Benefits of Graphite Plugged Bushings

There are three different types of flanged bronze bushings, including plain bushings, oil or grease grooved flanged bushings, and graphite plugged bushings. We manufacture all three types at Atlas Bronze for use in a variety of industrial applications, but today we’re going to take a closer look at graphite plugged flange bushings.

What Is a Flange Bearing?

Flange bushings (also known as flange bearings) are used whenever support is needed for a shaft that runs perpendicular to the bearing’s mounting surface. With this support, we can avoid problems with high speeds and heavy loads that cause shafts to flex, vibrate, or otherwise move. Dimensions on these bushings can vary; they can be manufactured in a variety of lengths, diameters, and thicknesses.

What Are Graphite Plugged Bronze Bushings?

Graphite plugged bushings are a special type of bushing that is used in applications that need continuous lubrication, but don’t offer easy access for the lubrication to be added manually on a regular basis. This type of bushing is made with graphite impregnated into the small holes in the bushing’s surface. When in use, these bushings release the graphite, creating a film of lubricant to keep machinery running smoothly. 

Why Use Graphite Plugged Bronze Bushings

Graphite plugged bushings are beneficial anytime an application needs ongoing lubrication, but also needs to perform for long periods without maintenance. These bearings are self-lubricating, so additional oil and grease is not needed.

Because graphite plugged bearings self-lubricate, money is saved on maintenance and replacement—both in materials and in labor costs. Additionally, less downtime is needed to add more lubricant or perform other everyday maintenance tasks. Graphite plugged bushings have better wear resistance than other types of bearings. This is because when graphite plugged bushings are in use, there is very minimal friction thanks to the lubricant film they produce. Friction is what wears parts down and causes them to need eventual replacement, so limiting this is the key to durability.

Not only do graphite plugged bushings stand up to a great deal of wear and heavy use, they’re also resistant to corrosion when in damp, humid, or marine environments. In industries where bearings will be exposed to caustic chemicals, graphite plugged bushings from Atlas Bronze are an ideal choice for their chemical resistance.

Another benefit of choosing this type of bushing is that they can be safely used in extreme hot and cold temperatures, indoors and out, and still perform well.

Where to Purchase Graphite Plugged Bronze Bushings

Atlas Bronze manufactures graphite plugged bushings made with bearing bronze, aluminum bronze, and manganese bronze for a wide range of applications and industries. We fabricate bronze bushings to your exact specifications; simply tell us the size you need and we will provide you with a quote.

Contact Atlas Bronze

If you’re uncertain about what type of bronze bushings are best for your application, contact our knowledgeable sales team for help determining your needs. Give us a call at 1-800-478-0887 or email sales@atlasbronze.com to learn more or request a quote.