What type of bearings are typically used in wheel hubs?

Wheel hubs typically utilize tapered roller bearings or ball bearings due to their capacity to manage both radial and axial loads effectively.

Tapered roller bearings are particularly advantageous in wheel hubs because they can handle the thrust loads that occur during cornering, as well as the radial loads from the weight of the vehicle. Their design allows for a larger contact area between the rolling elements and the raceways, which enhances their load-carrying capacity and durability.

Ball bearings are also commonly found in wheel hubs for their simplicity and effectiveness in providing smooth rotation. They offer lower friction and are suitable for high-speed applications. Ball bearings can accommodate radial loads well but are less effective than tapered roller bearings in handling axial loads.

The other types of bearings mentioned in the options—cylindrical roller bearings, bushings, needle bearings, and plain bearings—are generally not suited for wheel hub applications due to their design limitations when it comes to axial load management and overall stability. Thus, the use of tapered roller bearings or ball bearings in wheel hubs ensures optimal performance and longevity in the suspension and steering system.