Steel Plain Bearing
Steel Plain Bearing
Self-lubricating bronze bearings are engineered for applications where external lubrication is impractical. Solid lubricants are compressed and molded directly into the bearing to guarantee a maintenance-free product. No additional lubrication is necessary.
20CrMnTi or C45 Steel Plain Bearing
Both 20CrMnTi and C45 steels are commonly used in the manufacture of plain bearings, but they have distinct properties that make them suitable for different applications.
20CrMnTi Steel
Chemical Composition:
- Carbon (C): 0.17-0.23%
- Chromium (Cr): 1.00-1.30%
- Manganese (Mn): 1.00-1.30%
- Titanium (Ti): 0.04-0.10%
20CrMnTi is an alloy steel enriched with chromium, manganese, and titanium, making it ideal for high-performance applications. Its key characteristics include:
- Heat Treatment: This steel can be heat treated to achieve high hardness, typically ranging from 60 to 66 HRC after quenching and tempering. It can be hot worked at temperatures between 205°C and 538°C and cold worked in annealed or normalized conditions.
- Mechanical Properties: When annealed, 20CrMnTi typically exhibits a tensile strength of about 520 MPa and a yield strength of at least 415 MPa. It also has good thermal conductivity (46.6 W/mK) and a Poisson’s ratio of 0.27-0.30.
- Applications: Due to its high strength and wear resistance, 20CrMnTi is widely used in the production of gears, valve bodies, and various components in machinery, such as electric locomotives and mining equipment.
- Elongation After Fracture: Typically ranges between 10-20%.
C45 Steel
C45 is a medium carbon steel known for its good machinability and moderate strength. Its key properties include:
- Hardness: After hardening, C45 can achieve a hardness level of 56-62 HRC, making it suitable for applications where moderate wear resistance is required.
- Applications: C45 is frequently used in the manufacture of bushings and other machinery components, particularly in mining and construction equipment.
Chemical Composition:
- Carbon (C): 0.42-0.50%
- Manganese (Mn): ≤0.50% (usually not specifically added)
- Silicon (Si): ≤0.40% (usually not specifically added)
- Phosphorus (P): ≤0.035%
- Sulfur (S): ≤0.035%
Comparison
Hardness and Strength: 20CrMnTi generally offers higher hardness and strength compared to C45, making it more suitable for high-load applications.
Heat Treatment: 20CrMnTi requires more complex heat treatment processes to achieve its desired properties, while C45 is easier to machine and process.
Cost: Due to its alloying elements and heat treatment requirements, 20CrMnTi is typically more expensive than C45.
Conclusion: The choice between 20CrMnTi and C45 steel for plain bearings depends on the specific application requirements, including load capacity, wear resistance, and cost considerations.

steel plain bearing with grooves
Large Diameter Steel Plain Bushings For Hydrodynamic Bearings
Large diameter steel plain bushings play a crucial role in hydrodynamic bearings, which are vital components in various industrial applications, including pumps, compressors, and turbines. These bushings are designed to support radial loads and minimize friction between moving parts, ensuring smooth and efficient operation.
Hydrodynamic Bearing Operation:
Hydrodynamic bearings rely on fluid dynamics to function. A thin layer of lubricant forms between the rotating shaft and the bushing, reducing friction and wear. The large diameter of these bushings enhances load distribution and stability, which is especially important in high-speed and heavy-load applications.
Selection Criteria:
When choosing large diameter steel plain bushings for hydrodynamic bearings, several factors must be considered:
- Material Grade: High-quality steel is essential for durability and reliability under demanding conditions.
- Hardness: Materials like 20CrMnTi or C45 steel, which are case-hardened and clean, offer hardness levels of HRC 56-63. This ensures the bushings can withstand high stresses and maintain performance.
- Tolerance and Surface Finish: Precision in these aspects is crucial for ensuring proper fit and function in the bearing assembly.
- Recommended Materials: While steel is often used, bronze bushings are also recommended for their excellent wear resistance and fatigue strength. Bronze alloys such as Phosphor Bronze (CuSn6 and CuSn8) and CuAl10Fe5Ni5 are suitable for large diameter plain bushings in hydrodynamic bearings due to their suitability for heavy-duty applications.
Specifications:
Plain Bearing Steel Bushing: Carburized and quenched, with a hardness range of HRC 56-63 and a case depth of 0.75-1.5 mm.
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Applications of 20CrMnTi Steel Bearings
20CrMnTi steel is highly regarded for its excellent mechanical properties, making it a popular choice for various applications, particularly in the production of bearings and other components in rotating machinery. Below are the main applications for 20CrMnTi steel bearings:
1. High-Load Machinery
20CrMnTi is extensively used in bearings for high-load applications, such as those found in electric locomotives, mining machinery, and heavy-duty industrial equipment. Its high strength and exceptional wear resistance make it ideal for components subjected to significant stress.
2. Automotive Components
In the automotive industry, 20CrMnTi is utilized in bearings for transmission systems and other critical engine components. These bearings require durability and reliable performance under varying conditions, both of which are provided by 20CrMnTi steel.
3. Aerospace and Aviation
For aerospace applications, 20CrMnTi bearings are favored for their ability to withstand extreme conditions while ensuring reliable performance. This makes them suitable for use in aircraft engines and other high-performance machinery where precision and durability are paramount.
4. Machine Tools
20CrMnTi is also applied in bearings for machine tools, where precision, reliability, and operational efficiency are crucial for maintaining high product quality.
5. Pumps and Valves
Bearings made from 20CrMnTi are commonly used in pumps and valve bodies. The steel’s resistance to wear and its ability to maintain performance under high pressure and temperature conditions make it well-suited for these demanding environments.
6. Gears and Transmission Parts
The properties of 20CrMnTi make it an excellent choice for gears and other transmission components. It can handle the demands of continuous operation and high-torque applications, ensuring longevity and reliability.


