Single Row Spherical Roller Bearing

Single row spherical roller bearings are self-aligning and self-retaining radial bearings. They are used in many industrial applications and in wind turbines and material handling pumps. They can be manufactured with different types of bore and cages. These bearings are designed to accommodate both radial and axial load. Among the advantages of these bearings is that they are very low friction. Moreover, the spherical shape of the bearings allow them to rotate with low friction and angular misalignment. However, these bearings cannot be dismantled.

The outer ring is usually made with a groove to guide the rollers and the cage in rotation. The inner ring is also often manufactured with a flange. This flange acts as an aid during high acceleration. In addition, the inner ring is generally made with two fixed ribs to eliminate contact stress between the inner ring and the bearing raceway.

Single row spherical roller bearings have a unique roller raceway design. Compared to conventional double-row spherical roller bearings, single row bearings have increased dynamic load capacity. Their larger rollers can absorb more radial shock loads and are therefore suited for heavier applications.

They can accommodate heavy radial load in both directions. This type of bearing is particularly recommended for applications that have a large range of radial and axial deflection. Moreover, they are insensitive to shaft misalignment and bending. Despite their low axial load capacity, they are still widely used for a variety of applications.

Some of the advantages of single row spherical roller bearings include high load carrying capacity, self-aligning capability, and resistance to bending. However, these bearings are not suitable for high speed and temperature conditions. For these reasons, lubrication is crucial to maintain optimal performance. Seals can be included as an optional component to prevent moisture from entering the raceway. Additionally, seals can limit speed, preventing contaminants from entering the bearing. Depending on the application, a special coating may be needed.

Single row spherical bearings can be classified into two categories: those with a cylindrical bore and those with a straight or tapered bore. Each category is designed for a certain application. If a bearing has a cylindrical bore, it is primarily used for vibratory and oscillatory applications. As for a bearing with a straight or tapered bore, it is used for a low to medium speed rating. Typically, these bearings are manufactured from machined steel or brass.

One of the primary advantages of single row spherical bearings is that they are highly dimensionally interchangeable with standard double-row spherical rollers. Several manufacturers, such as McGill, offer integral seals as an option to ensure the integrity of the bearing.

Lastly, the material used for a bearing depends on the manufacturing method and manufacturing volume. In general, these bearings are constructed from a combination of machined steel, brass, and polyamide. A single row spherical bearing can handle a very large radial load and is especially useful for applications where misalignment is a problem. However, they can be subject to mechanical fatigue.