Abstract: Axially spaced radial bearing units (30, 50) for a shaft assembly are pre-loaded by hydraulic pressure. Each of the bearing units is mounted to an axially displaceable seat (40, 60). The pre-loading pressure between the two bearing units (30, 50) is maintained at a constant pre-loading pressure by a hydraulic pressure which is exerted in chambers (44, 64) partially defined by the seats. A pressure accumulator (70) supplies pressure to the chambers (44, 64) so that a constant pre-loading pressure may be applied to the radial bearing units (30, 50) while allowing for axial displacement of the bearing units and the shaft (12).

Abstract: A hydraulic axial bearing for a radially-mounted axle (1), which has a flange (1a) incorporating an outer, substantially axial sealing gap (7) formed between the flange and a sealing ring (3), and an inner, substantially radial sealing gap (9), formed between the axle and a sealing ring (5a) confined in the bearing housing (5). A hydraulic pressure medium is supplied, through the line (D) to the cavity (11) formed between the sealing gaps, whereupon the medium is evacuated through the gaps, under a considerable drop in pressure, to absorb axial loadings applied to the axle. The outer axial gap can be controlled by an additional pressure medium that is supplied to the pressure chamber (5b) via the line (D). This permits the pressure in the cavity (11) and consequently the axial loadings absorbed, to be regulated.