Introduction to Spherical Plain Bearings
Spherical plain bearings, also known as spherical ball bearings or bushings, are essential components used in a wide range of mechanical and industrial applications. Their primary function is to accommodate angular misalignment under heavy load conditions, making them suitable for dynamic and oscillating movements in harsh environments. At BYWB Bearing, we are committed to delivering reliable, high-precision bearing solutions that support the needs of automotive, agricultural, industrial, and aerospace industries.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore:
What are spherical ball bearings?
Types of plain bearings based on materials and structure
Differences between spherical bearings and ball bearings
Common uses of spherical plain bearings
A size chart for reference
What Are Spherical Ball Bearings?
Spherical ball bearings, more accurately called spherical plain bearings, are self-aligning bearings designed to handle radial and axial loads in applications with angular misalignment. Unlike traditional rolling element bearings that use balls or rollers, spherical plain bearings consist of an inner ring with a spherical convex outside surface and an outer ring with a corresponding concave inner surface.
These bearings are designed to transmit loads through the centers of the bearing axes while allowing pivoting between the shaft and housing. This makes them especially useful for applications that involve:
Swivel motion
Oscillating movements
Heavy radial or axial loads
Key Features:
High load capacity
Capability to operate under misalignment
Long service life in challenging environments
At BYWB Bearing, our spherical plain bearings are engineered for precision, longevity, and optimal performance in demanding conditions.
What Are the Different Types of Plain Bearings?
Plain bearings can be classified in multiple ways, most commonly by material and structure.
1. Types by Material:
Steel-on-steel: Both inner and outer rings are made of bearing steel. These are suitable for heavy load applications and require regular lubrication.
PTFE composite: Use a PTFE fabric liner to eliminate the need for lubrication. Ideal for maintenance-free applications.
Bronze-on-steel: Inner ring is bronze, outer is steel. Offers good corrosion resistance and wear properties.
Plastic/polymer bearings: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, used in applications with low speed and moderate loads.
2. Types by Structure:
Radial spherical plain bearings: Designed to accommodate radial loads primarily.
Angular contact spherical plain bearings: Handle a combination of radial and axial loads.
Thrust spherical plain bearings: Specifically designed to carry axial loads.
BYWB Bearing offers a wide range of materials and structures to meet the specific requirements of different industries.
What Is the Difference Between Spherical Bearing and Ball Bearing?
While both types serve the purpose of reducing friction and supporting loads, spherical bearings and ball bearings differ significantly in design, performance, and application.
1. Design
Spherical Plain Bearing: Uses a spherical sliding contact between inner and outer rings. It does not use rolling elements.
Ball Bearing: Contains balls as rolling elements between inner and outer rings.
2. Functionality
Spherical Plain Bearing: Allows for angular misalignment and is ideal for oscillating or pivoting motions.
Ball Bearing: Better suited for applications involving high-speed rotation and lower loads.
3. Load Handling
Spherical Plain Bearing: Excellent for heavy radial and axial loads, particularly in low-speed conditions.
Ball Bearing: Optimized for moderate radial and axial loads at high speeds.
4. Maintenance
Spherical Plain Bearing: Often requires periodic lubrication unless it is maintenance-free type.
Ball Bearing: Usually pre-lubricated and sealed for long-term performance.
5. Application
Spherical Bearings: Found in construction machinery, automotive suspensions, and aircraft control systems.
Ball Bearings: Common in household appliances, electric motors, and high-speed spindles.
What Are Spherical Plain Bearings Used For?
Due to their ability to operate under misalignment and heavy load, spherical plain bearings are used in a variety of demanding environments. Some common applications include:
Automotive:
Suspension systems
Steering components
Shock absorbers
Industrial Machinery:
Hydraulic cylinders
Material handling equipment
Construction machinery
Aerospace:
Landing gear
Flight control systems
Agriculture:
Tractors
Harvesters
Irrigation equipment
Marine and Defense:
Ship rudder systems
Turret rotation
Heavy artillery systems
At BYWB Bearing, we supply spherical plain bearings that deliver consistent performance and durability across all these applications.
Spherical Plain Bearings Size Chart
| Bearing Numberwith Seals – 2RS | d | D | Dimensions B | C | Angle of tilt | | weight | ||||||||||
| ,n.mm | ,n.mm | ,n.mm | ,n.mm | Degrees | kgLbs | ||||||||||||
| GE 6 EGE 8 EGE 1O E | 0.236260.31580.393710 | 0.5512140.6299160.74819 | 0.236260.31580.35439 | 0.157540.196950.23626 | 131512 | – – – | 0.0040.0090.0080.0180.0120.026 | ||||||||||
| GE 15 ESGE 15 ES-2RS | 0.5906150.590615 | 1.0236261.023626 | 0.4724120.472412 | 0.354390.35439 | 88 | — | 0.0320.070.0320.07 | ||||||||||
| GE 17 ESGE 17 ES-2RS | 0.6693170.669317 | 1.1811301.181130 | 0.5512140.551214 | 0.3937100.393710 | 1010 | — | 0.050.110.050.11 | ||||||||||
| GE 2O ESGE 2O ES-2RS | 0.7874200.787420 | 1.378351.37835 | 0.6299160.629916 | 0.4724120.472412 | 99 | 66 | 0.0650.140.0650.14 | ||||||||||
| GE 25 ESGE 25 ES-2RS | 0.9843250.984325 | 1.6535421.653542 | 0.7874200.787420 | 0.6299160.629916 | 77 | 44 | 0.120.260.120.26 | ||||||||||
| GE 3O ESGE 3O ES-2RS | 1.1812301.181230 | 1.8504471.850447 | 0.8661220.866122 | 0.7087180.708718 | 66 | 44 | 0.160.350.160.35 | ||||||||||
| GE 35 ESGE 35 ES-2RS | 1.378351.37835 | 2.1653552.165355 | 0.9843250.984325 | 0.7874200.787420 | 66 | 44 | 0.230.510.230.51 | ||||||||||
| GE 4O ESGE 4O ES-2RS | 1.5748401.574840 | 2.4409622.440962 | 1.1024281.102428 | 0.8661220.866122 | 77 | 44 | 0.320.700.320.70 | ||||||||||
| GE 45 ESGE 45 ES-2RS | 1.7717451.771745 | 2.6772682.677268 | 1.2598321.259832 | 0.9843250.984325 | 77 | 44 | 0.461.010.461.01 | ||||||||||
| GE 5O ESGE 5O ES-2RS | 1.9688501.968850 | 2.9528752.952875 | 1.378351.37835 | 1.1024281.102428 | 66 | 44 | 0.561.230.561.23 | ||||||||||
| GE 6O ESGE 6O ES-2RS | 2.3622602.362260 | 3.5433903.543390 | 1.7323441.732344 | 1.4173361.417336 | 66 | 33 | 1.102.421.102.42 | ||||||||||
| GE 7O ES-2RS | 2.755970 | 4.1339105 | 1.929149 | 1.574840 | 6 | 4 | 1.553.42 | ||||||||||
| GE 😯 ESGE 😯 ES-2RS | 3.1496803.149680 | 4.72451204.7245120 | 2.1654552.165455 | 1.7717451.771745 | 66 | 44 | 2.305.072.305.07 | ||||||||||
| GE 9O ESGE 9O ES-2RS | 3.5433903.543390 | 5.11811305.1181130 | 2.3622602.362260 | 1.9688501.968850 | 55 | 33 | 2.756.062.756.06 | ||||||||||
| GE 1OO ESGE 1OO ES-2RS | 3.93701003.9370100 | 5.90551505.9055150 | 2.7559702.755970 | 2.1564552.156455 | 77 | — | 4.459.814.459.81 | ||||||||||
| GE 11O ESGE 11O ES-2RS | 4.33071104.3307110 | 6.29921606.2992160 | 2.7559702.755970 | 2.1564552.156455 | 66 | — | 4.8210.634.8210.63 | ||||||||||
| GE 12O ESGE 12O ES-2RS | 4.72441204.7244120 | 7.08661807.0866180 | 3.6465853.646585 | 2.7559702.755970 | 66 | — | 8.0517.758.0517.75 | ||||||||||
| GE 14O ESGE 14O ES-2RS | 5.51181405.5118140 | 8.26772108.2677210 | 3.5433903.543390 | 2.7559702.755970 | 77 | — | 11.0224.311.0224.3 | ||||||||||
| GE 16O ESGE 16O ES-2RS | 6.29921606.2992160 | 9.05512309.0551230 | 4.13391054.1339105 | 3.1496803.149680 | 88 | – – | 14.0130.8914.0130.89 | ||||||||||
| GE 18O ES GE 18O ES-2RS | 7.08661807.0866180 | 10.236226010.2362260 | 4.13391054.1339105 | 3.1496803.149680 | 66 | – – | 18.6541.1218.6541.12 | ||||||||||
Here is a general reference size chart for spherical plain bearings. (Note: For detailed specs, please contact BYWB Bearing or visit our product catalog.)
Custom sizes and special material configurations are also available at BYWB Bearing.
Why Choose BYWB Bearing?
1. Quality Assurance
All our spherical plain bearings are manufactured under strict quality control standards, ensuring consistent performance and reliability.
2. Wide Range
Whether you need standard sizes or customized solutions, BYWB Bearing offers a comprehensive catalog suitable for various industries.
3. Competitive Pricing
We offer the best value for money in terms of performance, quality, and longevity.
4. Technical Support
Our expert team provides full technical assistance to help you select the right bearing for your application.
Conclusion
Spherical plain bearings are indispensable components in modern engineering, offering unmatched performance in misaligned and heavy-load environments. From automotive suspensions to industrial machinery and aerospace systems, their versatility and strength make them a preferred choice for designers and engineers.
By understanding the types, applications, and differences from traditional ball bearings, you can make informed decisions when specifying parts for your projects.
BYWB Bearing stands ready to support your needs with premium-quality spherical plain bearings that meet or exceed international standards.
Explore our full product range at bywbbearing.com or contact us for customized solutions.
