Which bearing type is required for angular loads that may cause misalignment?

• A. self-aligning
• B. ball
• C. angular-contact
• D. thrust

Answer: (A)

When a bearing must tolerate shaft misalignment caused by angular loading, the bearing type chosen should be able to compensate for that tilt. Self-aligning bearings are designed with a spherical or concave race that lets the inner ring tilt relative to the outer ring. This freedom to align as the load shifts means the balls or rollers maintain even contact and distribute the load, reducing binding, uneven wear, and premature failure when misalignment is present.

Standard ball bearings lack this capability and will bind or wear quickly if misalignment exists. Angular-contact bearings are designed for high-speed service and combined radial-axial loads but require precise alignment and do not compensate for angular misalignment. Thrust bearings handle axial loads and do not address misalignment of the shaft.

Thus, the self-aligning bearing is the best choice for angular loads that may cause misalignment.