A flanged bushing is a cylindrical bearing with a projecting collar on one end. The flange prevents axial movement and simplifies assembly, making this type of bushing essential in many mechanical systems.
The collar can be produced in different ways: it may be machined directly from a solid piece, formed by deforming the edge of a tube, or molded in one step when using plastics. The method depends on the material and the required performance.
If you need a manufacturer of steel flanged bushings, contact us for a quotation or to request our complete catalog.
Features
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Supports both radial and axial loads
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Positive axial positioning thanks to the flange
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Even force distribution and reduced wear
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Quick and secure installation
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Available in different tolerances and finishes
Materials
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Steel (case-hardened or alloyed): high strength, wear resistance, heavy loads
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Bronze and brass: good sliding and thermal conductivity
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Plastic and polymer composites: lightweight, corrosion-resistant, often self-lubricating
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Advanced composites: combine high load capacity with reduced maintenance
Size Chart and Dimensions
Flanged bushings are produced in both metric and inch sizes. Common parameters include:
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Inner diameter (d): matches the shaft size
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Outer diameter (D): corresponds to the housing bore
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Length (L): bearing surface length
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Flange thickness (t) and diameter (Df): define axial support capacity
Manufacturers usually provide detailed size charts, allowing engineers to select the right bushing based on shaft diameter, load, and application.
Applications
Flanged bushings are widely used in:
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Construction and earthmoving machinery (booms, hinges, bucket joints)
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Agricultural equipment (hydraulic cylinders, lifting arms, steering)
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Industrial machines (conveyors, presses, handling systems)
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Railway applications (heavy joints and couplings)
Alternative Terms and Usage
Flanged bushings are often referred to by different names, depending on the industry, catalog, or even the shape of the part. These terms usually highlight the flange feature, its appearance, or the way the component is used.
Headed Bush
In tooling and jig design, a flanged bushing is commonly called a headed bush. The term emphasizes the flange as the “head” of the part, which provides a positive stop against the housing or plate.
Top Hat Bushing
Some flanged bushings are called top hat bushings because of their shape. The sleeve looks like the crown of a hat and the flange like the brim. As shown in the image, when inverted the resemblance to a top hat is clear.
Shoulder Bushing
The flange is often called a shoulder, leading to the term shoulder bushing. This name is widely used in mechanical and automotive contexts to describe flanged bushings that prevent axial movement while supporting radial loads.
Collared Bushing
In some supplier catalogs, the flange is referred to as a collar, giving rise to the term collared bushing. Functionally, it is identical to a flanged bushing; the difference lies only in terminology.
Bush, Bushing, Bearing, or Sleeve?
In English, the words bush, bushing, bearing, and sleeve are often used interchangeably in this context. For example, the same component may be listed as a flanged bush, flanged bushing, or flanged sleeve bearing.
For more on the use of the words bushing, bearing, and sleeve, see our dedicated article Bushing, Bearing, and Sleeve.
Sibo Bushings
If you need custom flanged bushings in steel, contact us for a quotation. For the full range of bushings available, request the Sibo catalog using the form below.
