What is the difference between thrust ball bearings and thrust roller bearings?

The rolling elements of thrust ball bearings are spherical, and the rings have corresponding R-shaped channels. This kind of bearing can bear axial load, but cannot bear radial load. Because the rolling elements are spherical and have small friction with the raceway diameter, they can be adapted to situations with higher operating speeds.

The rolling elements of thrust roller bearings are in various forms such as cylindrical, conical or spherical roller types. Mainly bear axial load, conical type and spherical roller type can bear certain axial load. Because the contact area between the rolling elements and the raceway is large, thrust roller bearings have greater friction than thrust ball bearings, and because the limit speed is lower than thrust ball bearings, they are suitable for applications that bear heavy axial loads and low speeds.