Bearings are a critical fastener used throughout the aerospace, defense, and other industries. They have a wide range of uses and therefore come in many types. The primary types of bearings are ball bearings, cylindrical roller bearings, tapered roller bearings, and needle bearings. Ball bearings are the most commonly used, but each type offers its own benefits and drawbacks. This blog will cover each of the four main types of bearings as well as their advantages and disadvantages.

Although bearings are mechanically simple parts, they play a very important role in the aerospace industry. They are found throughout aircraft in components such as wings, flight controls, cockpit controls, auxiliary power units, landing gear, door systems, and aircraft interiors. Besides acting as a fastener, when bearings are applied properly they can increase fuel efficiency, extend maintenance intervals, and lower carbon emissions.