Detailed technical content
Self-alignment and axial displacement in the same bearing
CARB uses a single row of long rollers with a slightly curved profile and toroidal raceways. This geometry allows the bearing both to compensate for angular misalignment and to permit axial displacement of the shaft relative to the housing inside the bearing itself. This differs from a conventional spherical roller bearing in a non-locating position, where axial displacement generally has to occur at the fitted surface of one bearing ring.
CARB was developed by SKF primarily for the non-locating position in a self-aligning bearing system. It carries radial load but is not used to locate the shaft or carry axial load like a locating bearing.
Benefits in shaft systems with thermal expansion
When a long shaft changes length due to temperature, the internal displacement capability prevents additional axial forces from developing because the outer or inner ring is stuck on its fitted surface. At the same time, self-alignment helps maintain better load distribution when deflection or angular misalignment occurs.
When selecting a CARB bearing, check the radial load, misalignment, expected axial displacement, bore type and the bearing’s position in the shaft system. Do not use CARB in a position that must locate the shaft axially unless another bearing performs that function.
