Phosphor bronze, a unique alloy composed primarily of copper with the addition of phosphorus and other elements, is renowned for its excellent mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance. When combined with graphite, phosphor bronze creates a material that offers superior lubrication and reduced friction, making it ideal for use in bushings and bearings.

Graphite plugged bushings, specifically made from phosphor bronze, provide a robust and long-lasting solution for various industrial applications. The graphite plugs act as solid lubricants, ensuring smooth and efficient operation even in high-temperature or high-pressure environments. This combination of phosphor bronze and graphite offers exceptional wear resistance and durability, extending the lifespan of the bushings significantly.

Cast bronze bearings made from phosphor bronze material exhibit similar characteristics, providing reliable performance and reduced maintenance requirements. The material's corrosion resistance ensures that the bearings can withstand harsh environments and maintain their integrity over time.

In summary, phosphor bronze graphite plugged bushings and cast bronze bearings are excellent choices for industrial applications where durability, wear resistance, and smooth operation are critical. The unique properties of phosphor bronze, combined with the lubrication provided by graphite, make these components ideal for a wide range of mechanical systems and devices.

Phosphor Bronze Graphite Plugged Bushings Cast Bronze Bearings Material, 65x55x40 graffito bearing bushing buje de bronce grafito

C51000 vs. C54400 Phosphor Bronze for Bushings

C51000 and C54400 are both copper-based phosphor bronze alloys valued for their corrosion resistance, strength, and wear properties—making them common choices for bushings. While they share many characteristics, their compositions and properties make them suitable for different applications.

• C51000 is a tin–phosphor bronze known for high ductility, good strength, and fine grain structure. It is versatile, used in springs, electrical connectors, and bushings that require resistance to deformation.

• C54400 is a free-cutting phosphor bronze containing lead and zinc, which significantly improve machinability and bearing performance, making it ideal for precision bushings and heavy-duty bearings.

Chemical Composition

Key differences lie in lead and zinc content, which enhance machinability and wear resistance in C54400, while C51000 remains lead-free with higher copper content for better electrical conductivity.

Mechanical Properties

Both alloys offer good strength and elasticity. C54400 is far easier to machine (machinability rating 80 vs. 20) and excels in producing complex or high-volume bushings. C51000 provides better ductility for applications requiring flexibility.

Thermal & Electrical Properties

Values are broadly similar, with C54400 offering slightly higher thermal conductivity for better heat dissipation in high-load bushings.

Applications in Bushings

Both alloys are well-suited for bushings thanks to their wear resistance, low friction, and corrosion resistance in marine, industrial, or general environments.

• C51000: Ideal for sleeve bushings, clutch discs, and applications needing good ductility and spring-like qualities. Also used in electrical connectors, welding rods, and perforated sheets. Fine grain structure provides toughness and fatigue resistance.

• C54400: Preferred for high-wear bearings, gears, shafts, and thrust washers. Lead improves machinability and bearing properties, making it excellent for precision parts like valve components and cam followers. Zinc and lead make it a free-cutting alloy, well-suited for custom bushings.

Key Differences for Bushing Selection

1. Machinability – C54400 machines far more easily (80 vs. 20 rating).

2. Wear Resistance – C54400 is optimized for demanding bearing/bushing environments; C51000 is more general-purpose.

3. Corrosion & Conductivity – Both resist corrosion, but C51000 offers higher copper content for better electrical performance.

4. Environmental Compliance – C51000 is lead-free, while C54400 contains lead, which may be restricted under RoHS or similar regulations.

5. Form & Availability – C51000 is common in wrought forms; C54400 is popular for cast or machined components.

Selection Tip:

• For heavy-load, high-wear, or precision bushings → choose C54400.

• For lighter-duty, ductility-focused, or lead-free applications → choose C51000.

Plug graphite bearings are primarily used in applications that need continual lubrication in hard to reach areas. Graphite is mechanically forced into the holes/grooves under extreme pressure. A film of lubricant is transferred to the shaft as it begins to turn. These bearings offer continuous lubrication over long periods without maintenance.

Introduction

1.The solid bronze/iron material is ideally suited for highly demanding applications in tough environments. We offer a standard assortment of plain sleeve bushings, flanged bushings and sliding plates in accordance with ISO 4379 and DIN1850.
2.The solid bronze body can be drilled holes and filled solid graphite lubricant, in this way it can be used in oilless environments.
3.Also the solid bronze body can be machined oil grooves and holes, it can get better lubricating after filled with grease.

Features and advantages

1.Insensitive to dirty environment
2.Resistant to shock loads and vibrations at slow speeds
3.Enable operation with a poor shaft surface finish
4.Good resistance to corrosive conditions

Material

Phosphor bronze, also known as phosphorus bronze or tin phosphorus bronze, is an alloy material composed primarily of copper, tin, and phosphorus. It is a type of copper alloy that exhibits excellent mechanical properties and electrical conductivity.

The composition of phosphor bronze typically includes the following elements:

1.Copper (Cu): The main component of phosphor bronze, accounting for the majority of its weight. Copper contributes to the alloy's electrical conductivity, ductility, and corrosion resistance.

2.Tin (Sn): Added to the alloy in a range of 2% to 8% by weight. Tin improves the strength and hardness of the material, as well as its corrosion resistance.

3.Phosphorus (P): Present in a small amount, typically ranging from 0.03% to 0.35% by weight. Phosphorus acts as a deoxidizer and can improve the mechanical properties of the alloy, such as its toughness, elasticity, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance.

In addition to these primary elements, phosphor bronze may also contain trace amounts of other elements like iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn), which can further enhance its properties. The exact composition of phosphor bronze can vary depending on the specific alloy grade and manufacturer.

Due to its excellent combination of mechanical properties, electrical conductivity, and corrosion resistance, phosphor bronze is widely used in various industrial applications. It is commonly employed in the manufacture of mechanical parts, electrical components, and heat exchangers.

Solid Bronze bushings and plates are made completely of tin bronze, CuSn10P, which has very good machine ability. All surfaces of the solid bronze bushings are machined.
Solid iron bushings and plates are made in same way of bronze material, but it is much lower costs if you are not in high performance requirements.

Examples of applications

1.Construction machinery
2.Transport equipment
3.Pulp and papermaking machinery
4.Off-shore equipment

• Cylindrical product: bushings, bearings, bronze bearings
• Flat product: slide plates, guide bushing
• Continuous casting centrifugal casting,Bronze Plugged Graphite Bearings Cast Bronze Bearings Material made to order online.It is based on high strength copper alloy of special techniques. The solid lubricant is inlayed by certain angle, density and special formula, and then is processed exactly. The product is widely applied to casting machine, mining machinery, shipping, steam turbine, Injection machinery and automobile mounding, etc.

Specifications:

https://www.bronzelube.com

Beyond Grease: A Deep Dive into Oilless Bushings & Why Viiplus Leads the Way

Friction is the enemy of efficiency. In countless machines, from massive industrial equipment to intricate automotive components, the constant battle against wear and tear dictates performance, longevity, and maintenance costs. Traditionally, grease and oil have been the go-to solutions, but they come with their own set of challenges: frequent re-lubrication, potential contamination, environmental concerns, and limitations in extreme conditions.

Enter the world of oilless bushings, also known as self-lubricating bearings or sliding bearings. These innovative components offer a smarter way to manage friction, delivering reliable movement without the need for external lubrication.

At Viiplus (www.viiplus.com), we don't just supply these components; we engineer solutions. Leveraging deep expertise in metallurgy and tribology (the science of friction, wear, and lubrication), we've become a leading name in sliding bearing technology. But what exactly are oilless bushings, and why should they be on your radar? Let's dive deeper.

What Exactly Are Oilless Bushings? The Science of Self-Lubrication

Unlike traditional ball or roller bearings that rely on rolling elements and require constant lubrication films, oilless bushings operate on the principle of sliding motion. Their "magic" lies in their material composition and structure, designed to provide their own lubrication at the bearing surface. This can be achieved through several key technologies:

1. Solid Lubricants Embedded: Materials like graphite, MoS₂, or PTFE are embedded directly into the metallic matrix (often bronze) of the bushing. As the shaft rotates or slides, a minuscule amount of this solid lubricant is transferred to the mating surface, creating a low-friction film.

2. Porous Metal Structures: Sintered bronze or iron materials are created with microscopic pores. These pores are vacuum-impregnated with oil during manufacturing. In operation, slight heating causes the oil to expand and seep onto the bearing surface, providing lubrication. When it cools, the capillary action draws the oil back in, creating a closed-loop system.

3. Layered Composites: These often feature a strong backing (like steel), an intermediate sintered layer (like bronze), and a low-friction overlay (often PTFE-based). The PTFE layer provides the primary sliding surface, offering extremely low friction.

Contrasting Logic: Oilless vs. Traditionally Lubricated Bearings

The Tangible Benefits: Why Make the Switch?

Choosing oilless bushings isn't just about eliminating grease guns. It's about unlocking significant operational advantages:

• Drastically Reduced Maintenance: This is the most obvious benefit. No re-greasing means less labor, less scheduled downtime, and simplified maintenance protocols. Imagine the savings across a factory floor!

• Enhanced Reliability: Lubricant starvation is a major cause of bearing failure. Self-lubricating bearings ensure consistent lubrication, leading to predictable performance and longer service life, especially in hard-to-reach locations.

• Superior Performance in Harsh Conditions: Oilless bushings excel where traditional lubricants fail:

  • High Temperatures: Certain types can operate at temperatures far exceeding the limits of conventional greases.

  • Low Temperatures: No grease means no stiffening or freezing issues.

  • Contaminated Environments: The absence of sticky grease reduces the ingress of dirt, dust, and debris.

  • Vacuum or Underwater: Ideal for applications where liquid lubricants are impractical or impossible.

• Cost Savings (Total Cost of Ownership): While the initial purchase price might sometimes be higher, the TCO is often significantly lower due to savings on lubricants, labor, downtime, and potential component failure replacement.

• Environmental Friendliness: Eliminating oil and grease leakage prevents contamination of products, machinery, and the environment. Crucial for industries like food processing, pharmaceuticals, and textiles.

• Compact & Simplified Designs: Without the need for lubrication systems (nipples, lines, reservoirs), machine designs can be more compact and streamlined.

Exploring Viiplus's Portfolio: Finding Your Solution

Viiplus offers a comprehensive range of self-lubricating bearings designed to meet diverse application needs. Understanding the different series helps in selection:

• JDB Series (Graphite Plugged Bronze): Excellent for high-load, low-speed applications, intermittent motion, and high temperatures. The graphite plugs provide continuous solid lubrication. Ideal for heavy machinery, molds, and hydraulic components.

• SF Series (PTFE-Based Composite): Typically metal-backed (SF-1: steel, SF-2: steel/bronze) with a PTFE-based lining. Offers very low friction, good wear resistance, and suitability for dry running or marginal lubrication. Common in automotive, office equipment, and hydraulics.

• JF Series (Bimetal Bushings): Combines a steel backing with a sintered bronze or lead-bronze lining. Good load capacity and fatigue strength. Often used with grease or oil but can operate marginally lubricated. Found in engines, chassis parts, and agricultural machinery.

• FB Series (Wrapped Bronze): Often made from bronze strip, sometimes with lubrication pockets or through-holes. A cost-effective solution for medium loads and speeds, typically requiring initial greasing but offering extended re-lubrication intervals.

Quick Comparison Chart (General Guide):

(Note: This is a simplified guide. Always consult specific product data sheets or Viiplus experts for precise application requirements.)

Uncertain which material or type suits your project? Our Bushing Material Selection Guide is designed to help, or Contact Us for a Free Quote and Expert Advice.

Why Partner with Viiplus? Expertise Meets Quality

Choosing the right supplier is as critical as choosing the right bushing. Here’s why companies worldwide trust Viiplus:

• Deep Expertise: Our foundation in metallurgy and tribology, coupled with a talented R&D team, means we understand the science behind reliable movement. We don't just sell; we solve friction challenges.

• Uncompromising Quality: We employ advanced manufacturing techniques (including sand casting, centrifugal casting, metal casting, investment casting) and a rigorous quality management system, ensuring every bushing meets the highest standards.

• Comprehensive Range: From standard metric sizes in JDB, SF, JF, and FB series to custom solutions including cylindrical, flange, double flange bushings, wear plates, and guide rails – we have the portfolio to match your needs.

• Global Reach, Seamless Logistics: Based in China, we ship sliding bearings worldwide. Our professional team handles customs clearance efficiently, ensuring smooth, timely delivery with all necessary documentation.

• Customer-Centric Approach: We believe in ethical practices and building trust. We offer flexible production (single units to large series), competitive pricing, and online support.