CWEA Maintenance Technologist Practice Test

What type of bearing is generally used to support high radial loads?

1. Ball bearing

2. Roller bearing

3. Thrust bearing

4. Magnetic bearing

The correct answer is: Roller bearing

Roller bearings are specifically designed to support high radial loads due to their unique structure, which utilizes cylindrical rollers. This design allows for a significantly larger contact area with the inner and outer raceways compared to ball bearings. As a result, roller bearings can distribute load more effectively, making them ideal for applications that involve heavy loads and high radial forces. The shape of the rollers, combined with their arrangement, enables these bearings to handle greater weight without leading to excessive wear or failure. This is particularly useful in environments where machines experience substantial radial loads, such as in heavy machinery, conveyors, and gear assemblies. Additionally, roller bearings maintain a lower coefficient of friction compared to other types of bearings under radial loading, contributing to enhanced efficiency and longevity in operation. This makes them a preferred choice in situations where both load capacity and durability are paramount.