According to the American Bearing Manufacturers Association (ABMA), an association representing global manufacturers of bearings, a plain bearing is the simplest type of bearing comprising just the bearing surface and no rolling elements. Plain bearings are cylindrical sleeves that bear light to moderate radial loads. It is a mechanical element used to reduce friction between rotating shafts and stationary support members. Plain bearings function via a sliding action instead of the rolling action utilized by ball, roller, and needle bearings. Plain bearings exhibit superior properties such as dimensional & operational stability at high temperatures and pressures; are often inexpensive, compact, and lightweight; and have high load-carrying capacities.
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