In bearing terminology, what does the term "Cage" refer to?

The term "Cage" in bearing terminology refers to the component that separates and guides the rolling elements, such as balls or rollers, within the bearing assembly. This essential part serves multiple functions: it helps maintain the proper spacing between the rolling elements to prevent them from coming into contact with each other, which can lead to wear and failure. Additionally, the cage keeps the rolling elements aligned as they rotate, ensuring smooth operation and minimizing friction and heat generation.

The effectiveness of the cage directly impacts the bearing's performance and longevity. By providing a means to hold the rolling elements in uniform positions, it enables more efficient load distribution and contributes to the overall stability of the bearing under operating conditions. Thus, this role is vital for the bearing's functionality, making the cage an important feature in bearing design and engineering.