Angular contact ball bearings are a crucial component in many industrial and mechanical applications, designed to handle radial and axial loads simultaneously. Their unique internal design allows for high-speed performance and precision, making them ideal for machine tools, pumps, automotive systems, and industrial machinery.

Among the different types of angular contact ball bearings, single-row and double-row designs are the most widely used. Each has distinct advantages depending on the application.

Single-Row Angular Contact Ball Bearings

Single-row angular contact ball bearings are designed to handle high axial loads in one direction, thanks to the contact angle between the raceways and the balls. These bearings are often used in applications where a high-speed rotation and precise positioning are required.

Key Characteristics:

✔ High-speed capability – Ideal for applications requiring rapid rotation.

✔ Axial load handling in one direction – Requires a second bearing for counteracting forces.

✔ Lighter and more compact design – Suitable for limited space applications.

✔ Common contact angles: 15°, 25°, 30°, and 40°, depending on the load requirements.

Typical Applications:

✔Machine tool spindles

✔Automotive gearboxes

✔Pumps and compressors

✔Electric motors

To improve load distribution, single-row angular contact ball bearings are often mounted in pairs (back-to-back, face-to-face, or tandem arrangements), ensuring stability and enhanced load-bearing capacity.

Double-Row Angular Contact Ball Bearings

Double-row angular contact ball bearings are essentially two single-row bearings combined into one, allowing them to handle axial loads in both directions. This makes them a more compact and cost-effective solution in applications where dual-directional axial load support is needed.

Key Characteristics:

✔ Handles axial loads in both directions – No need for paired bearings.

✔ Higher radial load capacity – Due to the dual-row design.

✔ Compact and rigid construction – Saves space while ensuring stability.

✔ Common contact angles: Typically 30°, balancing axial and radial load capabilities.

Typical Applications:

✔Conveyor systems

✔Agricultural machinery

✔Industrial gearboxes

✔Steering mechanisms in vehicles

Since double-row angular contact ball bearings eliminate the need for pairing, they are often preferred in applications where installation simplicity and space-saving are critical.

Which Bearing Should You Choose?

When selecting between single-row and double-row angular contact ball bearings, consider the following:

For high-speed applications requiring precision and light design, a single-row angular contact ball bearing is the best choice.

For applications that demand axial load support in both directions, a double-row angular contact ball bearing offers a more compact and efficient solution.

If space is a limitation, double-row bearings eliminate the need for additional bearings, reducing the overall footprint.

For machine tools and high-performance automotive parts, single-row bearings with paired configurations provide flexibility in load management.

Conclusion

Both single-row and double-row angular contact ball bearings have their own advantages, depending on the specific requirements of an application. Choosing the right bearing type can improve machine efficiency, operational lifespan, and overall performance.

If you're looking for high-quality angular contact ball bearings for your industrial needs, explore our range of precision-engineered bearings designed for durability and high performance.

Contact us today for expert guidance on selecting the right bearing for your application!