Sleeve bearings are internal components that play an essential roll in the operation of most machinery. Bearings are small, circular parts that are placed between two surfaces that would otherwise rub against each other. They, instead, make contact with the bearings, which reduces or eliminates the level of friction that occurs between moving parts inside the equipment. A sleeve bearing contains oil to further reduce the level of friction. And, as long as the oil does not leak, the lubrication greatly extends the life and long-term usefulness of any machine that utilizes them.

Bearings are used in items from small household products to large industrial equipment. They are made using a variety of materials for various purposes. Sleeve bearing specialists can answer any questions you have, but before placing an order there are several things you should decide:

1. What styles of bearings do you need? This may include a nylon sleeve bearing, metric sleeve bearing or many other specific bearing types;

2. Will you need to perform sleeve bearing maintenance to keep your machinery in top operating order;

3. Can the manufacturer your company deals with provide you with every type of bearing that you require?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase metallic sleeve bearings

There are many companies that manufacture metal-based bearings in all shapes and sizes. Businesses that produce products which contain moving parts usually require a large amount of bearings to keep their assembly lines operating at full capacity. Establish a beneficial working relationship with a manufacturer or distributor of bearings that are made out of metal.

I recommend: Order bronze sleeve bearing products from Morgan Bronze Products. Purchase a motor sleeve bearing from Jensen Machine. Buy adapter sleeve bearings through Chin Hsing Precision Industry. Get an aluminum sleeve bearing from WBParts.

Order specialty sleeve bearings

Every type of sleeve bearing serves the same basic purpose, but there is a large variety of styles for this product. Most manufacturing companies or distributors keep many styles of bearings in stock, so that your business will be able to buy anything you need from one location. Work with a company that stocks all the varieties of bearings you need for your product line.

I recommend: Request split sleeve bearings or a flanged sleeve bearing from Quality Bearings & Components. Buy a grooved sleeve bearing through Anchor Bronze & Metals.

Employ sleeve bearing manufacturers that will customize you order

Certain sleeve bearing manufacturers will make specialized products to fulfill a specific need your company might have. Turn to them when you need a uniquely shaped or sized bearing. Depending on your specifications, they can do a one-time special order or produce a bulk order for your business.

I recommend: Purchase customized plastic sleeve bearings from Slideways. Contact Bunting Bearings for assistance in designing a specific type of sleeve bearing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Buy sleeve bearings from wholesale providers in order to get the best deal possible when you need to place a large order.
• •  To start off, work with a few different sleeve bearing manufacturing companies to determine which one best suits your needs in the fields of customer service, delivery time and product availability.
• •  Determine what composition of sleeve bearing is right for you. Some people prefer metal based bearings, while others choose products that are made out of plastic.