Spherical plain bearings

Spherical plain bearings

Spherical plain bearings are a type of spherical sliding bearing, comprising an inner ring with an outer spherical surface and an outer ring with an inner spherical surface. Relying on a spherical sliding fit, they allow for a certain degree of angular oscillation and self-aligning tilt, making them suitable for low-speed oscillating and reciprocating hinge applications. They can simultaneously withstand combined radial and axial loads and offer outstanding impact resistance.

1.  Radial spherical plain bearings (GE series)

Steel-on-steel friction; features lubrication grooves and oil holes, requiring periodic greasing; the suffix ‘-2RS’ denotes double-sided seals for dust protection.

- GE‑E: Single-groove outer ring, without lubrication grooves

- GE‑ES: Single-groove outer ring, with lubrication grooves and oil holes; standard market model

- GEG‑ES: Heavy-duty type, with enlarged ball diameter, specifically for heavy loads

- GEW‑ES: Wide inner ring series

Common models: GE12ES, GE15ES, GE20ES, GE25ES, GE30ES, GE35ES, GE40ES‑2RS.

2.  Self-lubricating radial spherical plain bearings (GE‑T series)

Outer ring lined with PTFE fabric; maintenance-free and requires no lubrication, suitable for applications where lubrication is difficult to apply.

3.  Rod-end spherical plain bearings (Fish-eye joints)

Available in both internal and external thread versions, integrating the spherical plain bearing into the end of a connecting rod.

- SI: Internal thread rod end; SA: External thread rod end

Common models: SI12, SI16, SA20, etc., frequently used in hydraulic cylinder connecting rods and tie-rod mechanisms.

4.  Thrust spherical plain bearings

Primarily designed to withstand axial loads, used in articulated joints subjected to axial forces.

Key Features

- Strong self-aligning capability, capable of compensating for misalignment during assembly and frame deformation

- Face contact design offers high load-bearing capacity and impact resistance; suitable only for low-speed oscillation, not recommended for high-speed rotation

- Steel-on-steel variants require periodic relubrication; self-lubricating variants are maintenance-free but have a slightly lower load-bearing capacity

Applications

Hydraulic cylinders, construction machinery, forging and pressing equipment, automated hinges, agricultural machinery, mining equipment, and vibration-damping articulated mechanisms.