Precision Motion Control I CCTY

Understanding Spherical Plain Bearings (SPB)

April 7, 2026October 27, 2016

Spherical Plain Bearings (SPB)/rod end bearings are used to connect or transfer movement such as connecting ends on control linkages, hydraulic cylinder rod ends, vehicle steering linkage suspensions, heavy equipment articulated joints and other severe duty uses where pivoting misalignment is present. The challenge for the manufacturer is a balance of products to satisfy the …

The Power of a Square Ball U-Joint

October 15, 2024October 25, 2016

The universal joint has remained fundamentally the same for more than a century. One of CCTY’s design teams, John Sweetwood and Rich Perlberg, found a way to simplify the design making the movement smoother and stronger. The conception of a square ball made it possible. A universal joint can contain more than 100 individual components. …

The Case for Matching Shaft with Self-Lubricating Bushings

February 19, 2026October 12, 2016

A bushing design that experiences frequent start-ups and shut-downs can lead to premature wearing – or even failure. This also happens when a bushing runs too dry, for example when there is a sudden loss of contact lubrication, an aggressive contamination influence or simply an under-designed mating shaft. During start-up, the shaft rubs against the …

Understanding Bushings

October 10, 2022October 11, 2016

Bushings are the bearing with multiple uses and names – bushing, bushes and often times just the term bearing is used.

Metal Bushings and High Load Applications

February 19, 2026September 26, 2016

One of the chief difficulties in traditional metal bushings is lowing friction and preventing premature wear, despite lubrication. This lifecycle concern comes as no surprise given that efficient machines run around the clock and typically produce varying degrees of heat profiles within the operating systems. A secondary lubrication source, such as a costly grease or …

3 of the Most Common Ball Bearing Questions

February 28, 2022September 7, 2016

To fully understand ball bearings, it’s important to know how they work. Ball bearings are relatively simple structures that can carry different load weights depending on their internal structure.

Choosing the Right Ball Bearing (Infographic)

February 28, 2022September 6, 2016

Custom SPB Drives ATV Steering

February 28, 2022May 26, 2016

A recreational vehicle OEM requested standard spherical plain bearings (SPBs) for a newly designed steering system. During the testing phase, the SPB showed signs of wear and it was determined that the axial clearance needed to be tighter. The OEM asked CCTY Bearing Company’s engineers to modify the bearing’s axial clearance.

What You Need to Know about Chinese Steel in Bearings

August 21, 2025May 24, 2016

Bearings are produced worldwide and used in applications ranging from conveyors to aerospace applications. Each country or region has their own “Bearing Steel Standard.” Based on where the company is located and where its bearings are manufactured, the steel is coded as one of the following: In theory, all steel grades are comparable, however, the …

Preventing Bearing Rust with the Right Methodology

February 19, 2026May 20, 2016

Whether it’s on your car or in a bearing, rust is never a good thing. Corrosion is caused by environmental factors such as water, salt water, acid/alkaline solutions or chemical intrusion.