DescriptionThe needle roller bearing did not get its name by chance, because its rolling elements are – surprise – characterised by a needle shape! The rolling elements are also guided parallel to the axis, as needle roller bearings are a special type of cylindrical roller bearing. You are almost guaranteed to find needle roller bearings in gearboxes, vehicle drives or packaging machines, for example.Needle roller bearings are mainly used as non-locating bearings. Typical for this type of bearing are also its very compact dimensions. Here and there, the inner and/or outer ring may be missing, and the same applies to the cage. If the cage is missing, it is also called a “full complement needle roller bearing”. Needle roller bearings have a small cross-section and are therefore smaller than many other bearing types. This is because the rolling element diameter is smaller than 10 millimetres. The diameter-length ratio of the rolling elements is between 1:3 and 1:10.Characteristics of needle bearingsNeedle cages (needle roller and cage assemblies)Drawn cup needle roller bearingsSolid ring needle roller bearingsStud type track rollersYoke type track rollersSealing of needle bearingsSummary Needle roller bearings are small and compact, their rolling elements are comparatively longUsed in gearboxes, vehicle drives or packaging machinesIdeal for swivel movementsBearing code number and designation scheme differs depending on the seriesExamples of needle roller bearing series: Needle roller and cage assemblies, drawn cup needle roller bearings, needle roller bearings with solid rings, stud type track rollers, yoke type track rollersNeedle roller bearings usually do not have their own seal, but the use of an optional (contact) seal is still possible
