Bearings - Anti Friction bearings - Needle bearings
 
Video
Like all bearings, they are used to reduce the friction of a rotating surface. Compared to ball bearings and ordinary roller bearings, needle bearings have a greater surface area in contact with the races, so they can support a greater radial load.

A main advantage of needle roller bearings is their ability to use mating surfaces as inner or outer raceways, or both.  They can be used where radial space is limited
 

Types of load
They can carry large radial  loads, and little axial loads.

 

Needle bearing with only outer race Needle bearing with only cage needle bearing with inner and outer race With and without inner race Universal coupling with needle bearings