Bearings are one of the most commonly used machine parts because their smooth, rolling motion makes it far easier to transmit a load. By translating the force of a load into the rotational movement of a ball or roller, bearings can help reduce friction between moving parts. As a result, they effectively reduce long term wear and tear while facilitating smooth motion between components on a moment-by-moment basis. As a highly versatile device, there are many different types of bearings to consider, with one of the most common being flange bearings. Named for their flanged design, these bearings have a lip on the exterior of the outer race that differentiates them from their standard counterparts.