Spherical roller thrust bearings
In spherical roller thrust bearings the load is transmitted from one raceway to the other at an angle to the bearing axis.
The bearings are therefore suitable to accommodate radial loads in addition to simultaneously acting axial loads. Another important characteristic of spherical roller thrust bearings is their self-aligning capability. This makes the bearings insensitive to shaft deflection and misalignment of the shaft relative to the housing.
Spherical roller thrust bearings incorporate a large number of asymmetrical rollers and have specially designed raceways with an optimum conformity. They can therefore support very heavy axial loads and permit relatively high speed operation.
Spherical roller thrust bearings are produced in two designs depending on the size and series. Bearings up to and including size 68 identified by the designation suffix E have a pressed steel window-type cage which, with the rollers, forms a non-separable assembly with the shaft washer,
All spherical roller thrust bearings undergo a special heat treatment so that they can be operated at higher temperatures for long periods, without the occurrence of inadmissible dimensional changes. For example, a temperature of +200 °C for up to 2 500 h, or for shorter periods at even higher temperatures, is permitted.
All other bearings have a machined brass or steel cage which is guided b