What is a Metal Bushing?

A metal bushing is the traditional style of bushing. Until recently, all bushings were made of metal. Metal bushings can be composed of aluminum alloys, bronze, bronze alloys, steel, copper alloys, and more. Metal bushings are used as bearings and can withstand high weights and pressures if properly lubricated. The main purpose of metal bushing is to reduce vibrations in machinery. Reducing vibrations makes the machine run more efficiently and quietly, saving unnecessary energy.

How do Metal Bushings Work?

There are typically four types of metal bushings: sleeve bearings, flange bearings, thrust bearings, and metal bushing suspensions. A metal bushing sleeve ensures movement between two moving parts. It can withstand heavy loads and high temperatures. A flange bearing is a self-aligning bushing. This application is used for lighter duty jobs. The thrust bearing rotates along a part in order to provide a gliding motion. Finally, a metal bushing suspension is placed at the joint of two pieces of metal. It supports a larger piece of the machine and needs to be carefully monitored for wear and tear.

What is the Application of Metal Bushing?

Metal bushings can be used on a variety of surfaces and in a wide array of applications. There are metal bushings for wood, metal bushings for steel, metal bushings for PVC, metal bushings for thin metal, and many more. The number one most common use of bushings in in wheels, but other main applications of metal bushings are engine bearings, industrial machinery, commercial and household appliances, automotive parts including combustion engines and crankshafts, and more.