Often configured with multiple, opposed, preloaded units, single row angular contact ball bearings are designed to accommodate axial loads acting in one direction. Under radial loads, an induced force acting in the axial direction is produced that must be counteracted. Consequently, the single bearings are normally adjusted against a second bearing or more. Standard angular contact ball bearings are available with axial clearances, preloads, and even in a high precision assortment.

In this configuration, bearing rings have upper and lower shoulders and can not be separated.  The high load-carrying capacity comes from a large number of balls enabled by the lower shoulder of the bearing.