Ball Bearing Surfaces: Does the Ball Touch Both Races?

[DecayProduct]

Do the balls in a bearing actually touch both races? If so, how does the thing turn? Won't the balls be moving in different directions at each race, and therefore dragging against one?

 

[minger]

Yes they touch. I don't think I understand your question though. Here are a couple of images to hopefully help you get it.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:BallBearing.gif
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Four-point-contact-bearing_din628_type-qj_180-ex.png

Realize that balls rather than regular roller bearings are used when thrust loads are needed to be taken. As such, they are typically (and most time need to be) loaded in one direction only.

 

[TVP45]

Do the balls in a bearing actually touch both races? If so, how does the thing turn? Won't the balls be moving in different directions at each race, and therefore dragging against one?

There are two answers. In an ideal bearing, there is no sliding. In all real bearings, there is some sliding, but it is due to the deformation or angular mislaignment.