Drivlager

Drivlager, also known as thrust bearings, are a type of rolling-element bearing that are designed to handle axial loads. Unlike radial bearings which are primarily designed to support loads perpendicular to the shaft, drivlager are built to withstand forces that are parallel to the shaft's axis of rotation. This makes them crucial in applications where the primary force is pushing or pulling along the length of a rotating component.

There are several common types of drivlager. Ball drivlager use spherical balls between races. These are suitable for moderate axial loads and can also accommodate some radial load, though this is not their primary function. Roller drivlager, on the other hand, employ cylindrical, spherical, or tapered rollers. Roller drivlager generally have a higher load-carrying capacity than ball drivlager due to the larger contact area between the rollers and the races. Needle roller drivlager are a subtype that uses long, thin cylindrical rollers, offering a high load capacity in a compact space.

The design of a drivlager typically involves two main components: the shaft washer and the housing washer, with the rolling elements situated between them. The specific configuration can vary depending on whether the bearing is single-direction or double-direction, meaning it can handle thrust loads from one or both sides of the shaft, respectively. Applications for drivlager are widespread and include applications such as automotive transmissions, industrial gearboxes, marine propulsion systems, and rotating machinery where axial forces are significant. Proper lubrication and maintenance are essential for the longevity and performance of drivlager.