Copper alloys are a standard material for many types of bearing applications. You can imagine them to be like a sponge embedded with a hard wear resistant material for wear resistance. While the copper alloy bearing will correct the minor misalignments between the shaft and the journal, the embedded material like Tin, Nickel etc. shall prevent the wear. 

 

Leaded bronze is a traditional alloy for bearings. They offer a combination of lead embedded in a Copper Tin Matrix. Lead can provide temporary lubrication in case of lubrication failure. Also is has the embeddability properties which can work despite minor dust. Also, it can save an expensive shaft from scouring due to presence of abrasive materials. These alloys form bulk of the bearing requirements.

 

Tin and copper alloy is very popular where high compressive strength is required. They have an exceptionally good life. But they require a hardened shaft. Also, adequate lubrication must be provided. Tin Bronzes are also more expensive than other grades.

 

Another important class is the Aluminum Bronze. They have very high strength. So they are more suited to high impact applications. But they cannot embed the dirt well. So, they do not have very good bearing properties. They require clean dust free assembly. Also, they require sufficient and consistent lubrication. Also, they can be used only on hardened shaft. 

Major requirements of the bronze bearing alloys are compressive strength, fatigue resistance, temperature endurance, corrosion and seizure resistance and resistance to deformity.