Glossary

Plain bearings are a type of bearing that rely on the principle of friction.

• Question: What is unique about plain bearings?
  • Answer: They rely on the principle of friction. Unlike rolling bearings, which use balls or rollers as rolling elements to reduce friction, plain bearings consist of a solid sliding partner and a movable sliding element.

• Question: What types of plain bearings are there?
  • Answer: There are various types of plain bearings, including spherical plain bearings and rod ends, depending on the specific requirements of the application.
  • Example article: Category of plain bearings

• Question: In which applications are plain bearings used?
  • Answer: They are often used in applications where low speeds, high loads, or extreme temperatures prevail. Examples include plain bearings in vehicle engines, hydraulic systems, fans, and many other industrial and machinery applications.

• Question: What should be considered during the installation of plain bearings?
  • Answer: The installation of plain bearings is a crucial step to ensure that they function optimally and have a long service life. Here are some important aspects of bearing installation:
    • Clean environment: Installation should take place in a clean environment to prevent dirt, dust, or foreign particles from entering between the sliding surfaces. Contaminants can affect bearing performance and lead to premature wear.
    • Proper fastening: The bearings should be properly fastened to the housing or shaft. Care should be taken to ensure that the fastening is neither too tight nor too loose to ensure a secure and stable connection.
    • Appropriate lubrication: The selection and application of the right lubrication are of great importance. Inadequate lubrication can lead to excessive wear, while excessive lubrication can increase friction and cause the bearings to overheat.
    • Control of clearance specifications: For some types of bearings, clearance play is crucial. The exact specifications for axial and radial clearance should be observed during installation to ensure the desired functionality.