Needle Roller Thrust Cages
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Needle Roller Thrust Cages
What is a needle roller thrust cage?
A needle roller thrust cage, also called an axial needle roller and cage assembly, is a flat ring-shaped cage holding needle rollers arranged like the spokes of a wheel. It carries axial loads, which act along the line of the shaft, and is the core part of a needle roller thrust bearing. On its own it is only as thick as the needles, so it fits into the smallest possible axial space.
A standard needle roller thrust cage has two main parts:
- A flat cage, usually made of hardened steel or glass fibre reinforced polyamide
- A set of needle rollers held radially in the cage pockets.
The cage is designed to run between two raceways.
- These can be the hardened and ground faces of the shaft shoulder and housing, which saves the most space.
- Or they can be separate thrust washers, fitted on one or both sides where the faces are not hard enough.
The cage locates the needles accurately and keeps them evenly spaced, which lets the bearing run at higher speeds than loose needles. It is usually centred on the shaft by its bore, so it runs true. Needles are made from hardened chrome steel (grade 52100), and are made to a very tight diameter tolerance so they share the load evenly.
Why are needle roller thrust cages essential?
They give the highest axial load capacity for the smallest axial space of any rolling thrust bearing component. Because there are no washers unless they are needed, a cage running on hardened faces is the thinnest possible thrust bearing. This makes them ideal for gearboxes, transmissions, and compact machinery where every millimetre along the shaft counts.
They are also low in cost and easy to fit, and can be combined with thin or thick washers to suit the design. Their dimensions are standardised, so a cage of a given reference has the same bore, outer diameter, and thickness, regardless of which reputable manufacturer makes it.
Typical applications include:
- Automotive gearboxes and transmissions
- Differentials and transfer cases
- Planetary gear sets
- Steering systems
- Pumps and compressors
- Power tools
- Agricultural and construction machinery
- Swivel joints and turntables
- Household appliances
The main types of needle roller thrust cages
- Steel cage assemblies - These are the standard design and by far the most common. They are strong, suited to high temperatures, and used in most gearboxes and machinery.
- Polyamide cage assemblies - These have a glass fibre reinforced polyamide cage. They are light and quiet, but typically limited to around 120°C in continuous use.
- Cage assemblies supplied with washers - The cage supplied with one or two thrust washers as a ready-to-fit set, for designs where the faces are not hardened.
- Metric and inch cage assemblies - Both are widely available. Metric types are sized in mm, while inch types are sized in fractions of an inch.
How to choose the right needle roller thrust cage?
- Size and dimensions - The bore must suit the shaft, and the outer diameter must fit the housing recess. Check the thickness of the cage, plus any washers, fits the space available.
- Load - Work out the axial load and whether it is steady or involves shocks. Compare it with the cage’s basic dynamic load rating and basic static load rating, which are published in manufacturers’ catalogues. Thrust cages carry no radial load, so a separate radial bearing is needed.
- Raceways - If the shaft shoulder and housing face are hardened, typically to at least 58 HRC, and ground flat, the cage can run directly on them. If not, add thrust washers on one or both sides.
- Centring - The cage is usually centred on the shaft by its bore. Check the shaft diameter suits the cage bore so it runs true.
- Minimum load - Thrust cages need a minimum axial load at all times to stop the needles skidding, which damages the raceways.
- Cage material - Steel cages suit high temperatures and heavy duty. Polyamide cages are lighter and quieter.
Essential references and specialised ranges
How the numbering works:
AXK = axial needle roller and cage assembly
The numbers show the bore and outer diameter in mm:
The first two digits are the bore, and the last two are the outer diameter, so an AXK 1226 has a 12mm bore and 26mm outer diameter.
For bores of 100mm and above, the number is longer, such as AXK 100135.
Matching washers share the same numbers, so an AXK 1226 cage is used with AS 1226 (thin) or LS 1226 (thicker) washers.
Always check the bore, outer diameter, and thickness before ordering a replacement.
Suffixes:
TV = glass fibre reinforced polyamide cage
Suffix codes vary between manufacturers, so check the supplier’s catalogue for the exact meaning.
FAQ - All you need to know about needle roller thrust cages
What is the difference between a thrust cage and a thrust bearing?
A thrust cage is just the needles and cage. A complete thrust bearing is the cage together with one or two thrust washers. If the shaft shoulder and housing face are hardened, the cage can be used on its own.
Can a thrust cage run without washers?
Yes, if the faces it runs against are hardened and ground flat. If they are soft or rough, the needles will wear grooves into them, so thrust washers should be fitted.
Can needle roller thrust cages take radial loads?
No. They are designed for axial loads only. Any radial load must be carried by a separate radial bearing, such as a needle roller bearing or bush.
Do needle roller thrust cages need lubrication?
Yes, lubrication separates the needles from the raceways, reduces friction, and protects against corrosion. Because the outer end of each needle travels further than the inner end, the needles slide slightly as they roll, so good lubrication is especially important. Most are lubricated by oil from the surrounding gearbox or by grease.
Click here to learn how to maintain a bearing.
Can I replace a needle roller thrust cage myself?
In most cases, yes. The cage simply slides onto the shaft and sits between the two running faces or washers. Check the running faces for wear, grooves, or marks before fitting, as the new cage will only last if they are in good condition. Never mix needles between cages.
How do I identify a thrust cage I need to replace?
The reference is sometimes marked on the cage. If it is not marked, measure the bore, outer diameter, and thickness with callipers. Also note whether the cage is steel or polyamide, and whether it runs on washers or directly on the shaft and housing faces.
Click here to learn how to measure a bearing.
How can I tell if a thrust cage is worn or failing?
Warning signs include:
- Grinding, clicking, or rattling noises
- Increased axial play in the shaft
- Missing, loose, or damaged needles
- A cracked, worn, or distorted cage
- Ring-shaped wear tracks, pitting, or grooves on the running faces or washers
- Discoloured needles from overheating
