Which bearing type accommodates significant angular misalignment?

Self-aligning bearings are specifically designed to accommodate significant angular misalignment between the shaft and the housing. This capability is crucial in applications where misalignment can occur due to assembly inaccuracies, thermal expansion, or vibrations. The design of self-aligning bearings typically includes two rows of balls or rollers, which are housed in a spherical outer ring. This allows the inner ring (where the shaft is mounted) to pivot slightly, thereby aligning itself with the shaft's centerline and compensating for any misalignment. This feature enhances the overall longevity and reliability of the equipment, preventing premature wear and failure which could arise if misalignment is not tolerantly managed.

In contrast, thrust bearings primarily support axial loads and do not offer the same flexibility for angular misalignment. Needle bearings, with their elongated rollers, focus on minimizing friction in applications with limited radial space but are not designed to handle misalignment. Ball bearings are versatile and commonly used, but they are generally not as effective as self-aligning bearings in situations where angular misalignment is likely to occur. The specific engineering of self-aligning bearings makes them the most suitable choice for handling significant angular misalignment effectively.