Single Direction and Double Direction Thrust Ball Bearings

In terms of construction the thrust ball bearings are divided into single direction and double direction thrust ball bearings.

Single Direction Thrust Ball Bearings consist of two flat washers with raceways, balls and cage. The washers have a flat seating surface therefore they have to be embedded so that all balls are equally loaded.

Double Direction Thrust Ball Bearings have two cages with balls between the central shaft washer and both housing washers with flat seating surface. The shaft washer has raceways on both sides and is fixed on a journal.

Single direction and double direction thrust ball bearings can accommodate large axial load, however they must not be subjected to radial load. During operation these bearings must be constantly subjected to a specific axial load.