Beyond DU® – The Evolution of Metal-Polymer Plain Bearings and Bushings

In 1956, Glacier Metal Company set a new standard in the bearing industry by introducing the world’s first self-lubricating metal-polymer plain bearing. This groundbreaking development featured a unique composite structure comprising a steel backing for robust mechanical strength, a porous sintered bronze interlayer, and a PTFE and lead-impregnated overlay. The result was a bearing with outstanding wear resistance and extremely low friction. 

This innovative structure offered numerous advantages. It improved energy efficiency through its low-friction PTFE layer and significantly extended service life due to the wear-resistant bronze component. These bearings required no maintenance, as they could operate effectively without external lubrication, and delivered greater reliability by preventing shaft and bearing seizure in boundary conditions. Their compact, thin-wall design supported space-saving, lightweight applications. Additionally, the elimination of metal-to-metal contact reduced operational noise, and their simple assembly process required no costly or complex mounting tools.

Since that initial innovation, GGB has continued to build on this legacy. With decades of experience in polymer processing and formulation development, the company has introduced a comprehensive range of self-lubricating metal-polymer bearing products that offer even greater performance. These advancements have led to the creation of stronger, more durable, and environmentally friendly lead-free bushings and bearings that fully comply with EU directives such as ELV, RoHS, and WEEE. They are designed to perform reliably under extreme conditions, whether in dry or lubricated applications.

Among these advanced solutions are the DP4® and DP4-B (bronze-backed) bushings, which were originally developed for high-performance automotive shock absorbers and heavy-duty hydraulic applications. Today, they are widely used in both automotive and industrial sectors.  

Their versatility extends to a wide array of industrial applications as well. Offered in various standard sizes and shapes, including cylindrical and flanged bushings, and thrust washers, these bearings are used in industries such as aerospace, agriculture, construction, food and beverage processing, marine, material handling, office and packaging equipment, as well as in pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders, rail and tram systems, textile machinery, and valves.

For lubricated environments, GGB’s DP31 bushings are engineered to deliver superior performance. These bushings offer exceptional resistance to wear, fatigue, flow erosion, and cavitation while maintaining low friction. Typical applications include fuel injection and power steering pumps, compressors, engine valve-train systems, hydraulic pumps and motors, shock absorbers, struts, and transmission bearings. 

In addition, GGB offers DP10 bearings, which are recommended for marginally lubricated environments, and DP11 bearings, which are specifically designed for dry applications. DP11 is particularly effective in systems that involve high-frequency, low-amplitude oscillating motion, such as pulley dampers, belt and chain tensioners, twin mass flywheels, clutches, and solenoids. 

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