The primary function of a bearing is to enable the controlled transfer of loads and motion while minimizing friction and wear. Bearings achieve this through the use of rolling elements, such as balls or rollers, or through sliding surfaces, depending on the specific type of bearing. By doing so, bearings help to maintain the integrity and alignment of rotating shafts, axles, and other mechanical components, ensuring smooth and efficient operation of the machinery.

The term angle of contact in the context of ball bearings refers to the angle formed between the direction of the load and a line perpendicular to the bearing axis. In the case of angular contact ball bearings, this angle is specifically designed to optimize the bearing's ability to support combined radial and axial loads, as well as pure axial loads in a specific direction.

   - Spherical Roller Bearings: Spherical roller bearings have barrel-shaped rolling elements (spherical rollers) that are positioned between an inner ring with two raceways and an outer ring with a common spherical raceway. This design allows the bearing to accommodate misalignment and axial displacement.