Friction bearings are primarily designed to carry which type of loads?

Friction bearings, also known as plain bearings, are primarily designed to carry radial loads. These bearings utilize sliding motion between the shaft and the bearing surface, allowing for smooth movement as the shaft rotates. The primary function of these bearings is to support loads that act perpendicular to the shaft's axis, which constitutes a radial load. In applications where these bearings are used, such as in motors and various machinery components, they effectively manage the forces generated during operation.

Radial loads are typical in many types of rotating equipment, making friction bearings an ideal choice given their ability to handle these types of loads efficiently and with relatively low wear rates when adequately lubricated. The materials used in friction bearings, combined with the design, focus on maximizing load-bearing capacity while minimizing friction, thereby enhancing the longevity and performance of the machinery they support.