Which terms are used to express the directions of bearing loads?

The terms used to express the directions of bearing loads are commonly defined in the context of how bearings support and manage forces acting upon them. "Radial load" refers to the force exerted perpendicular to the shaft's axis, which primarily acts towards the center of the bearing. This type of load is significant in applications where the motion is predominantly rotational, as it reflects the majority of force encountered in radial bearings.

"Thrust load," on the other hand, pertains to forces that are directed along the axis of the shaft. These loads arise when there is a need for supporting axial forces, such as those found in gear applications or when a screw is engaging with a surface.

"Combination load" is a term that denotes scenarios where both radial and thrust loads are present simultaneously. This is crucial for applications dealing with complex load conditions and ensures that bearings can accommodate the various forces encountered during operation.

The understanding of these terms is essential for selecting the appropriate bearings for specific applications, as they determine the bearing's load-carrying capacity and performance in real-world scenarios. The correct terminology allows millwrights and engineers to effectively communicate and design systems that will adequately support the mechanical components involved.