Due to their large contact area, spherical bushings are ideal for carrying high-capacity radial and axial loads in a small space. Certain bearings are designed for high misalignment or adjustable clearance. Spherical plain bearings work well in many heavy-duty applications, including articulated machinery joints, vehicle steering linkages, and textile equipment.

Rod ends and spherical plain bearings effectively handle oscillating movement and angular misalignment at relatively low sliding speeds. Rod ends feature an eye-shaped head on an integral shank. Also known as ball joint rod ends, spherical rod ends house spherical plain bearings. The rod end design supports pivoting within the housing to accommodate misalignment, along with radial and axial loads. Spherical plain bearings are also called spherical plain (or plane) bushings, spherical bushings, or ball joint swivel bearings.