The slide plate bronze graphite material is composed of highly wear-resistant copper and brass alloys, with the sliding surface uniformly equipped with “macro-distributed” solid lubricant deposits. Depending on the movement sequence, it is essential to ensure that the sliding insert receives adequate coating to establish a stable transfer film for the smooth operation of the bearing. The high density of bronze guarantees excellent load-bearing capacity while being highly resistant to the embedding of dirt particles in the lubricant reservoir. There are two types of graphite-based inserts and one PTFE-based insert available. In dry operation, a break-in film of 10 to 20 microns thick allows for the transfer of solid lubricant to the corresponding material, even when the sliding partners make initial contact.

A separating lubricating film can only form on conventional lubricated bronze materials if the appropriate movement conditions and sliding speeds are met. In contrast, with bronze graphite, lubrication is performed by the sliding material itself. Even during the initial sliding movements, solid lubricant is released from the sliding material through microabrasion. This results in the formation of smooth surfaces with a firmly adhering solid lubricant film on the sliding partners. The lubricant remains in the contact zone, even under high loads, ensuring effective separation of the sliding surfaces and maintaining a consistently low coefficient of friction with minimal wear.