Bearings are essential components in various mechanical systems, and they often consist of rolling elements such as balls or rollers enclosed within a cage. The primary function of a cage, also known as a retainer, is to maintain the relative positions of the rolling elements and guide them along the raceways. Different types of cages are used in bearings based on factors such as load capacity, speed, lubrication requirements, and environmental conditions. Some common types of cages used in bearings include:

Pressed Steel Cage: Pressed steel cages are economical and commonly used in ball bearings and some roller bearings. These cages are formed by stamping or pressing thin steel sheets into the desired shape. Pressed steel cages are lightweight and provide good strength and rigidity, making them suitable for moderate-speed applications with low to moderate loads.

Machined Brass Cage: Machined brass cages offer excellent strength, rigidity, and wear resistance. They are often used in high-speed applications and environments where lubrication conditions are challenging. Machined brass cages are known for their high thermal stability and resistance to corrosion, making them ideal for demanding operating conditions.

Polyamide Cage: Polyamide cages, also known as nylon cages, are lightweight, durable, and resistant to wear and corrosion. These cages are commonly used in high-speed applications where low friction and noise levels are crucial. Polyamide cages also offer good dimensional stability and can withstand a wide range of operating temperatures.

Phenolic Cage: Phenolic cages are made from synthetic resin materials and are known for their high strength, stiffness, and heat resistance. These cages are often used in precision bearings and high-speed applications where low weight and minimal friction are required. Phenolic cages provide excellent dimensional stability and can operate effectively in elevated temperature environments.

Stamped Steel Cage: Stamped steel cages are similar to pressed steel cages but are typically more complex in design. Stamped steel cages offer good strength, durability, and reliability in applications with moderate to high loads and speeds. These cages are cost-effective and widely used in various types of bearings.

Brass Cage with Rivets: In some applications, brass cages are reinforced with rivets to improve strength and stability. Brass cages with rivets provide enhanced durability and load-carrying capacity, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications where reliable performance under high loads is essential.

Full Complement Cage: Full complement bearings do not have a cage and instead contain a maximum number of rolling elements. This design allows for higher load-carrying capacity but may result in increased friction and lower operating speeds compared to caged bearings. Full complement cages are used in applications where maximizing load capacity is a priority.

The selection of the appropriate cage type for a bearing depends on various factors such as load requirements, operating speeds, environmental conditions, and application-specific needs. Each type of cage offers unique advantages and is chosen to optimize the performance and longevity of the bearing in its intended application.