This is a simple question that is worth repeating. Sleeve bearings are the most common type of plane bearing, and are suitable for use in a range of applications. Sleeve bearings are designed to carry linear, oscillating or rotating shafts, and function via a sliding action. Plain and sleeve bearings are often compact and lightweight, and generally offer good value. To compare various bearing configurations, see our recent post on common bearing types. Where are sleeve bearings found?
Common sleeve bearing applications include:
- Auto industry - Transmission shafts, links, pins and crank components
- Ag Industry – Linkage assemblies on attachments, steering gear
- Off-road Industry – Clevis bearings for hydraulic cylinder pins
- Marine industry - Steady bearings for drive shafts
- Food industry - Processing and packaging applications where lift and tilt devices are used
Plain and sleeve bearings are also referred to as bushings or journal bearings. For assistance in choosing the right sleeve, see our Rulon sleeve bearing selector chart.
Interested in learning more bearing shapes, as well as information about bearing uses, materials, failure modes, and more? Check out our Bearing 101 article.