A bronze bush, also known as a bronze bushing or bronze bearing, is a type of plain bearing made from bronze, an alloy typically composed of copper and tin, and sometimes other elements like lead, aluminum, or phosphorus. It is used to provide a low-friction interface between two moving parts, typically a rotating or sliding shaft and its housing.

What a Bronze Bush Does

Bronze bushes support and guide moving parts while reducing friction and wear. Unlike rolling-element bearings (like ball or roller bearings), they operate through surface contact and are ideal for applications with heavy loads and low to moderate speeds. They can handle radial loads, axial loads, or both depending on the design and mounting.

Key Features

• Material: Usually made from SAE 660 (C93200) bronze, phosphor bronze, or oil-impregnated sintered bronze.
• Load Capacity: High—suitable for applications where shock and heavy load are present.
• Lubrication: Some types are self-lubricating, while others require grease or oil.
• Durability: Excellent wear and corrosion resistance, even in dirty or harsh environments.
• Maintenance: Low—especially in the case of self-lubricating versions.

Common Types of Bronze Bushings

1. Solid Bronze Bushings
    Machined from solid bronze stock. Used in heavy-duty industrial applications where strength and longevity are critical.
2. Sintered (Oil-Impregnated) Bronze Bushings
    Made from powdered bronze compressed and heated (sintered), then impregnated with lubricant. Ideal for maintenance-free or hard-to-reach areas.
3. Flanged Bronze Bushings
    Include a flange for positioning and retaining the bushing in the housing, and for handling axial loads.
4. Wrapped Bronze Bushings
    Created by wrapping bronze strip into a cylindrical shape, often with grooves or holes for better lubrication.

Applications

• Construction and agricultural machinery
• Automotive components such as suspension and steering systems
• Industrial motors and gearboxes
• Pumps and compressors
• Elevators and cranes
• Marine and offshore equipment

Benefits of Bronze Bushings

• Handles high loads with good resistance to wear
• Excellent performance in dirty or abrasive environments
• Longer life in applications where lubrication is limited or intermittent
• Good shock and vibration absorption
• Resistant to corrosion