Thrust bearings is a type of bearing designed specifically to handle axial loads only. It consists of balls positioned two flat or grooved washers that help maintain alignment and ensure smooth rotation. They are, therefore, not suitable for applications involving radial and axial loads simultaneously
At its core, a thrust bearing consists of three main components:
1. Two washers – These are flat or grooved discs that serve as the raceways for the rolling elements. One washer is typically stationary, mounted to a fixed part of the system, while the other rotates with the shaft.
2. Rolling elements (balls or rollers) – These allow for smooth rotation and reduce friction between the two washers.
3. A cage (retainer) – This component evenly spaces the rolling elements and keeps them in alignment during operation.
There are several types of thrust bearings, including thrust ball bearings, cylindrical thrust roller bearings, double direction thrust ball bearing, tapered roller thrust bearings and spherical roller thrust bearings. Each type offers distinct load-carrying capacities and performance characteristics. Here, we focus on miniature thrust ball bearings with flat washers.
Miniature thrust ball bearings with flat washers
A miniature thrust ball bearing with flat washers is suitable for shaft sizes ranging from 2mm to 10mm and will support axial loads in both directions.
The flat washers are of equal size unlike grooved washers. The grooved washer alternative has a raceway in each washer and can handle axial loads in one direction only.
Chrome steel is the most common material used for the washers and balls because of its high load capacity. These three-part bearings are designed to support purely axial thrust loads in one or both directions and are not suitable for radial load or combined loading conditions.
As the washers lack a raceway, they are suitable for low-speed applications. Axial thrust is the force applied along the axis, also known as the axial direction. In addition, the load capacity is much lower than thrust bearings with grooved washers.
We supply our flat washer thrust bearings with a brass cage and have them available from stock in the UK.
Thrust bearing applications
Unlike radial bearings, which accommodate forces vertical to the shaft, thrust bearings are used in applications where there is only an axial force. They are commonly used in automotive components, medical instruments and small robotic assemblies. The flat washers provide a simple and effective raceway surface for the balls in low-speed applications.
However, they are not suitable for high-speed or high-load environments, which typically require grooved thrust ball bearings or tapered roller designs.
Thrust bearings are essential components designed to support axial loads and ensure smooth, reliable rotation in various types of machinery. By handling forces that act parallel to the shaft, they provide stability and precision in demanding conditions where axial force is dominant.
Thrust bearings are widely used across industries where axial load capacity and low friction performance are critical. Common applications include automotive transmissions and marine propulsion systems. In aerospace and energy sectors, thrust bearings play a vital role in jet engines and hydraulic equipment.
Selecting the right thrust bearing depends on factors such as load capacity, operating speed, lubrication and temperature.
Temperature restrictions
Chrome steel thrust bearings can be used at temperatures of 120 degrees Celsius constantly or up to 150 degrees Celsius occasionally. To reach these temperatures, the bearings require the right lubricant.
Chrome steel has a reduced load capacity above these temperatures. You cannot use these bearings in corrosive environments as the chrome steel material is not corrosion resistant. However, we add a layer of preservative oil to coat chrome steel thrust bearings to protect them against moisture.
Chrome steel is a great choice because of its low-noise characteristics, high strength and affordability
Thrust ball bearing lubrication
At SMB Bearings, we operate a fully equipped in-house relubrication facility, allowing us to clean and relubricate both bearings from our stock and customer-supplied units. This service is ideal for applications with special performance or environmental requirements, where standard lubrication may not be suitable.
We can supply our miniature thrust bearings — as well as other bearing types — with customer-specified oils, greases, or dry lubricants, including options for high-temperature, food-safe, low-noise, or vacuum conditions. Whether you need enhanced speed performance, chemical resistance or minimal friction, our team can tailor the lubrication to meet your exact specifications.
This service ensures optimal bearing performance and extended service life — all handled with precision and care at our UK-based facility.
Click on INFO in the rows below to display technical drawings of the miniature thrust bearings with load and speed data.
Please note that we use the maximum loads and speeds in theoretical life calculations. To make bearings last longer, we recommend using them at lower loads and speeds than their maximum ratings.
See product table below for dimensions and technical drawings
Get in touch with our experienced team today by emailing sales@smbbearings.com or fill in the contact form.
See product variants below to learn more about our grooved washer options
