29/10/2026
📖 More details in comments.
BEARING LOAD TYPES — RADIAL, AXIAL & COMBINED LOAD
A bearing must be selected according to the type, magnitude and direction of the load acting on it.
1️⃣ RADIAL LOAD
A radial load acts perpendicular to the shaft axis.
Examples:
• Electric motors
• Pumps
• Fans
• Conveyors
• Gearboxes
Radial loads are commonly supported by deep-groove ball bearings and many types of roller bearings, depending on the application.
2️⃣ AXIAL / THRUST LOAD
An axial load acts parallel to the shaft axis.
Examples:
• Screw mechanisms
• Thrust applications
• Pumps
• Gearboxes
• Vertical shafts
Suitable bearing selection depends on the magnitude and direction of the axial load.
3️⃣ COMBINED LOAD
A combined load contains both radial and axial components.
Examples:
• Pump shafts
• Gearboxes
• Machine tools
• Automotive wheel applications
• Industrial rotating equipment
Angular-contact ball bearings, tapered roller bearings and other suitable bearing types may be selected depending on the load conditions.
⚙️ HOW TO SELECT A BEARING?
Consider:
LOAD TYPE
↓
RADIAL / AXIAL / COMBINED
LOAD MAGNITUDE
↓
C₀ / C / REQUIRED LIFE
SPEED
↓
RPM & OPERATING CONDITIONS
TEMPERATURE
↓
LUBRICATION & CLEARANCE
ENVIRONMENT
↓
CONTAMINATION / MOISTURE / CORROSION
👨🔧 ENGINEERING TIP
Never select a bearing based only on shaft diameter.
A proper selection should consider:
✅ Radial load
✅ Axial load
✅ Equivalent dynamic load
✅ Static load
✅ Required bearing life
✅ Speed
✅ Temperature
✅ Lubrication
✅ Misalignment
✅ Mounting arrangement
The correct bearing is the one that satisfies the actual operating conditions—not simply the one that fits the shaft.
CORRECT LOAD ANALYSIS + CORRECT BEARING SELECTION = RELIABLE ROTATING EQUIPMENT.
