What Is a Bushing?
In a broader context, a bushing is used to fill gaps between parts. Bushings are frequently employed in machine and bearing components.
Bearing components constantly experience friction with the rotating shaft during machine operation. Even when grease or other lubricants are used to mitigate wear, it cannot be entirely eliminated.
As a result, it becomes necessary to rejuvenate the worn parts. By utilizing bushings, functionality can be restored simply by replacing the parts.
Uses of Bushings
Here are examples of applications for bushings:
- Automobile suspension arm joints
Friction arises between the suspension arms and the car body due to vibrations while the car is in motion and between the arms themselves. To reduce vibration, rubber bushings are used at these joints. Over time, as the rubber material deteriorates, vibration and wobbling may occur during driving. - Linkage between the motor and arm
In motors used for lid opening and closing applications, oilless bushings are often placed in the mounting hole of the arm that connects the lid to the motor. This is because replacing the arm itself would be a major undertaking.
Principles of Bushings
There are two types of bushings: oilless and oiling, each with different characteristics.
- Oilless bushings
Since regular lubrication is not required, this type of bushing is often used in places where lubrication is challenging. However, it is more susceptible to wear, requiring more frequent replacement. - Oiling bushings
Regular lubrication reduces wear and the need for replacement. Neglecting lubrication, on the other hand, shortens their lifespan, emphasizing the importance of maintenance. The use of an automatic lubricator can eliminate the need for manual maintenance.
Bushing strength varies based on the material used, so appropriate selection is crucial depending on the intended application.
For general machine components, selecting a material with high strength for wear resistance is straightforward. However, bushings are designed to be replaced.
If bushings are too strong, they won’t wear out, but the main body components will, increasing the cost and effort required for part replacement.
Therefore, appropriate materials for bushings should be selected with consideration for the materials of the main body components.