The primary difference between a tapered roller bearing and a ball bearing lies in their design and load-carrying capabilities:

   - Ball Bearing: Ball bearings, including deep groove ball bearings, utilize spherical balls as rolling elements that move between inner and outer raceways. They are primarily designed to support radial loads, with some designs capable of handling limited axial loads. Ball bearings are commonly used in applications where smooth and efficient rotation is required, such as in electric motors, pumps, and gearboxes.

   - Spherical Roller Bearings: Spherical roller bearings are well-suited for applications where misalignment, heavy radial loads, and moderate axial loads are present. Their ability to accommodate misalignment makes them valuable in applications where shaft deflection or housing misalignment may occur.

According to the companies, the partnership will focus on developing materials for use in bearings that are recyclable, biodegradable, and made from sustainable sources. The new materials will be designed to offer improved performance, durability, and reliability, while also reducing the environmental impact of the manufacturing process.

   - Spherical Roller Bearings: Spherical roller bearings are specifically engineered to accommodate misalignment, making them valuable in applications where shaft deflection or housing misalignment may occur. This feature allows them to maintain performance in challenging operating conditions.

It's important to note that while thrust ball bearings have these limitations, they are still valuable components in many applications where axial load support is the primary requirement. Understanding these disadvantages allows engineers and designers to make informed decisions when selecting bearings for specific applications, ensuring that the chosen bearings align with the operational demands and load conditions.