In summary, the key difference between angular contact and radial contact bearings lies in their ability to support combined radial and axial loads (angular contact bearings) versus primarily supporting radial loads (radial contact bearings). Each type of bearing is tailored to meet specific operational requirements and environmental conditions in diverse industrial applications.

   - Spherical Roller Bearings: Spherical roller bearings are designed to accommodate heavy radial and axial loads, as well as misalignment and shaft deflection. They are commonly used in applications where high load capacity and the ability to compensate for misalignment are essential, such as in heavy machinery, mining equipment, and industrial gearboxes.

The angle of contact in angular contact ball bearings is carefully engineered to ensure that the bearing can effectively distribute and support the applied loads. By adjusting the angle of contact, the bearing can be optimized to handle varying degrees of radial and axial loads, providing versatility and adaptability for different applications.