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Do You Know Universal Cross Bearing Work And Use?

6 Published by admin Jan 26,2026

Universal cross bearing (universal joints) transmit power between rotating shafts at varying angles, primarily used in vehicle drivetins (propeller shafts in rear-wheel-drive cars, trains) to connect the transmission to the wheels, allowing for movement. They enable smooth power transfer by accommodating angular misalignment, featuring a cross-shaped spider with needle roller bearings that allow rotation in multiple planes, found in automotive, industrial, robotics, and even aerospace applications for high precision and load handling.

Universal Cross Bearing Main Uses

Automotive Drivetrains: Connecting the transmission to the rear axle in RWD vehicles, handling the up-and-down movement of the suspension.
Commercial Vehicles: Used in propeller shafts for trucks and buses.
Railway Systems: Transmitting power from engine to wheels on trains, adapting to track curves and elevation changes.
Industrial Machinery: Coupling rotating shafts in various machines where alignment isn't perfect.
Robotics & Precision Equipment: High-precision versions for precise power transmission in robots and sensitive instruments.
Military & Aerospace: Used in surveillance cameras, radar systems, and aircraft applications due to high rigidity and accuracy.

How Universal Cross Bearing Work

A central "spider" or "cross" connects four arms, each holding a needle roller bearing (cap).
These bearings allow the input and output shafts (connected to the yoke arms) to pivot relative to each other.
They transmit torque efficiently even when shafts are not in perfect alignment.

Universal Cross Bearing Components

- Cross (Spider): The central, four-armed component, usually hardened alloy steel, with journals (trunnions) on each arm.
- Yokes (Forks): Two opposing yokes, one on the input shaft and one on the output shaft, with holes to receive the cross's journals.
- Needle Bearings/Bushings: Small roller bearings (or bushings in simpler designs) placed in the yoke ears to allow the cross journals to rotate with minimal friction.
- Seals: Rubber seals (often nitrile) keep grease in and contaminants out, preventing premature failure.