The bearing cage is one of the main parts of the bearing. Its function is to wrap and isolate the steel ball and move with it, and usually also has the function of guiding the steel ball. The cage must bear the stress caused by friction, strain and inertial force, and also bear the chemical corrosion of lubricants, additives in lubricants or substances produced by aging, organic solvents or coolants. Therefore, the design and material of the cage are extremely important for its performance and the reliability of the bearing.
The bearing cage can keep a proper distance between the steel balls and prevent the steel balls from contacting each other to reduce friction; make the steel balls evenly distributed so that the load can be evenly distributed; guide the steel balls in the no-load area to improve the rolling conditions in the bearing and prevent Damaged slip occurs.
Commonly used cages are mainly divided into metal cages, non-metal cages, composite material cages, etc. according to the type of material. The material types of cages are: low carbon steel stainless steel cages, bakelite/plastic (nylon) cages, brass/bronze/aluminum alloy cages, etc.
Bearing cages for special purposes should also meet the requirements of special working conditions. Such as high temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, self-lubricating (used in vacuum) or non-magnetic, etc.
Bearing cages of different materials have their own special performance, advantages and disadvantages. When choosing, you should not only consider economic factors, but also choose according to actual needs.
