
BOWMET BEARINGS: THE MOST SIGNIFICANT ADVANCEMENT IN PLAIN BEARING TECHNOLOGY IN OVER 70 YEARS
The BowMet® range is recognized as the most significant advancement in plain bearing technology in over 70 years. Manufactured using ToughMet® alloy by Materion in the USA, these heavy duty bronze bearings deliver the highest load capacity of any proprietary plain bearing available today. As a trusted heavy duty plain bearing manufacturer, Bowman has developed BowMet® Bearings to perform in the most demanding operating conditions.
Designed for extreme loads, these high load bronze bearings provide outstanding resistance to heat, high speeds, corrosion, wear, and shock loading. Their exceptional mechanical properties make them the preferred choice for industries such as mining, marine, heavy construction, steel production, and other heavy engineering applications.
As one of the leading bronze bearings suppliers, Bowman offers BowMet® Bearings that significantly outperform conventional bronze bearing materials while delivering a longer service life and reduced maintenance requirements. These heavy duty bronze bushings are engineered for applications where reliability, strength, and continuous operation are critical.
With decades of expertise as a heavy duty plain bearing manufacturer, Bowman is recognized among global bronze bearings suppliers for delivering premium bearing solutions that maximize equipment performance. Whether you require heavy duty bronze bearings, high load bronze bearings, or precision-engineered heavy duty bronze bushings, BowMet® Bearings provide an industry-leading solution for high-performance applications.
As experienced bronze bearings suppliers, Bowman supports customers worldwide with expert technical guidance, high-quality manufacturing, and bearing solutions designed to meet the toughest engineering challenges. When performance under extreme loads is essential, BowMet® Bearings set the benchmark for reliability, efficiency, and durability, reinforcing Bowman’s reputation as one of the most trusted bronze bearings suppliers in the industry.
BowMet® Bronze Bearings Specifications
| Structure | Toughmet ® spinodal bronze with optional lubrication holes/indentations. No lubrication holes/indentations on flanged Bowmet. |
|---|---|
| Max PV – Dry (N/mm² x m/s) | 0.6 |
| Max PV – Oiled (N/mm² x m/s) | 9.6 |
| Max Static load (N/mm²) | 820 |
| Max Dynamic load (N/mm²) | 340 |
| Max Sliding speed – Dry (m/s) | 3 |
| Max Sliding speed – With Oil (m/s) | 10 |
| Operating temperature (°C) | -250 to 300 |
| Thermal Conductivity (W/mk) | 38 |
| Coefficient of thermal expansion | 16.4 x 10-6/°C |
| Coefficient of friction – Dry | 0.25 |
| Coefficient of friction – With Oil | 0.04 |
| Recommended shaft finish (Ra) | 0.4 max (N5) |
| Recommended shaft hardness (HRC) | 60 |
| Hardness (HRC) | 30 min |
| Ultimate Tensile strength (N/mm²) | 860 |
| Yield strength (N/mm²) | 725 |
| Elongation (%) | 10 |
| Elastic modulus (N/mm²) | 144000 |
Key Strengths of BowMet® Heavy-Duty Bronze Bearings

Next-level Toughness
Manufactured from advanced ToughMet® alloys, ensuring exceptional strength, wear and resistance.

Ultimate Load Capacity
Engineered to endure extreme loads, maintaining stability under intense pressure conditions.

Reduced Cost & Waste
As a wrapped bearing, it uses far less material than solid machining, reducing waste and lowering cost.

Fast Performance
Low-friction properties enable swift, smooth motion for enhanced operational efficiency.

Suitable for Various Industries
Ideal for mining, marine, aerospace, and heavy industrial machinery.

Reduced Downtime
Corrosion resistance and extended service life minimize maintenance interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
If the answer to your question is not listed below, please feel free to give us a call directly on +44 (0)1235 462500 or email us on sales@bowman.co.uk.
What are BowMet® heavy-duty bronze bearings?
BowMet® heavy-duty bronze bearings are high-performance plain bearings manufactured using ToughMet® alloy by Materion. They are designed to handle exceptionally high loads, shock loading, elevated temperatures, and demanding operating conditions while providing excellent wear resistance, corrosion protection, and long service life across a wide range of industrial applications.
What is ToughMet® alloy?
ToughMet® is a proprietary high-strength copper alloy developed by Materion. It offers an outstanding combination of strength, hardness, corrosion resistance, and low friction, making it an ideal material for heavy-duty plain bearings. ToughMet® significantly outperforms conventional bronze alloys in high-load and high-speed applications while helping to reduce wear and maintenance requirements.
What are the key performance metrics of BowMet® Bearings?
BowMet® Bearings are engineered to deliver exceptional performance in demanding environments. Key benefits include:
- Extremely high load-carrying capacity
- Excellent resistance to wear, shock loading, and seizure
- Superior corrosion and chemical resistance
- Reliable performance at elevated temperatures
- Low friction for improved efficiency
- Longer service life with reduced maintenance requirements
How can I find the right BowMet® Bearing for my application?
Selecting the correct BowMet® Bearing depends on factors such as load capacity, shaft dimensions, operating speed, temperature, lubrication conditions, and environmental exposure. Bowman's engineering team can recommend the most suitable bearing configuration based on your application's specific requirements, ensuring optimum performance and service life.
What are the benefits of heavy duty Bronze Bearings?
Heavy-duty bronze bearings provide outstanding durability and reliability in demanding industrial environments. Their key advantages include high load capacity, excellent wear and corrosion resistance, long operational life, reduced maintenance, improved equipment reliability, and the ability to perform under extreme temperatures and heavy shock loads. These qualities make them ideal for industries such as mining, marine, construction, steel processing, and heavy manufacturing.








