Cylindrical or Crowned Cam Follower?
Cam followers, also known as track rollers, cam yoke rollers, or stud-type bearings, are essential components in conveyor systems, automation equipment, and heavy machinery. Two of the most common styles are cylindrical cam followers and crowned cam followers. At MDS of Michigan, we understand that choosing the right type can significantly impact performance, wear life, and system reliability.
Key Difference (Quick Comparison)
- Cylindrical (Flat OD): Maximum contact → higher load, requires precise alignment
- Crowned (Rounded OD): Less contact → better misalignment handling, longer life in imperfect setups
Cylindrical Cam Followers (Flat OD)
Cylindrical cam followers have a flat outer diameter (OD). This design maximizes surface contact between the roller and the track.
Common names:
- Flat cam followers
- Straight OD cam followers
- Track rollers (flat profile)
Best applications:
- Linear motion systems with precise alignment
- Conveyor tracks with minimal misalignment
- Indexing systems and guide rails
Advantages:
- Higher load capacity due to full surface contact
- Better for consistent, straight tracking
- Reduced stress when alignment is perfect
Considerations:
- Sensitive to misalignment
- Edge loading can occur if the track is not perfectly straight
Crowned Cam Followers (Crowned OD)
Crowned cam followers feature a slightly rounded outer diameter, which helps distribute load more evenly when misalignment is present.
Common names:
- Crowned track rollers
- Radius OD cam followers
- Self-aligning cam followers
Best applications:
- Conveyor systems with slight shaft or track misalignment
- Packaging equipment and material handling
- Applications with shaft deflection or frame flex
Advantages:
- Handles misalignment better
- Reduces edge stress and premature wear
- Improves tracking in real-world conditions
Considerations:
- Slightly lower load capacity compared to cylindrical
- Less surface contact area
Which One Should You Choose?
If your system is perfectly aligned and rigid, go with cylindrical cam followers for maximum load capacity.
If there is any misalignment, deflection, or real-world variability, crowned cam followers are typically the better choice to prevent uneven wear and extend bearing life.
In most industrial environments, crowned cam followers are more forgiving, while cylindrical cam followers deliver maximum performance in controlled conditions. Selecting the right style comes down to how precise your system alignment is and how much variability your application sees.
Need help choosing the right cam follower? MDS of Michigan can help you select the correct style, size, and configuration for your application. Contact Our Team or Shop Online to keep your operation moving.
