Bushes
Bushes (bushings) are cylindrical sleeves that support, guide or protect a rotating or sliding shaft, and are replaced instead of the more expensive housing when they wear. We supply machined bushes in bronze, steel, cast iron and engineering plastics to your size and fit.
What it is
A bush is turned and bored to precise outside and inside diameters. The outside is usually a press fit in the housing, while the bore gives the running clearance for the shaft. Oil grooves, flanges, holes and chamfers are added as needed.
Material depends on load, speed and lubrication: phosphor or leaded bronze for general bearing duty, hardened steel for high loads and pivots, and plastics such as nylon or PTFE-based materials for dry or corrosive conditions.
Typical applications
- Pivot and hinge bushes
- Plain bearings for shafts
- Guide bushes for jigs and slides
- Wear sleeves in pumps and machinery
- Automotive and agricultural linkages
Materials & grades
- Phosphor bronze and leaded bronze
- Gunmetal
- Hardened steel (EN8, EN31)
- Cast iron
- Nylon, POM, PTFE and filled PTFE
Points to consider
- Press fitting reduces the bore slightly; state whether the bore size is before or after fitting.
- Match bush material to shaft hardness, load and lubrication.
- Oil grooves and holes help lubrication in greased bushes.
- For corrosive or dry-running conditions, plastic or bronze bushes avoid seizing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best material for bushes?
Phosphor bronze is the most common general-purpose choice. Hardened steel suits high-load pivots, and plastics suit dry-running or corrosive environments.
What is the difference between a bush and a bearing?
A bush is a plain sliding sleeve with no rolling elements. It is cheaper and compact, while rolling bearings suit higher speeds with lower friction.
Can you copy an existing worn bush?
Yes. Send the worn bush with the shaft and housing sizes; we confirm dimensions and machine a replacement with the correct fits.