Axial Deep Groove Ball Bearing

What Is an Axial Deep Groove Ball Bearing?

An axial deep groove ball bearing, more commonly called a thrust ball bearing, is designed to carry load that runs along the length of a shaft, known as axial or thrust load. Instead of the balls running between an inner and outer ring like a normal bearing, they sit inside a groove between two flat metal washers, one attached to the shaft and one attached to the housing.

As the shaft turns, the load pushes straight down through the washers and balls rather than sideways, which is why this bearing type cannot support any meaningful side load on its own. It is almost always paired with a separate radial bearing that handles the sideways support, while the thrust bearing takes care of the end-to-end push.

These bearings are made in single direction and double direction versions. A single direction type holds thrust load from only one side, while a double direction type has an extra washer in the middle and can hold thrust load pushing from either direction.

Axial Deep Groove Ball Bearing vs Radial Deep Groove Ball Bearing: What Is the Difference?

A radial deep groove ball bearing is built to carry load pushing sideways against the shaft and can also handle a small amount of end thrust as a secondary function. An axial deep groove ball bearing is built the opposite way around: it is made specifically for end-to-end thrust load and offers almost no support against sideways force. When a shaft has both types of load, engineers commonly fit one of each, letting every bearing do the job it is best suited for.

Types of Axial Deep Groove Ball Bearings

• Single Direction Thrust Ball Bearing: This is the most common type, carrying thrust load from one direction only. It suits vertical pumps, lead screws, and machine spindles.
• Double Direction Thrust Ball Bearing: Built with a shared central washer, this version handles thrust load pushing from either direction, useful in reversing drives and worm gear units.
• Thrust Ball Bearing with Sphered Housing Washer: A slightly curved housing washer allows this type to self-align, absorbing small shaft or housing misalignment without extra stress on the balls.
• Flat Seating Thrust Ball Bearing:This basic design uses two plain flat washers and is chosen for straightforward, well-aligned shaft setups where cost matters most.

Axial Deep Groove Ball Bearing: Part Numbers, Sizes & Applications

The table below shows common thrust ball bearing series, their general size range, and where each is typically used. Share your shaft size and thrust load with our technical team for an exact recommendation.

Benefits of Choosing the Right Axial Deep Groove Ball Bearing

• Handles Pure Thrust Load Well: Built specifically for end-to-end load, so it performs better here than a general-purpose bearing.
• Simple, Compact Design: Few parts and a straightforward shape keep it easy to fit and replace.
• Available in Single or Double Direction: Covers both one-way and reversing thrust load situations.
• Self-Aligning Option Available: A sphered washer version copes with minor shaft misalignment automatically.
• Cost-Effective for Thrust Duty: Cheaper than trying to make one bearing handle both radial and heavy thrust load.
• Widely Available Standard Sizes: Common bore sizes make replacement and stock planning simple for maintenance teams.

Country-Wise Use of Axial Deep Groove Ball Bearings in Our Export Network

The type of machinery common in each country decides how axial deep groove ball bearings are usually put to use. Here is a short country-by-country picture:

How to Select the Right Axial Deep Groove Ball Bearing

• Confirm Thrust Direction: Choose single direction for one-way load, or double direction if load reverses.
• Calculate Axial Load Only: Remember this bearing type is not meant to carry meaningful side load.
• Check for Shaft Misalignment: A sphered housing washer version helps where perfect alignment is hard to guarantee.
• Pair With a Radial Bearing: Plan for a separate bearing nearby to support any sideways load on the shaft.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing an Axial Deep Groove Ball Bearing

• Expecting It to Carry Side Load: Using it alone on a shaft with real radial load leads to fast bearing failure.
• Fitting It the Wrong Way Round: Mixing up the shaft washer and housing washer can damage the bearing quickly.
• Choosing Single Direction for Reversing Load: A single direction type cannot hold load pushing back the other way.
• Skipping Flatness Checks on Mating Parts: An uneven seating surface causes uneven load on the balls and early wear.

Simple Maintenance Tips for Longer Life

Check for any end-play or looseness along the shaft during routine inspection, since this often signals early wear in the thrust washers. Keep the recommended grease type topped up, as thrust bearings depend on a steady grease film between the balls and washers. Inspect the shaft and housing seating surfaces whenever the bearing is removed, since a damaged seating surface will quickly wear out even a brand-new bearing.

Get a quick export quote for axial deep groove ball bearings from Shree Balaji Export — reliable delivery to Sri Lanka, South Africa, UAE, Nigeria, Egypt, Indonesia, Thailand, Kuwait and worldwide.