Spherical bearings

Spherical (rod-end) bearings are plain bearings whose inner and outer rings have spherical contact surfaces. They simultaneously carry a large radial load and a bidirectional axial load.

Depending on the lubrication method for the working surfaces, two groups are produced: those requiring lubrication (steel/steel pairing) and self-lubricating types — without external lubrication, with a steel/PTFE-composite or steel/organic-fibre sliding surface. The sliding surfaces of the steel versions are coated with molybdenum disulfide (MoS2).

Series production has also been established for non-detachable ШН-type bearings capable of operating without lubrication under dry-friction conditions. The main application of ШН-type metal-PTFE bearings is in movable joints on Mi-series helicopters and An-series aircraft.