Is there a difference between a roller follower vs cam follower?
Not all mechanical components are engineered the same way. There are specific differences in the technology used for the basis behind their designs. One such dividing line is between roller followers vs cam followers.
If you’re not familiar with the differences, you might end up making a choice that is not ideal. Today, we’ll give you a guide to help you decide which type to choose for your application.
Read on to learn more!
How a Roller Follower Works
A roller follower is a wheeled device that rolls on a rail or track roller. The wheel is typically made of metal or plastic and is mounted on a rotating shaft.
The user moves the roller follower along the rail or track by pushing or pulling on the frame. The wheel allows the user to move the roller follower smoothly along the rail or track.
In industries like robotics and the production of automobiles, where load capacity and precision are crucial, roller followers are often used.
How a Cam Follower Works
A cam follower rests on top of a cam and transmits the rotation of the cam to another object. The cam follower has cam bearings that allow it to rotate around the cam. It has a wheel to transfer the cam’s rotation to another object, such as a belt or chain.
Cams are used in engines, and they’re used to transfer rotational force into linear force. The greaseless cam follower is a crucial part of this process, as it sits on the cam and converts the rotational force into linear force.
The Key Differences
The main difference is how they transmit force. Roller followers transmit force through the rolling action of the roller, while cam followers transmit force through direct contact between the follower and the cam lobe.
Another key difference between roller and cam followers is their load capacity. Roller followers can support higher loads than cam followers due to the increased contact area between the roller and the cam lobe.
The Benefits of Roller Followers
Roller followers offer several advantages over traditional cam followers. They offer a much smoother operation and are less likely to bind or jam.
Additionally, they are much more durable and can withstand higher loads. They are easier to adjust and maintain and offer a more comprehensive range of motion.
Roller and cam followers are two types of bearings used for different purposes. Roller followers are used for high-load and speed applications, such as automotive wheel bearings.
The Benefits of Cam Followers
Cam followers typically have a higher load capacity and can withstand shock and weight loads better. They also tend to have a lower profile, which can be beneficial in applications where space is limited.
Additionally, cam followers typically have higher precision than roller followers, which can be crucial in applications requiring close tolerances. Cam followers are less expensive. It also can self-align, which is a significant advantage in some applications.
Know the Difference Between a Roller Follower vs Cam Follower Today
There are a few key differences between roller followers and cam followers. Roller followers have higher load capacity and more precise tracking, making them ideal for heavy-duty industrial applications.
On the other hand, Cam followers are less expensive and have lower load capacity but can follow irregular shapes more easily. Remember, your application’s best type of follower will depend on your specific needs and requirements.
We hope this article helps you out. For more great articles, check out the rest of our blogs!