The term plain bearings is a misnomer. True, these bearings are not as mechanically complex as antifriction bearings, but don't let their simplicity fool you. Plain bearings come in a variety of designs and materials. Engineers who don't consider all the possibilities for plain bearings may miss a chance to cut costs or boost performance.
"You can't specify a plain bearing by size or color," says Aubrey G. Butler III, product manager at Igus Inc. (East Providence, RI). "We make bearings in 16 materials to meet different operating conditions."