Thrust spherical plain bearings have the following features:
Construction features: Thrust spherical plain bearings consist of a convex spherical surface and a corresponding concave spherical surface. The convex surface is located on the bearing shell and the concave surface is located on the bearing seat. This design allows the bearing to withstand the main axial load, as well as combined loads (radial and axial loads), but the radial load should not exceed 50% of the axial load.
Application scenarios: Thrust spherical plain bearings are suitable for occasions where axial loads need to be carried, such as axial support in rotating machinery. When the radial load is large, it is usually necessary to combine it with a radial bearing to ensure the stable operation of the equipment.Material and design: Manufacturers such as SKF provide maintenance-free thrust spherical plain bearings with a steel/polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) friction sliding contact surface combination. This design is standard in the GX series, and other designs and series can be customized according to requirements.
Performance features: Thrust spherical plain bearings can be separated, allowing the bearing shell and the bearing seat to be installed separately, which is convenient for maintenance and replacement. In addition, these bearings are able to operate over a wide temperature range, and the specific temperature limit depends on the specific design and material.
SKF Thrust Spherical Plain Bearings are high-performance, self-aligning components engineered to manage heavy axial (thrust) loads while compensating for shaft misalignment and angular deviations. These bearings feature a spherical sliding surface that allows articulation under load, making them ideal for applications where axial forces dominate and alignment precision is challenging. Designed for durability and versatility, SKF,s thrust spherical plain bearings are widely used in industries such as mining, construction, energy, and heavy machinery, delivering reliability in harsh environments and dynamic operating conditions.
Key Features & Benefits
- Exceptional Axial Load Capacity
Heavy-Duty Performance: Engineered to withstand axial loads up to 2,500 kN (varies by series), making them ideal for applications like hydraulic presses, crane hooks, and screw conveyors.
Combined Load Tolerance: Accommodates moderate radial loads alongside primary axial forces, reducing the need for additional radial bearings.
- Self-Aligning Capability
Misalignment Compensation: Allows ±2–5° of angular misalignment, mitigating stress caused by shaft deflection, thermal expansion, or installation inaccuracies.
Spherical Sliding Surfaces: Ensure smooth articulation under load, minimizing friction and wear.
- Robust Construction & Durability
Premium Materials:
Hardened Chromium Steel (SAE 52100): Offers superior wear resistance for industrial applications.
Stainless Steel (AISI 316/440C): Corrosion-resistant variants for marine, chemical, or food-processing environments.
PTFE-Lined Options: Self-lubricating designs with low friction for maintenance-free operation.
Surface Treatments: SKF NoWear® coatings reduce wear by up to 60% in abrasive or contaminated environments.
- Lubrication & Sealing Flexibility
Integrated Lubrication Grooves: Facilitate grease replenishment for high-load or high-temperature applications.
Advanced Sealing Solutions: Triple-lip seals (SKF LLU/LLB series) provide IP67 protection against dust, water, and debris.
- Versatile Configurations
Housing Compatibility: Available in flange, threaded, or cylindrical housings for seamless integration into existing systems.
Custom Designs: Tailored bore sizes (20 mm to 500 mm), coatings, and materials for specialized operational needs.
SKF Thrust Spherical Plain Bearings are the ultimate solution for managing heavy axial loads in misalignment-prone environments. Their self-aligning design, robust construction, and adaptability make them indispensable across industries such as construction, energy, marine, and automotive. By integrating SKF’s thrust spherical plain bearings, businesses achieve enhanced operational reliability, reduced maintenance costs, and extended equipment lifespan—even under the most demanding conditions. Backed by SKF’s legacy of innovation and global technical support, these bearings deliver unmatched performance, durability, and sustainability, ensuring a competitive edge in today’s industrial landscape.
