Product type
JFK spherical plain bearings
Precision and reliability for every application
Not sure which type is the right choice for you? The "Selection guide" section at the bottom of this page will help you identify the best solution for your application. Alternatively, contact us directly for technical assistance.
Radial, axial, and angular-contact: the complete range for every load direction
Spherical design for oscillating movements and misalignment compensation under all maintenance conditions.
JFK spherical plain bearings, also known as spherical joints, are mechanical components designed to transmit oscillating movements and variable angular tilting, while accommodating radial, axial, or combined loads and compensating for misalignment between moving parts. JFK Group offers spherical plain bearings in three main types: radial, axial, and angular-contact. Each type is available in maintenance-required (steel-on-steel), relubricable (steel/bronze or hard chrome/PTFE), and maintenance-free (hard chrome/PTFE) versions. All dimensions comply with DIN 648 E and DIN 648 K and are interchangeable with other metric products.
Radial, axial, and angular-contact: the complete range for every load direction
Spherical design for oscillating movements and misalignment compensation under all maintenance conditions.
JFK spherical plain bearings, also known as spherical joints, are mechanical components designed to transmit oscillating movements and variable angular tilting, while accommodating radial, axial, or combined loads and compensating for misalignment between moving parts. JFK Group offers spherical plain bearings in three main types: radial, axial, and angular-contact. Each type is available in maintenance-required (steel-on-steel), relubricable (steel/bronze or hard chrome/PTFE), and maintenance-free (hard chrome/PTFE) versions. All dimensions comply with DIN 648 E and DIN 648 K and are interchangeable with other metric products.
Find the product
Three versions for each loading direction
The three types of spherical plain bearings differ in the direction of the main load they are designed to withstand. The choice depends on the type of load expected in the application and the maintenance requirements.
JFK axial spherical plain bearings
For axial or combined radial and axial loads. Available in maintenance-required (GX..S) and maintenance-free (GX..T) versions. Require a properly sized closed housing.
JFK angular-contact spherical plain bearings
For combined radial and axial loads. Opposed-pair mounting for axial loads in both directions. Available in maintenance-required (GAC..S) and maintenance-free (GAC..T) versions.TECHNICAL COMPARISON
Which spherical plain bearing for which application
A concise comparison of the main parameters: load direction, maintenance versions, and mounting. For application-specific sizing, the JFK technical team is available for direct support.
| Type | Main load | Maintenance versions | Mounting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radial spherical plain bearings | Radial | Maintenance · Relubricable · Maintenance-free | Compliant with DIN 648 E/K |
| Thrust spherical plain bearings | Axial or combined | Maintenance · Maintenance-free | Closed housing required |
| Angular contact spherical plain bearings | Radial and axial combined | Maintenance · Maintenance-free | Paired mounting for bidirectional loads |
SELECTION GUIDE
Start by identifying the operating conditions
JFK spherical plain bearings cover a wide range of applications: from high radial loads to pure axial loads, from applications requiring periodic maintenance to those requiring maintenance-free operation. Start by selecting the operating condition that best matches your application.
Predominantly radial load
Maintenance-required or maintenance-free radial spherical plain bearings cover the vast majority of applications involving radial loads.
Axial or combined load
Axial spherical plain bearings are designed for predominantly axial loads, while angular-contact spherical plain bearings are suitable for combined loads with paired mounting.
Maintenance-free operation
Hard chrome/PTFE versions ensure reliable operation without maintenance. High and alternating loads
The relubricable steel/bronze versions offer wear resistance and a long service life when properly lubricated at regular intervals.
Have a specific requirement?
Haven’t found the right operating condition?
JFK’s technical team analyses loads, speeds and operating conditions to identify the right solution.