SKF
Radial Spherical Plain Bearings
Radial spherical plain bearings (GE series) are the most common type, designed to accommodate radial loads and moderate axial loads in either direction. The convex sphered outer surface of the inner ring slides against a concave sphered inner surface of the outer ring, allowing angular misalignment and oscillating motion. SKF offers maintenance-free and steel-on-steel versions in a wide range of sizes. They are used in pivot points of construction machinery, steering linkages, ship hatch covers, and hydropower gate mechanisms. The bearings are robust, compact, and easy to integrate into housings or mount directly onto pins. SKF provides detailed load ratings, permitted tilt angles, and sliding velocity limits to allow safe, long-life operation.
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Radial and Axial Load Support
Handles combined loads typical of pivot joints.
Large Tilt Angle
Accommodates up to 25° misalignment in some series.
Maintenance-Free Liners
GE..C (composite) and GE..TXE-2LS (PTFE fabric) for no-grease operation.
Tough Steel-on-Steel
GE.. series for extremely high static loads with regular relubrication.
Integral Seals (2LS)
Protects the sliding surface from contamination.
Wide Dimensional Range
Bore sizes from 5 mm to over 300 mm.
Radial Spherical Plain Bearings in Excavator Linkage
The boom, arm, and bucket linkages of an excavator experience high shock loads and constant low-speed oscillation. Steel-on-steel radial spherical plain bearings with hardened inner rings and regular greasing deliver the ruggedness and long life needed for profitable earthmoving operations.
Comparing Maintenance-Free GE..TXE-2LS with Steel-on-Steel GE Bearings
The TXE-2LS bearing uses a PTFE fabric liner bonded to the outer ring, eliminating the need for regreasing. It is preferred in inaccessible positions like ship hatch hinges. The steel-on-steel variant can carry higher dynamic load but must be greased periodically. Selecting between them depends on maintenance access and load spectrum.