Bearings: How do they serve to reduce friction and allow for smoother rotation?
In order for a wheel to rotate, it needs to move. In order for a wheel to move, it must be connected to an axle. However, the axle also needs to be able to rotate – but how can something constantly rotating constantly moving? A bearing! Bearings are a piece of technology that allow axles and wheels (and other objects) constantly rotating constantly moving, allowing them do their jobs with ease and without getting worn down. Bearings come in two varieties: rolling-element bearings and plain bearings. Rolling-element bearings use components that can roll easily, such as ball bearings or roller bearings, while plain bearings contain static components which only support lateral movement. There are many different types of both rolling-element bearings and plain bearings; examples include ball bearing, roller bearing... Read More »