A ball bearing is a common form of rolling-element bearing, its design leveraging balls to maintain separation between the moving parts of an assembly. While a seemingly small and insignificant component in the grand scheme of aircraft or machinery design, their presence is absolutely essential for many systems to maintain reliability and performance. In this blog, we will delve into common ball bearing designs, applications, and benefits, providing readers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their procurement needs.

Understanding the Basics of Ball Bearings

With the presence of ball bearing in a rotating assembly, friction from contact is reduced to facilitate smooth movement. While exact designs may differ, standard ball bearings in aircraft settings consist of the typical inner ring, outer ring, and a set of balls that are held in place by a cage or retainer. The balls are situated so that they may roll between the inner and outer rings of the bearing, optimally taking on loads while minimizing the amount of wear that occurs from surfaces sliding against one another.

A pump is central to the functionality of hydraulic systems, providing the power needed to move fluids and generate mechanical force. These systems are commonly found in machinery, construction equipment, airplanes, and industrial systems, making a base understanding of their inner workings integral to anyone who works with them. In this blog, we will explain how hydraulic pumps function, explore common types, and highlight how to mitigate potential issues that can arise during their operation.