Incomparable Range of Spherical Plain Bearing and their Uses in Industry

Bearings play a major role in the effective running of machines, which ultimately leads to improved productivity. Used between two parts, bearings facilitate rotational or linear movement, thereby minimizing friction and improving performance. Given this fact, these mechanical components are subject to constant improvements based on the demand and harsh conditions the bearings undergo in heavy applications.

Spherical Plain Bearing | Image Resource : shutterstock.com

Among the different types of bearings, the spherical plain bearing is regarded as the most sophisticated type of bearing due to its multi-directional movements and self-aligning features. These bearings are standardized and are available as a ready-to-mount component. They are designed to have both inner and outer rings sphered, with the former “convex outside diameter” and latter “concave inside surface”.

Various Designs of Spherical Plain Bearing for Multiple Applications

Unlike any other bearing, the spherical plain bearings are regarded for the total design economy. They are state-of-the-art components that are interchangeable and come in a range of designs, series, sizes and dimensions. Moreover, the spherical plain bearing unit is made of hardened carbon chromium steel, which has undergone “Molybdenum Disulfide and phosphate” treatment to support force. With the raceways having grooves and holes, it enables easy re-lubrication at intervals.

The multi-groove system allows free grease flow, which helps reduce the lubrication time. Some applications in extreme conditions have led to the developments of in the designs of the spherical plain bearing, where you can find PTFE lined rings for self-lubrication at regular intervals during harsh conditions. The bearing, with a firm seal for heavy-duty applications helps avoid corrosion. Such capped bearings can be found in angular contact ball bearings for improved efficiency at minimal force in certain applications.

Multi-Purpose Performance of Spherical Plain Bearing

Spherical bearings, with their unique features such as high reliability, reduced maintenance and long life, are the most preferred components in a wide range of applications in industrial sectors. You can find them used majorly in: 

• Steel manufacturing industry
• Hydraulic cylinders
• Rolling mill equipment
• Fork lift trucks
• Stabilizers
• Fork-lift trucks
• Mineral processing equipment
• Earth-moving machines

The use of spherical plain bearing in various applications are well-proven for the following reasons:

When it comes to supporting misalignment, the unique design of the bearing, with bearing pillow block can help handle misalignment at different degree while tilting and oscillating. The spherical bearings come with multi-groove lubrication system to help transport lubricant to the loaded area and thus augment the lubricant reservoir in the bearing. This gives extended service lives at no extra cost.

By using angular contact spherical plain bearing in vehicles of twin-axle support helps even distribution of loads, without causing any damage to the bearing. Thus, spherical plain bearing is widely used in industry so that it can withstand all the rigors of the conditions.