Understanding a Spherical Plain Bearing and Its Uses in Industrial Applications

 

Spherical Plain Bearing

Bearings are crucial in the smooth and effective running of machines, which ultimately results in higher productivity. They are best used to handle the linear or rotational movement of the components by using them, which can reduce stress on the components and improve performance. Given this fact, these revolutionary components are subject to constant improvements based on the harsh conditions they undergo in heavy and sensitive applications.

The constant improvements in designs have resulted in the development of different types of bearings. Among them, a spherical plain bearing is considered to be the most sophisticated type of bearing due to its multi-directional movements and self-aligning features. The standardized series, sizes, and dimensions make them easily interchangeable and ready-to-mount components. 

This type of bearing is known for its sphered raceways, with the inner raceway having a “convex outside diameter” and the outer raceway a “concave inside surface”. 

Different Spherical Plain Bearing Designs and their Uses

Most industrial sectors use spherical bearings for they provide a “total design economy”. Moreover, they are easily interchangeable due to the cutting-edge technology used in them. A spherical plain bearing unit is built using toughened carbon chromium steel and is treated with “Molybdenum Disulfide and phosphate” to support force. With grooves and holes on the raceways, it enables easy re-lubrication at intervals. 

The lubrication time is reduced due to free grease flow by the multi-groove system. The improved designs of a spherical plain bearing, with PTFE-lined rings, are used for certain applications under harsh conditions for self-lubrication at regular intervals. 

Further developments in the designs are the bearing having a firm seal to avoid corrosion during heavy-duty applications. The capped category is the other popular one that provides greater efficiency at reduced force. The angular contact spherical plain bearings are an example in this category. 

Application of Spherical Plain Bearings in Applications

If you are looking for a bearing with distinguished features such as high dependability, reduced maintenance, and extended service life, a spherical plain bearing is the most preferred one in applications in various industrial sectors. It is used in areas in like:

  

• Forklift trucks

• Steel manufacturing industry

• Rolling mill equipment

• Stabilizers

• Hydraulic cylinders

• Earth-moving machines

• Mineral processing equipment 

Some well-proven reasons for the use of simple plain bearings in industrial applications are:

You can use it as a bearing pillow block, in which the spherical plain bearing unit is mounted on the shaft to handle applications in a clean environment. The added advantage of a multi-groove lubrication system further eases the use by augmenting the lubricant reservoir through the transport of lubricant to the loaded area. The bearing’s life increases at no extra cost. 

You can have any rigors of the conditions managed using a spherical plain bearing in a range of applications.