Inventors:
Eric S. NELSON - CHARLOTTE NC, US
International Classification:
F16C 33/46, F16C 19/30
Abstract:
The axial roller bearing cage has an inner ring, an outer ring, and a plurality of alternating cage bars and roller pockets, which are formed between the inner ring and the outer ring. The roller pockets of the axial roller bearing cage extend along the entire length of the cage bars, accommodating rollers of maximum length, which also enables a compact cage design for a given roller length. The cage enhances the friction characteristics between the ends of the rollers and the cage bars. The ends of the rollers are supported on a centerline, which reduces frictional torque by reducing the length of the frictional moment arm on each roller, allowing for a symmetric loading. The ends of the rollers are also supported by the inboard smooth surface of the formed flanges of the connecting elements, which increases oil film development and allows the bearing to operate at higher speeds.