Aircraft Bushing vs Bearing : Which One is Better Option?

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When machinery, devices, and other such assemblies feature moving parts, it is important that there are means to control said movements and a solution in place to deter the effects of friction and rubbing that may result from operations. Whether motion comes in the form of linear sliding or rotary movements, components such as aviation bearings and bushings may be used to accommodate high speeds while mitigating stress. While bushings are technically a form of bearing, they slightly differ in their features and capabilities. As such, we will provide a brief overview of each component so that you can have a better understanding of what may work best for a particular need.

When one is discussing a bearing, they are referring to a type of machine element capable of constraining motion and reducing friction between two or more moving parts. Their name comes from the fact that they can bear the forces of another object, and the way in which they do this often varies based on the particular design of the bearing itself. While many bearings exist on the market, the most common types include plain, rolling-element, jewel, fluid, magnetic, and flexure bearings.

Plain bearings are the most simplistic type available, generally consisting of bearing surfaces where there are no rolling elements. Bushings are a type of independent plain bearing that are inserted into a housing, the housing acting as a bearing surface for rotary applications. Bushings may be solid, split, or clenched in their design, the difference being whether or not there is a cut along the length of the component and/or if there is a clench across the cut to connect parts. As bushings feature a design similar to thin tubes, they are best used for assemblies featuring rotating or sliding shafts, as they can both improve efficiency and mitigate vibration and noise. Oftentimes, one may find bushings within drill jigs, hydraulic motors, and other various machinery.

Meanwhile, other bearing subtypes may differ from bushings for varying reasons, each being suitable for different needs. For example, rolling element bearings feature rollers or balls that are placed between races, and these elements tend to take on certain forces or loads for the benefit of applications. Generally, rolling bearings are used for higher moment loads than plain bearings, and they offer lower friction. Another example is the fluid bearing, that of which has fluids forced between two faces for zero friction at zero speed. These bearings are very optimal for applications where maintenance may be difficult or when very large loads need to be handled with low friction.

Despite the differences between each option, one is not inherently better than another. Instead, one should choose between bearings based on their application and the types of forces that need to be handled. If you are working with an assembly that only requires a simplistic type of bearing surface, a bushing may be most economically efficient and suitable. Meanwhile, more rigorous applications may require other bearings. Once you determine your needs, rely on Civil Aviation Parts for procurement.

Civil Aviation Parts is a premier purchasing platform belonging to the ASAP Semiconductor family of websites, and we present customers access to an unrivaled inventory of items that cater to a diverse set of industry applications. Take the time to explore our website as you see fit, and please note that anything listed on our database can be purchased at any time. To begin, simply fill out and submit an RFQ form as provided on our website with as much information as you can regarding your needs. Once we have received and reviewed your submission, a member of our staff will reach out to you in 15 minutes or less to present a customized solution.