Sleeve Bearing

Also known as a brass bushing sleeve, these bearings are used for movement between two parts whose purpose is to limit friction and any potential vibration. An important feature is that they can withstand high temperatures and are self-lubricating.

Flange Bearing

The purpose of flanged brass bushings is to allow rotation within a contained area. One is bolted inside a housing unit while the other is not attached. They are best used for lighter-duty jobs.

Thrust Bearing

Thrust bearings are also called thrust washers and they are for rotation needs. They rotate along moving parts.

What is different between brass or bronze?

First, the similarities between brass bearings and bronze bearings are that they are both metal alloys, meaning that they are made out of two or more metals. Brass bushing material consists of zinc and copper and bronze is composed of tin and copper.

Brass is also a lighter yellow in color while Bronze portrays warmer, reddish tones. Bronze bushings are very durable and will last through heavy impact and corrosion. However, it is important to note that these bronze bushings require an external lubricant.

What are brass bushings used for?

Brass makes an excellent metal for bushings due to its flexibility and moldability while still remaining a hard metal. Furthermore, it does not bind to steel. Brass bushing varies by size as they can fit thick walls, thin walls, flanged, sintered, and cylindrical. Brass Bushings can be used for a variety of purposes including Water Pump Bushings, Electric Motors, and Slide Bearings.

Water Pump Bushings

Most car engines have a water pump with a brass bushing in the main shaft. It is useful due to the brasses’ anti-rust and anti-friction properties.

Electric Motors

Brass can also be used in electric motors on both sides of the armature. Its purpose is to support the motor shaft. It’s perfect for the engine because the brass is cheap, it is anti-friction, and the metal is very easy to produce.

Slide Bearings

Some machine shafts slide rather than rotate. Brass bushing is used in these types of mechanisms.

A few other examples of where you can find bushings are in fishing reels, stage lights, printer rollers, ATMs, escalators, and surveillance systems.