Graphite-Plugged vs Plain Bronze Bushings: How to Choose

Two families, one goal

Both plain bronze and graphite-plugged bronze bushings support shafts and pins. The difference is lubrication strategy.

Choose graphite-plugged when

• The bearing is hard to reach for relubrication
• The machine runs dirty or dusty (crushers, conveyors)
• Start/stop frequency is high and dry-running occurs
• You want zero lubrication maintenance

Choose plain bronze when

• A reliable oiling regime already exists
• High-speed, fully-lubricated service (better heat removal)
• Cost per part matters more than maintenance cost

The trade-off

Graphite plugs reduce the load-bearing area slightly and are best below ~30 MPa surface pressure in dry running. Above that, use plain bronze with proper lubrication, or specify a larger bearing.

Tell us the load, speed and duty — we will recommend the right family and the right alloy.