Bearing cages, also known as bearing separators, are used to hold rolling elements (balls or rollers) in proper orientation so they do not all bunch together. Typically made from stamped metal or molded plastic.

Bearing races, also known as bearing rings, are typically produced using high quality bearing grade chrome steel, which is valued for its superior mechanical properties (tensile strength, hardness, wear resistance).  Precision machining and grinding processes are used to fabricate these components, which must withstand high speeds and loads during operation.