Angular contact bearings have one ring shoulder partially or totally removed. This allows a larger ball complement than found in comparable deep groove bearings, hence a greater load capacity. Speed capability is also greater.

Angular contact bearings are assembled to a contact angle by varying the radial clearance. Instrument angular contact bearings have nominal contact angles of either 10° or 15°.

Separable and nonseparable types are available. In a separable bearing (B type), the cage holds the balls in place so that the outer ring assembly (with cage and balls) can be separated from the inner ring.

Separable bearings are useful where bearings must be installed in blind holes or where press fits are required, both on the shaft and in the housing. The separable feature also permits dynamic balancing of a rotating component with inner ring mounted in place, apart from the outer ring and housing.

Angular contact bearings support thrust loads or combinations of radial and thrust loading. They cannot accept radial loads only — a thrust load of sufficient magnitude must be present. An individual angular contact bearing can be thrust-loaded in only one direction; this load may be a working load or a preload.