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Table of content
1. Correct Way to Install Thrust Ball Bearing Steps
2. Thrust Ball Bearing Installation Guidelines
3. Common Errors During Thrust Ball Bearing Installation
Thrust ball bearing is a type of rolling bearing designed to handle axial loads, allowing the shaft to rotate or move in one direction while preventing motion in the opposite direction. It consists of three main components: the shaft washer, the housing washer, and the ball-and-cage assembly.
The usual steps for installing a thrust ball bearing are as follows: First, install the housing washer, then place the cage with steel ball assembly on top, and finally add the shaft washer. The shaft washer secures the shaft's axis and allows it to rotate. Detailed steps with Below are the detailed steps with illustrated demonstrations.
Prepare a set of thrust ball bearing components, including the housing washer, shaft washer, and the ball-and-cage assembly.
Place the housing washer/shaft washer near the fixed component (in practical applications, this part is positioned close to the fixed location), as shown in the picture right.
Install the cage with steel ball assembly above the housing washer (or shaft washer).
Add the shaft washer (or housing washer), as shown in the picture right.
A fully assembled thrust ball bearing is shown in the left picture.
The fitting of thrust bearings with the axis is generally transitional, and the fitting of the ring with the bearing bore is a clearance fit. Therefore, this type of bearing is easier to install.
Learn more: How to Install a Bearing ? Bearing Installation Methods 
In general, the axis rotates. Therefore, the fit between the inner ring and the shaft is a interference fit, while the fit between the outer ring and the bearing seat is a clearance fit.
Thrust ball bearings primarily bear axial loads during operation. Despite the relatively simple installation process, errors can occur during actual repairs. The most common error is incorrectly installing the housing washer and the shaft washer, which renders the bearing useless and accelerates wear-out of the bearing journal.
Learn more: Axial Bearings: Principles of Operation, Applications, and Selection
In an incorrect example, if the inner diameter of the shaft washer is in a transition fit with the shaft journal, rotation of the shaft can cause the shaft washer to move, resulting in friction on the stationary end face. When subjected to axial force (Fx), the friction torque may exceed the resistance torque of the inner diameter fit, forcing the shaft washer to rotate and exacerbating wear on the shaft journal.
Correct Example
Incorrect Example
(1). Distinguish between the bearing's housing washer and shaft washer.
(2). Identify the stationary part of the mechanical assembly (the non-moving part).
(3). In all situations, the housing washer of the bearing should be snug against the surface of the stationary part.
You have now completed the entire guide on thrust ball bearing installation. If you still have any questions regarding the installation process, please feel free to contact us. The ISK BEARINGS consulting team will be happy to assist you in resolving any issues.
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