How to choose plain bearing and rolling bearing?

In the operation of mechanical equipment, bearing is an indispensable key component. Many engineers and equipment managers are often faced with a choice between plain bearings and rolling bearings. So what are the differences? Based on different application scenarios, how to choose? This article will break them down for you.

1. Structural cost

Compared with rolling bearings, sliding bearings have simple structure, low production cost, and are suitable for mass production to reduce manufacturing costs. However, due to material and processing requirements, its service life is often short. Rolling bearings have high complexity and relatively high cost, but long service life and easy maintenance.

2. Friction coefficient

The friction coefficient of plain bearings is high, which will lead to a certain amount of energy loss, so it is not suitable for high-precision scenarios. The friction coefficient of rolling bearings is low, and the rolling resistance is small, which is suitable for high-efficiency operation and can greatly reduce energy consumption.

3. Carrying capacity

Because of the large contact area, the plain bearing can bear large load. The contact point of rolling bearings is in a small area, so the carrying capacity is relatively low, but it performs well at high speed.

4. Service life

Plain bearings need frequent maintenance or replacement because of their high friction and wear speed. Rolling bearing design precision, good wear resistance, long service life, suitable for long-term operation of equipment.

5. Maintenance requirements

Plain bearings need regular lubrication and maintenance, rolling bearings due to the good seal of grease, low maintenance requirements, reduce downtime, improve production efficiency.

Whether it is plain bearings or rolling bearings, each has its own application scenarios, choosing the right bearing type can not only improve equipment efficiency, but also effectively save costs and maintenance resources. According to the use of the equipment, working conditions and economic budget to choose the appropriate bearing, in order to really play the best performance of the equipment.