the service life of the bearing. The cage also reduces friction and reduces heat accumulation, thereby increasing work efficiency.

1. High-speed rotation

In high-speed rotating equipment (such as high-speed trains, wind turbines), cages are especially important. Because high speed operation creates significant centrifugal and friction forces, cages help distribute these forces evenly and keep the system stable.

2. High-precision equipment

Such as precision machine tools, medical equipment, etc., these equipment require high precision operation, a little error may lead to product quality problems. The cage can effectively reduce the operating error and improve the working accuracy of the equipment.

3. Harsh environment

In extreme environments such as high temperature, high pressure, and corrosive environments, specific material cages provide additional protection and extend equipment life.

Eliminating the cage may result in direct contact between the rolling elements, which in turn increases friction, increases temperature, and may even lead to sudden failure. It can not only extend the life of the equipment, but also improve work efficiency and accuracy. In the face of some special environments and demanding application scenarios, the cage is more essential. Therefore, from a safety and long-term perspective, the cage is by no means a small part that can be omitted.

Kent Bearing is a company that focuses on the research and manufacturing of high-precision and low-noise ball bearings, and has rich experience in the production and sales of bearings. If you need welcome consultation.