Plain bearings

For applications with multi-directional, self-aligning movements

Explore the SKF plain bearings, rod ends and bushings that meet your application’s needs, as well as delivering high reliability, long service life and minimal maintenance. Plain bearings are used in many industries and across many applications where there is a need to cost-efficiently and reliably meet the challenge of oscillating movements and possible misalignment. From mining and construction equipment, farm and forestry machinery, all the way to forklift trucks and solar power equipment. ​

Product types

Product types

Spherical plain bearings and rod ends

Available in a wide assortment of designs, dimension series and sizes, either as separate standardized, ready-to-mount bearings, or mounted in rod end housings used to join mechanical components.
Product types (2)

Bushings, thrust washers and strips

Important to the performance of plain bearings in particular applications, consider the selection of the available sliding materials and bushing types, and their different sliding contact surface combinations and operating characteristics.

Why choose plain bearings?​

Suitable for heavy static and dynamic loads​
Multi-directional movements​
Accommodate misalignment
Virtually eliminate edge stresses and excessive stressing of adjacent components​
Accommodate deformation of surrounding components in operation​
Accommodate wide manufacturing tolerances and the use of cost-effective, welded assemblies​

Why SKF plain bearings?​

Wide variety of product options for different application conditions​
Lubricated for life options available for decreased grease use​
High corrosion resistance versions available​
Broad range of sizes available​
Assortment includes spherical plain bearings, as well as rod ends, bushings, thrust washers, strips and pivot joints​

In focus

SKF Explorer steel/steel plain bearings

SKF Explorer steel/steel plain bearings are virtually maintenance-free and extremely robust – the optimal combination for reducing costs and improving reliability.

SKF Explorer steelsteel plain bearings

Discover the complete SKF portfolio