What are the bearings that maintain the radial positioning of a shaft called?

Radial bearings are specifically designed to support loads that are applied perpendicular to the shaft's axis, which helps in maintaining the radial positioning of the shaft within its housing. These bearings allow for smooth rotation and reduce friction between the shaft and the bearing surface, making them ideal for applications where the primary forces are directed radially.

In contrast, axial bearings primarily handle loads that are parallel to the shaft's axis, supporting forces that push or pull along the shaft. Thrust bearings, a type of axial bearing, specifically accommodate thrust loads, which differ from the radial loads that radial bearings manage. Sliding bearings, while also capable of supporting radial loads, typically function through direct contact and a film of lubricant, differing in design and application from radial bearings. Therefore, the classification and specific function of radial bearings make them the correct choice for maintaining the radial positioning of a shaft.