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Ball bearings: purpose of the cage (retainer) Identify the primary function served by the cage in a ball bearing. Choose the correct option.

Difficulty: Easy

To reduce rolling friction
To facilitate slipping of balls
To prevent lubricant from flowing out
To maintain the balls at a fixed distance apart

Correct Answer: To maintain the balls at a fixed distance apart

Explanation:

Concept
The cage (retainer) keeps the balls evenly spaced, preventing contact between adjacent rolling elements, guiding ball paths, and permitting uniform load distribution. It is not a seal (lubricant retention is by shields/seals) and does not exist to promote slip.

Final Answer
To maintain the balls at a fixed distance apart

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