
Bushings, also called plain bearings, plain bushings, or sleeve bearings, are machined or formed components that reduce friction, enhance efficiency, and reduce vibration and noise between a rotating or sliding shaft and its supporting structure. Thrust washers are flat washers that are placed between a rotating surface and a stationary component. They can be made of metal or plastic, with the latter offering benefits like better lubrication and reduced noise. PTFE and nylon are two commonly used plastics for bushings and washers, offering advantages like high mechanical strength, low friction, and resistance to abrasion and chemicals. Nylon shoulder washers, for instance, are used in electro-mechanical components due to their high voltage resistance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | PTFE, Nylon |
| Operating Temperature | PTFE: 550° F, Nylon: 220° C |
| Use Cases | Aerospace, Automotive, Construction, Defense, Plumbing, Electrical |
| Advantages Over Metal | Better Lubrication, No External Lubrication Needed |
| Nylon Shoulder Washer Characteristics | Corrosion-Resistant, Electrical Insulation, Chemical-Resistant |
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What You'll Learn

Nylon plastic bushings and washers
Nylon is a commonly used plastic in the manufacture of bushings and washers, also known as plain bearings, plain bushings, or sleeve bearings. These components are designed to reduce friction, improve efficiency, and reduce vibration and noise between a rotating or sliding shaft and its supporting structure.
Nylon plastic bushings work well in electrical and electronic applications and applications requiring a slip surface. They are also used as shoulder washers, sometimes known as plastic bushings or step washers, to insulate fasteners or shafts within electronic equipment. Nylon shoulder washers are resistant to many chemicals and corrosion and act as electrical insulators by preventing metal-to-metal contact.
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PTFE plastic bushings and washers
Bushings, also known as plain bearings, plain bushings, or sleeve bearings, are machined or formed components designed to reduce friction, improve efficiency, and reduce vibration and noise between a rotating or sliding shaft and its supporting structure. Thrust washers are a type of flat washer that is placed between a rotating surface and a stationary component. They can be used as standard washers or to support axial loads or side-to-side shaft motion while preventing movement along the shaft.
PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) and nylon are two commonly used plastics in the manufacturing of bushings and thrust washers. These thermoplastics exhibit unique properties that make them suitable for specific applications. PTFE and nylon share some characteristics, such as high mechanical strength and a low coefficient of friction, making them ideal for use in industries such as aerospace, automotive, construction, defence, and plumbing.
However, PTFE and nylon also have distinct differences. PTFE, for example, has a maximum operating temperature of around 550° F, while nylon typically operates up to 220° F. This makes PTFE a better choice for applications involving extreme temperatures. Additionally, PTFE offers self-lubricating properties, eliminating the need for external lubrication and reducing maintenance requirements. Its inert properties also prevent reactions with other substances, further extending its durability.
PTFE bushings, such as the Bushing Red PTFE, are metal-polymer bearings that are lead-free and compliant with European RoHS regulations. They offer excellent frictional properties, high load capacity, and suitability for various shaft movements. The compact size and low weight of PTFE bushings make them versatile for a range of applications. PTFE thrust washers are also available, providing the same benefits of reduced friction, self-lubrication, and durability as their bushing counterparts.
In summary, PTFE plastic bushings and washers offer advantages such as improved lubrication, high-temperature performance, and reduced maintenance compared to metal alternatives. PTFE's unique properties, including its mechanical strength, low friction, and chemical inertness, make it a versatile and reliable choice for bushings and washers in a wide range of industries.
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Plastic shoulder washers
Bushings, also called plain bearings, plain bushings, or sleeve bearings, are machined or formed components that reduce friction, enhance efficiency, and reduce vibration and noise between a rotating or sliding shaft and its supporting structure. Thrust washers are a type of flat washer located between a rotating surface and a stationary component. They can be used to support axial loads or side-to-side shaft motion while preventing movement along the shaft. Both bushings and thrust washers are typically constructed of metal or plastic.
Plastic bushings and washers made from materials like nylon offer advantages over metal alternatives. For instance, metal bushings and washers often need external lubrication, which may be challenging or detrimental in specific applications. Plastic washers are also durable, strong, and corrosion-resistant. They can be used as seals in some cases and act as spacers and guides.
Nylon shoulder washers are suitable for a wide range of insulation and mechanical applications. They are strong and corrosion-resistant, with the ability to act as seals in certain contexts. Nylon 6/6 is used in the manufacturing of nylon shoulder washers, which are UL94 V2 flame-resistant. Essentra Components offers a comprehensive selection of plastic shoulder washers, including nylon shoulder washer bushings.
PTFE and nylon are two commonly used plastics in manufacturing bushings and thrust washers. Both materials share elevated mechanical strength and a low coefficient of friction, making them suitable for applications in aerospace, automotive, construction, defence, and plumbing industries. However, PTFE and nylon differ in operating temperatures, self-lubricating properties, electrical conductivity, chemical reactivity, water interactivity, and cost. PTFE, for example, has a higher maximum operating temperature than nylon.
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Plastic washers for electrical insulation
Washers are a flattened ring of material placed between two surfaces to reduce friction and create a smooth, level surface. They can also be used for insulation, including electrical insulation. Electrical insulation washers are used to restrict the flow of electric current by supporting electrical conductors without allowing the current to pass through.
Plastic washers are often used for electrical insulation. They are typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or other durable plastics, offering a lightweight and non-corrosive option for insulation systems. Plastic washers can be made from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), which provides moisture and abrasion resistance. Other plastic washers are made from Polyamide 6.6 (PA) and Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), offering corrosion, abrasion, and chemical resistance.
Nylon is another plastic commonly used for electrical insulation washers. Nylon washers are resistant to many chemicals and corrosion, and they act as electrical insulators by preventing metal-to-metal contact. They also have elevated mechanical strength and a low coefficient of friction. Additionally, nylon washers can be made from Nylon 6/6, which has a UL94 V2 flame rating and is resistant to oil and most chemicals.
Another type of plastic washer used for electrical insulation is the shoulder washer, commonly used as a bushing to insulate fasteners or shafts within electronic equipment. These washers are made from non-conductive materials like Nylon to prevent electrical conductivity.
Plastic washers offer several advantages over their metal counterparts for electrical insulation. They are lightweight and non-corrosive, and provide electrical insulation without the need for external lubrication, which can be difficult or detrimental in certain applications.
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Plastic washers for noise reduction
Plastic washers are used in a variety of applications, including providing a watertight seal, minimising vibrations, and reducing noise and shock. They are often chosen over metal washers because they do not require external lubrication, which can be detrimental in certain applications. Plastic washers are also resistant to corrosion and chemicals.
Plastic washers are commonly used in electrical and mechanical applications where insulation and resistance to melting are required. They can be made from a range of materials, including nylon, PVC, and polyamide. Nylon washers, for example, are known for their elevated mechanical strength and low coefficient of friction, making them suitable for use in the aerospace, automotive, construction, defense, and plumbing industries.
PVC washers offer moisture and abrasion resistance, while polyamide washers provide excellent mechanical and chemical resistance. Other types of plastic washers include clear polycarbonate (PC) washers, which offer high transparency, and Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK) washers, which are hard plastic washers that provide excellent mechanical and chemical resistance.
When choosing a plastic washer for noise reduction, it is important to consider the specific requirements of the application, such as strength, insulation, corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and chemical resistance. Anti-vibration washers, also known as vibration damping washers, are specifically designed to reduce vibration and noise in mechanical systems. These washers are typically made of soft, flexible materials, such as rubber or silicone, and are used in conjunction with bolts or screws to isolate the vibrating components of a system, reducing the transmission of vibration and noise.
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Frequently asked questions
Bushings, also known as plain bearings, plain bushings, or sleeve bearings, are machined or formed components designed to reduce friction, improve efficiency, and reduce vibration and noise between a rotating or sliding shaft and the supporting structure.
Washers are flat disks installed underneath a nut that distributes pressure.
PTFE and nylon are two types of plastic commonly used in the manufacture of bushings and thrust washers. Nylon shoulder washers are commonly used as bushings to insulate fasteners or shafts within electronic equipment. They are made from non-conductive materials like nylon and provide electrical insulation.










































