When should I use a plain bearing – when a rolling bearing?
| Advantages of rolling bearings compared to plain bearings | Disadvantages of rolling bearings compared to plain bearings |
| – Low friction, therefore low heat development – No stick-slip effect (starting torque barely greater than the operating torque) – Low lubricant requirement – Hardly any care and maintenance necessary – Good standardisation and dimension principles, therefore easily replaceable – Change of direction possible without constructive modification | – Sensitive to shock and vibration at standstill and low speed – Limited maximum speed and service life – Sensitive to dirt accumulation – Expensive construction – Higher noise level |