The radial load capacity of a linear bearing increases with __________.

• A. A greater number of balls
• B. More lubrication
• C. Higher speed
• D. Larger shaft diameter

Answer: (A)

Radial load capacity of a linear bearing is determined by how many rolling elements share the load. When more balls are present, the load is distributed across a larger number of contact points, reducing the stress on each ball and race and increasing the overall load the system can carry before deformation or failure occurs. This also increases stiffness, meaning less deflection under the same load. Lubrication mainly affects friction and wear, not the inherent load-carrying limit. Higher speed changes dynamic and thermal behavior but not the maximum radial load in the same direct way. A larger shaft diameter alters geometry but doesn’t inherently add more load-bearing elements. So, increasing the number of balls best increases the radial load capacity.