Spherical plain bearings are standardized, ready-to-mount, mechanical components that enable multi-directional, self-aligning movements. The inner ring has a spherical convex outside diameter, while the outer ring has a correspondingly concave inside diameter. The forces acting on the bearing may be static or may occur when the bearing makes oscillating or recurrent tilting and slewing movements at relatively low speeds.

Design advantages inherent to spherical plain bearings include the ability to:

• Accommodate misalignment 
• Accommodate deformation of surrounding components in operation​
• Accommodate wide manufacturing tolerances and the use of cost-effective, welded assemblies​
• Suitable for heavy static and dynamic loads​ at relatively low speeds
• Multi-directional movements​