Freewheels and Backstops

Freewheels and Backstops are special rolling bearings with many advantages. They provide precise control of the direction of rotation, prevent undesirable backward movements and ensure the safety of machinery and systems.

Freewheels can only rotate in one direction and are blocked in the opposite direction. These rolling bearings consist of an outer and inner ring assembly separated by a cage arrangement and equipped with integral balls or rollers. When applied in the correct direction of rotation, the inner ring assembly can rotate relative to the outer ring assembly. If unwanted rotation occurs in the other direction, the balls or rollers engage and prevent further rotational movement.
Backstops, also known as overrunning clutches, allow limited rotational movement in one direction and block it in the opposite direction. They are used to prevent unwanted reverse rotation in applications such as elevators or wind energy. Backstops consist of an assembly that includes integral balls or rollers and a spring that pushes the balls or rollers in one direction. When the application is operated in the correct direction of rotation, the inner ring assembly can rotate relative to the outer ring assembly. When rotating in the wrong direction, the balls or rollers push against the spring and block movement.