What component in machinery reduces friction between moving parts?

Bearings are designed specifically to reduce friction between moving parts in machinery. They achieve this by providing a smooth surface for rotating or sliding elements, which minimizes the contact area between those parts. By enabling smoother motion, bearings not only decrease wear and tear on components but also improve their performance and lifespan. They come in various types, such as ball bearings and roller bearings, each suited for different applications and load conditions.

Shafts, while essential in transmitting power and rotating motion, do not inherently reduce friction; instead, they may experience friction depending on their connections and bearings. Gears are used to transmit motion and change the direction of force but do not function to reduce friction between parts in the same way bearings do. Pumps are mechanisms designed to move fluids and may incorporate bearings as part of their construction, but they are not primarily focused on reducing friction. Thus, the role of bearings as friction-reducing components is critical in maintaining the efficiency and longevity of machinery.