What is the difference between the brass cage and the steel cage used in cylindrical roller bearings?

Dec 03, 2024

There are significant differences between copper cages and steel cages used in cylindrical roller bearings in many aspects. The following is a detailed comparison of the two:

1. Material properties

Brass cage: Usually made of brass or high-strength brass castings, it has good thermal conductivity and wear resistance. Copper has good friction-reducing effects and wear resistance and can withstand high speeds, high loads and changing working conditions.

Steel cage: Generally made of materials such as cold-rolled and hot-rolled steel plates or structural carbon steel, it has high strength and stiffness. The steel cage is harder, not easily deformed, and can withstand large radial loads and axial loads.

2. Applicable scenarios

Brass cage:

Suitable for low speed, high temperature, heavy load and large bumpy situations. Copper cage bearings can withstand larger loads and high temperatures and are suitable for various working conditions of heavy load, high speed, repeated impact and higher temperature.

It can maintain stable performance in humid environments and corrosive media and extend the service life of bearings.

It can produce a lubricating film, reduce wear and friction, and reduce the friction coefficient and operating noise of the bearing while reducing lubrication maintenance and saving energy.

Steel retainer:

Suitable for high-speed, light load and low-temperature applications. By supporting the rollers, the steel retainer can reduce the relative movement of the rollers inside the bearing, thereby reducing bearing wear and friction and increasing the service life of the bearing.

It has high load-bearing capacity and high-precision processing technology, which can ensure the accuracy and stability of the bearing.

Able to operate for long periods under extreme conditions, with high durability and reliability.

3. Structural characteristics

Copper retainer: Common structures include corner type, hook type, bar type and other structures. Among them, the angle type is the most common. The bearing balls are held separately through four angles, and the structure is simple and clear.

Steel retainer: A cylindrical structure composed of several small cylinders. Each small cylinder has small bumps to fix the bearing ball. This structure can reduce the heat generated by motion friction and reduce bearing wear under long-term high-speed operation.

4. Cost and performance trade-off

Copper retainer: Although slightly more expensive, its excellent wear resistance, corrosion resistance and friction reduction effect can significantly extend the service life of the bearing and reduce maintenance costs.

Steel retainer: The cost is relatively low, but the wear resistance is not as good as copper, and it is easy to peel off and stick when rubbing against the rolling elements. At the same time, the steel retainer is also a magnetically conductive material. The residual magnetism generated by the bearing is challenging to eliminate. The worn iron filings are not easy to discharge due to the residual magnetism that may be worn.

To sum up, the differences between copper cages and steel cages used in cylindrical roller bearings are mainly reflected in material properties, applicable scenarios, structural features and cost and performance trade-offs. When selecting, comprehensive considerations should be made based on specific working conditions, performance requirements and cost budget.