Over the years, humankind has seen some truly incredible inventions. Inventions which have revolutionized life as we know it today. The automobile is a prime example of that. One of the greatest mechanical innovations in history, motor vehicles are constantly evolving, as are the parts and fittings used to create them.
Without question, needle roller bearings are one of the most important components found in modern vehicles. Needle roller bearings are similar in design to cylindrical roller bearings, though they feature a design where the length of each roller is at least 4 times larger than their diameter, which is 6mm or less.
They utilize tiny needle rollers for rolling elements and their primary objective is to reduce the volume of friction which is present on rotating surfaces. Renowned for their durability and innovative design, needle roller bearings are essential components needed with the construction of motor vehicles.
Here’s a look at 5 ways in which needle roller bearings can be utilized within the automotive industry.
When vehicles are driven, the compressors housed within them are subject to extreme amounts of pressure, as well as vast amounts of friction. Needless to say, this wear and tear can quickly add up and can quickly wear down internal components located within the compressors themselves. This is where needle roller bearings enter the picture.
Car compressors feature needle roller bearings to reduce the amounts of friction which they are subject to. They achieve this by distributing the load more evenly across the surface, thereby improving the performance of the compressors and enhancing longevity in the process.
In car pumps, needle roller bearings also play crucial roles, as they help to ensure the shaft remains aligned in the correct position, while simultaneously providing radial thrust in the process.
Rocker arm pivots are important parts needed within the combustion engines of cars and vehicles. They are needed for the system’s inlet and outlet valves, as they ensure they open and close smoothly. Not only that, but these pivots are also required for the vehicle’s camshaft.
To ensure that rocker arm pivots function correctly, they utilize a wide range of different bearings, including needle roller bearings.
Suitable for use in both manual and automatic transmissions, needle roller bearings can help to regulate shaft endplay, and reduce friction levels within the transmission systems themselves.
Mounted between the shaft and the gear, needle roller bearings are located within a round cylinder and are held in place by grease. They rotate between the exterior surface of the shaft, and the interior of the gear.
Needle roller bearings are also commonly found in the drive shaft of vehicles. Generally, the larger the drive shaft, or the more extreme the driving conditions, the more needle roller bearings will be present.
Rear-wheel drive vehicles can feature as many as 8 bearings, typically with 4 located within both U-joints. Some of the world’s most famous car manufacturers, such as BMW, produce vehicles that are predominantly rear-wheel drive. Without needle roller bearings located within the drive shafts, they would simply not be possible.
As you can see, without needle roller bearings, the automotive industry as we know it today would not be. These bearings are essential components within cars and vehicles, yet choosing the right product isn’t always easy.
With so much variety to choose from, you need roller bearings you can trust. At NSAR, we offer a wide range of premium quality needle roller bearings for affordable prices. With decades of experience behind us, and a track record that speaks for itself, it’s easy to see why we’re many people’s go-to bearings provider.
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