Parametric Multi-row Thrust Bearing

thingiverse

A parametric thrust bearing race cage generator, this tool allows you to customize the ball bearing size, spacing, as well as the ID/OD of upper and lower sandwich washers. It also lets you adjust the thickness of the cage, number of rows of ball bearings, inclusion of a compressed outside row, and copies generated for single output. The average cost per thrust bearing is less than $0.75. To create a thrust bearing, you'll need 2 matched washers with appropriate ID/OD, a supply of ball bearings, and tape. Firstly, determine the ID/OD of your bearing, any printer slop, ball bearing spacing, and ball bearing diameter. Adjust the number of copies for your application, then print or cut the model. If 3D printing, use appropriate drill bits to clean up interior shaft hole and ball bearings holes. Next, lay two strips of tape on your workspace, followed by a washer on top, ensuring not to block the center hole with tape. Place one printed race cage on the washer, filling bb holes with ball bearings, then carefully place the second washer on top of the ball bearings and wrap the ends of the tape over the top washer without blocking any holes. Secure the thrust bearing in your application and cut the tape using needle-nose pliers before repeating for more bearings. This generator offers options like a set number of ball bearings or autogenerated based on bb diameter, minimum plastic between ball bearings, radius of race for each row, multiple rings/rows of ball bearings, and more. Choose typical metal crossman 4.3mm ball bearings for metal washers, airsoft BBs for metal or plastic washers, and fender washers for multiple rows of ball bearings.