What is an advantage of self-lubricating bushings?

Self-lubricating bushings offer significant advantages in terms of maintenance and performance. One of the primary benefits is that these bushings can operate without the need for additional lubrication, which minimizes noise and vibration during operation. Traditional bushings often require regular maintenance to apply lubricants, which can result in operational downtime and increased labor costs.

By being self-lubricating, these bushings are designed with materials that release a lubricant over time, ensuring smooth operation while simultaneously reducing friction. This leads to quieter machinery and reduced operational vibration, which can enhance the lifespan of surrounding components.

The other options presented do not capture the primary advantages of self-lubricating bushings. Higher operating temperatures may not be an inherent benefit, as these bushings are often designed to operate effectively in a range of conditions but not necessarily at higher temperatures. Increased friction is contrary to the intended function of self-lubricating bushings, which aim to reduce friction to improve efficiency. Lastly, increased weight is typically not an advantage; in fact, lighter-weight solutions are often preferred in applications to enhance performance and minimize stress on nearby components.