What type of loads can an angular contact bearing withstand?

Angular contact bearings are specifically designed to handle a combination of radial and thrust loads simultaneously. This versatility is one of their defining characteristics. The contact angle of these bearings allows them to support loads in both directions, which is essential in applications where the direction of the load can change or where loads occur simultaneously from different vectors.

In addition to being able to bear the radial load, which is perpendicular to the shaft, angular contact bearings excel at managing thrust loads, which are parallel to the shaft. The ability to support both load types makes them highly efficient for use in scenarios such as rotating shafts or high-speed applications where load conditions frequently vary.

Other choices do not represent the full capabilities of angular contact bearings. For example, bearings that only handle radial loads would not be suitable in applications where thrust loads are present, limiting their usability. Thrust load-only bearings would not provide adequate support when radial components are introduced. Static loads are also not a function of angular contact bearings, as these are designed to operate effectively under dynamic conditions. Therefore, recognizing the unique capability of angular contact bearings to deal with both radial and thrust loads is key to understanding their application and performance in machinery.