self-aligning spherical bearing

[bernardg]

A quick question to all the pundits out here...
what exactly is it about the larger self-aligning spherical bearing that makes it better than the smaller self-aligning spherical bearing? I've heard a few people here and there mention its superiority, but what I want to know is why.

Is there any other reason other than, the size of the bearing dictating the oil capacity and a larger thrust surface?

Looking forward to hear your thoughts.

Bernie

 

[smckennz]

Hi Bernie

perhaps you could consider the ratio of surface roughness to rolling radius.
Surface roughness is dictated by machining method and is largely independent of rolling radius.
So, assuming equal surface finish, a large bearing will have a smoother rolling path than a small bearing. And the smoother the ride, the longer the life.
Sort of like getting a smoother ride over a rough road with bigger wheels.
Just a wild guess, however.

Cheers

Steve

 

[diamondjim]

Normally a larger bearing will have
larger or more rolling elements which
in turn reduces the unit load on each
roller. Life is basically related
to unit load by a cubic function.
For example, if the you reduced the
unit load by 2, you would see a 8
times increase in life.