Sliding bearings, also known as plain bearings, are mechanical components that allow relative motion by direct surface contact between a shaft and a bearing surface. Unlike rolling-element bearings, they have no balls or rollers: friction is reduced either by lubrication (oil, grease) or by self-lubricating materials.
Because of their simple geometry and large contact area, sliding bearings can support heavy radial and axial loads, though at lower speeds compared to ball or roller bearings.
Types of Sliding Bearings
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Sleeve (journal) bearings: Cylindrical bushings that support radial loads. Also called journal bearings because they support the journal, the rotating part of a shaft.
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Grooved bearings: Sleeve bearings with internal grooves that distribute lubricant across the surface.
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Flanged bushings: Sleeve bearings with a flange for secure positioning and light axial load support..
Materials
Sliding bearings can be manufactured from a variety of materials, depending on load, speed, and environment:
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Bronze and brass: traditional choices for durability and low friction.
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Steel-backed composites: bushings lined with PTFE or polymers for self-lubrication.
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Engineering plastics: nylon, acetal, or other polymers offering lightweight and corrosion resistance.
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Special alloys or coatings: babbitt, graphite, or high-performance linings for demanding environments.
Lubrication
Lubrication is critical in sliding bearings:
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Grease or oil films reduce direct metal-to-metal contact.
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Grooves or channels may be added to improve lubricant distribution.
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Self-lubricating designs (PTFE linings, oil-impregnated bronze) allow maintenance-free operation.
Sibo: Sliding Bearings for Heavy Equipment
Sibo manufactures steel bsleeve ushings, designed for earthmoving, mining, and other heavy-duty applications where wear resistance and reliability are essential. Every step, from material selection to heat treatment and finishing, is managed with strict quality control to ensure consistent performance.
Contact us for custom realizations and quotations.
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Sources
- Wikipedia – Plain bearing
- Etymonline – Bearing (etymology)
- TPI Bearings – Types of Bearings
- SKF – Technical Information
- Timken – Bearing Solutions
