ASAP Aviation Stock Blog

Radial ball bearings are friction reduction components that are equipped with the ability to carry loads radially around their axis. Serving as a subtype of ball bearings, their design consists of lubricated steel balls that are placed between two grooved rings. As such, they are often called deep-groove bearings or Conrad bearings.

Bearings are an important element of countless systems and machinery, serving to facilitate motion while mitigating friction for the health of the assembly. There are many types of bearings that one may utilize, each varying in its design and capabilities to cater towards certain applications. Needle roller linear bearings, sometimes just called needle roller bearings, are a common component that may be found within automotive and industrial power transmission applications alike. With their compact profile and ample load-carrying capacity, such bearings are quite beneficial.

Actuators are important components for the operation of machinery, allowing for actions to be carried out through the use of control signals and energy. From the simple operation of opening a valve to rotating an automobile wheel, actuators serve many roles and applications with their various types. Additionally, actuators can be powered through multiple means such as hydraulic pressure, pneumatic pressure, and electrical current. Due to their simple but crucial role in the operation of machinery and systems, understanding their functionality and varying types can be useful for ensuring that the right components are chosen for a given application.

When selecting the rotary actuator for your system, among the most important design considerations are mechanical efficiency, package size, shaft options, max rotation, and cost. Apart from these, you must also consider characteristics including backlash, load-stopping ability, and its ability to handle both axial and radial loads on the shaft. There are two main types of pneumatic rotary actuators: rack & pinion and vane actuators. This blog will explain both types, as well as their pros and cons.