Machine operation and load movement should focus on efficiency to minimize the force needed and friction from such movements. Therefore, instead of depending on the main bearings alone, you need support bearings called cam followers.

The cam followers smoothen the task by converting rotary motion to reciprocation or oscillation, making maneuvering the load in any direction easier. They are mostly placed between the main bearings, supporting the load centrally and offering an extra boost to the main bearings.

Due to their central and integral purposes, there are various types you can buy for different needs and purses. Despite having a universal role, you must select the perfect type for the application in mind. Therefore, if you are purchasing some, here are guidelines for selecting the best one. 

1. Type Of Machine And Applications

Whenever you operate different machines, you must understand the frictional impact of such machines and the load on bearings. 

An example is operating a high-load, heavy machine, which will have a tremendous heat impact on the bearings. Therefore, you should be worried about overheating and gradual expansion, which can limit the cam follower's efficiency. 

Therefore, consider the cam follower material to ensure the best bearing to withstand the load and weight impacts. It should be made of friction-resistant, high-heat tolerance, and durable materials, making it ideal for the roles. The same should apply when operating machines at higher speeds or with more moving parts.

Next, you should focus on the design. Generally, there are two major designs: ball and stud, which can withstand higher loads and high-speed machine usage. Those used for high-speed and movable parts should have the needle tapered or cylindrical to withstand the pressure.

2. Nature Of The Surface

Ideally, a smooth surface is advised for heavy machinery or large-scale operations, enabling the followers to roll smoothly without the friction or hurdle caused by an uneven surface. However, if you can't level the surface, you should consider the type of bearings you purchase. 

For ease of work, you can buy track surface cam followers suited for use on various tracks. Ensure you buy ones suited for the exact track surface. For instance, if the track is straight, you can buy the cylinder cam followers to maintain direction. If the track involves turns, buy ball cam followers to enable you to change direction easily.

Secondly, if the track is rough, you should consider lubricated bearings. Lubrication reduces friction impact and the energy needed to push the machine. 

Not any lubricant cam follower will work. Choose the type of lubricant based on various factors. For example, grease-lubricated bearings are needed for rugged and rougher surfaces, while oil-lubricated bearings are preferred for smoother and heavier machines on a track.

3. Type Of Follower

You now understand that there are different cam followers, each with strengths, weaknesses, and best applications. Therefore, before deciding which type you need, focus on the task, the machines you plan to use, and the bearing needed.

Generally, bearings are ideal for making work easier. You can also buy them to ensure no damage to the goods you are pulling. For such needs, you should focus on certain designs like the coating and shape to maximize efficiency while protecting the load.

Otherwise, you can opt for other types to help you pull or push things easily. You should always consider lubricated ones to help you reduce friction and improve the speed. Within this category, you can consider lightly or thickly lubricated ones. The pick will depend on the task at hand. 

4. Bearing Capacity and Durability

Bearings are made to withstand certain load pressure and capacity. Exceeding the capacity can lead to two consequences. First, the bearing can burst, leading to accidents. Second, the pressure will cause the cams to sink into the ground and, thus, damage surfaces. Either way, it becomes difficult to move any load.

Therefore, durability and capacity should be considered before buying any type. If you plan to use them repeatedly, consider bigger ones made from steel and other materials. They can withstand friction and all the pressure from the load. 

Secondly, due to frequent use, they are vulnerable to friction. Consider a coating like lubricant or any heat-resistant material for protection from the bearings, corrosion, rust, and weather-resistant products. You can always store them for later needs. 

Any cam follower can withstand the capacity, but not for long. Eventually, they will burst or reduce in size, and their purposes will diminish due to their size.

5. Environment Where You Use The Machines

Heat, cold, and other conditions can significantly reduce the significance of cam followers. For instance, the conditions can speed up wear and tear or cause rusting. All these conditions eventually reduce efficacy. Whether indoors, outdoors, or on a factory floor, you must consider environmental conditions to help with the selection. 

Regardless of the task, weight, and environment, always consider followers made from weather-resistant materials. If you are uncertain about the surrounding conditions, consider durable and multipurpose cam followers. These include nickel, bronze, and composite followers, which can withstand any conditions due to their self-lubricating capabilities. These traits enable them to remain effective in any environment, even extreme colds. 

Secondly, regardless of your choice, ensure the bearing has lighter lubrication to provide a protective layer and coating. The layer can protect the bearing in cold and hot environments, limiting the impacts of big loads and rapid uses.

Conclusion

You should be diligent when selecting the perfect cam followers for all your duties and load movements. 

Consider the nature of the task, load capacity, purpose, surroundings, and other factors to help you pick the ideal one. Also, focus on extra protection like coating and material layering.