Industrial water pumps contain several different types of bearings. They all serve the same purpose, though, which is to reduce friction on various moving parts. By supporting the shaft, bearings ensure that centrifugal, reciprocating, and rotary pumps can rotate smoothly. Here are some of the most common types of bearings used in industrial water pumps.

What Are Some of the Different Types of Water Pump Bearings? 

1. Roller Bearings

Roller bearings use cylindrical, tapered, or needle barrels to support radial and axial loads. Compared to ball bearings, roller bearings can support much heavier loads because they distribute the weight over a larger surface area. Instead of balancing the load on a single point, the entire length of the roller supports the weight. These bearings have some limitations when it comes to axial loads, however, because they cannot withstand the same high rotational speeds that ball bearings can. 

2. Ball Bearings

Ball bearings use spheres to maintain the separation between at least two bearing tracks while transmitting loads. In most cases, one track is stationary, while the other rotates because it’s attached to the hub or shaft. As the track rotates, the spheres do, too. 

3. Sleeve Bearings

Cylindrical in shape without any moving parts, sleeve bearings can withstand both heavy loads and high velocities. Because they can move freely in the axial or radial direction relative to one another—and to their mating components—sleeve bearings are usually called “floating bearings.” Made of metal, plastic, or a metallic alloy, they can support only radial loads. 

4. Pivot Shoe Bearings

Also called tilt shoe or Kingsbury, pivot shoe bearings mostly support axial loads. As such, they’re primarily used in centrifugal water pumps. Comprised of steel, they have a babbit metal, or lead-based, overlay and rest on a ball, which allows for alignment, flexibility, and lift in high-powered applications. 

If the bearings in your water pumps need replacing, turn to Western Environmental Management for all the necessary parts. Located in Carlsbad, NM, this water treatment company has been serving commercial and industrial clients throughout Eddy County since 1982. Their experts specialize in cleaning and maintaining various of water systems. To learn more about their services, visit their website or call (575) 885-5709.