What is the difference between bearings and bearing shells

Bearings and bushings play different roles in mechanical equipment, with different functions and working principles.

Bearings are the core component of mechanical equipment, whose main task is to provide stable support for rotating bodies while ensuring minimal friction coefficient during 

motion, thereby maintaining the accuracy of their rotation. Bearings can be divided into two categories: rolling and sliding. The characteristic of rolling bearings is that there are 

balls or rollers embedded between the inner and outer rings, which support the relative movement of the bearing's inner and outer rings through rolling. Sliding bearings, on the 

other hand, are different in that they only contain the outer ring, and the shaft rotates directly within the outer ring. This rotation is supported by the micro liquid lubrication film 

generated between the shaft and the outer ring.

The bearing shell is a crucial part of the sliding bearing, which is in close contact with the journal and is usually made of high wear-resistant materials such as bronze or anti 

friction alloys. In some special applications, bearing shells made of wood, engineering plastics, or rubber can even be seen. Its unique tile shaped semi-circular cylindrical design 

aims to ensure smooth contact with the shaft neck. A thin oil film needs to be formed between the bearing shell and the shaft to achieve lubrication effect. If this oil film cannot 

form or be damaged, direct friction will occur between the bearing and the shaft, and the resulting high temperature may damage the bearing.

Load bearing capacity: The engine crankshaft bears high-strength power loads during operation, so components that can withstand high pressure and high temperature 

conditions are required. The bearing shell is made of wear-resistant metal alloy, which has high wear resistance and durability, and can withstand long-term high load operation. 

In contrast, some bearing materials may not be durable enough and are prone to damage under high load conditions.

Lubrication requirements: The bearing shells are usually coated with lubricating oil to ensure that the crankshaft can maintain sufficient lubrication during high-speed rotation. 

This helps to reduce friction and reduce energy loss. Bearings also require lubrication, but in some cases, there may be issues with uneven lubrication or insufficient oil supply, 

leading to bearing wear and failure.

Manufacturing and maintenance costs: The manufacturing of bearing shells is relatively simple and easier to maintain and replace. Bearings typically require more complex 

manufacturing processes and are more difficult to replace. This means that using bearing shells can reduce the cost of engine manufacturing and maintenance.

In summary, the main differences between bearings and bushings lie in their working principle, application scenarios, load bearing capacity, lubrication requirements, 

manufacturing costs, and ease of maintenance