scope:

This standard specifies the required characteristics, inspection and test methods, qualification and acceptance conditions for spherical plain bearings in corrosion resisting steel, self aligning with self-lubricating liner designed to withstand (under load) slight swivelling and slow rotations only.

This standard applies whenever referenced.

These bearings EN 4538-1, EN 4538-2, EN 4539-1 and EN 4539-2 are for actuator applications and for use in the temperature range - 54 °C to 163 °C and for EN 4538-003 and EN 4539-003 for use in the temperature range - 54 °C to 120 °C.

The liner may be of a fabric or composite material bonded to the inside diameter of the outer ring or in a composite material moulded into a pre-formed cavity between the inner and outer rings.

The duty cycle (Annex E, normative) has been established on the basis of a civil aircraft aileron surface application.