TAPERED ROLLER BEARING CAGES

● Stamped-steel cages

   The most common type of cage used for tapered roller bearings is the stamped-steel cage. These cages are mass produced

   from low-carbon sheet steel using a series of cutting, forming and punching operations. These cages can be used in high 

   temperature and harsh lubricant environments. 

stamped-steel cage

● Polymer cages

   Cages for tapered roller bearings made of polymer material are used primarily for pre-greased and sealed package designs. 

   The most common polymer materials used are Nylon thermoplastics with glass reinforcement. Polymer cages can be mass 

   produced in large quantities and offer more design flexibility than stampedsteel types. Polymer cages are lightweight and 

   easy to assemble.In some instances, increased bearing rating can be achieved by allowing one or two extra rollers in the 

   bearing complement. Care should be exercised when using aggressive lubricants with EP (extreme-pressure) additives in 

   combination with elevated temperatures greater than 107° C (225° F)

polymer cages

● Machined cages 

   Machined cages for tapered roller bearings are robust in design and are suited for high-speed and high-load applications. 

   Machined cages use alloy steels and are produced through milling and broaching operations. Assembly does not require a 

   close-in operation and rollers can be retained using nibs or staking. Oil holes also can be easily added for extra lubrication 

   for demanding applications. Some designs are silver plated for special applications.

machined cages

● Pin-type cages

   Tapered roller bearing pin-type cages retain the rolling elements by the use of a pin located through an axial hole in the center

   of the roller. Pin-type cages for tapered roller bearings consist of two rings with roller pins attached by screw threads at one end

   and welding at the other end. These types of cages are primarily used for larger tapered roller bearing designs (greater than 400

   mm [15.7480 in.] O.D.). Pin-type cages are machined out of steel and typically allow for an increased number of rolling 

   elements. Pin-type cages are restricted to low-speed applications (less than 20 m/sec [4000 ft/min] rib speed).