What type of bearings is mainly used for axial load support in propulsion systems?

Main thrust bearings are specifically designed to support axial loads in propulsion systems. These bearings are critical in applications such as marine propulsion where they must withstand the thrust generated by propellers and turbines. Axial loads refer to forces that act along the axis of the shaft, and thrust bearings are uniquely equipped to handle these types of loads due to their design, which allows them to maintain alignment and effectively distribute the force over a larger surface area. This capability prevents excessive wear and supports the stability of the thrust mechanism within the propulsion system.

In contrast, stern tube bearings, line bearings, and strut bearings serve different purposes. Stern tube bearings support the shaft as it passes through the ship's hull, primarily accommodating radial loads, while line bearings support the shaft along its length and also focus more on radial loads. Strut bearings are typically used to support hull-mounted components. Therefore, while these other types of bearings play important roles in the overall system, they do not provide the specialized axial support that main thrust bearings do.