What is a Bush/Bushing?

A Bush or Bushing is a fixed or removable cylindrical tube or sleeve that provides an interface between two parts. It is used to constrain, guide, or reduce friction and is effectively one classification of the overall category of bearings and may also be referred to as a Sleeve Bearing or Plain Bearing. Common designs of Bushes include solid (sleeve and flanged), split, and clenched bushings.

How does a Bush/Bushing work?

Bushings operate with a sliding motion between the moving surfaces, typically relying on soft metal or plastic and an oil film. This combination supports the rotating shaft on the hardened shaft journal. They are usually pushed in when fitting.

What does a Bush/Bushing look like?

sleeve, split, or clenched Bushes and Bushings are a “sleeve” of material with an inner diameter (ID), outer diameter (OD), and length. A solid Sleeved Bushing is solid all the way around whereas a Split Bushing has a cut along its length. A Clenched Bushing is similar to a Split Bushing, but with a clench (or clinch) across the cut connecting the parts.