Voices of Innovation: Lubron’s HLMR Disc & Spherical Bearings

Press Release • August 26, 2026
By Allen Sepielli, Business Development Engineer
Featuring insights from Allen Sepielli, Business Development Engineer

Why More Engineers Are Specifying Disc and PTFE Spherical Bearings

As bridge designs continue to evolve, engineers are seeking bearing solutions that can accommodate larger movements, higher loads, and greater rotational demands. While elastomeric and rocker bearings have long been used in bridge construction, modern projects often require a bearing system capable of delivering predictable performance under increasingly demanding conditions.

Disc Bearings and PTFE Spherical Bearings provide a solution by combining high load capacity with controlled rotation and low-friction movement. Available in fixed, guided expansion, and free expansion configurations, these bearings support thermal expansion, seismic displacement, and structural rotation while maintaining a compact footprint.

"Today's bridges demand more from a bearing than simply supporting load. Engineers need a solution that can accommodate movement, rotation, and changing structural demands with confidence. That's where Disc and PTFE Spherical Bearings excel."

– Allen Sepielli, Business Development Engineer, RBC Lubron

PTFE Spherical Bearings are often selected when multidirectional rotation and high compressive loads are required. Their spherical sliding interface allows rotation in any direction while maintaining a low coefficient of friction and compact design.

Disc Bearings are commonly specified for bridges requiring larger translational movements and controlled expansion. By combining a low-friction PTFE sliding surface with an elastomeric disc, they can accommodate both rotation and displacement within a single assembly.

"What sets Lubron apart is our ability to provide engineered bearing solutions backed by decades of infrastructure experience. We work closely with bridge owners, contractors, and fabricators to deliver bearings designed for the specific demands of each project."

– Allen Sepielli

Manufactured in the USA, RBC Lubron's High Load Multi-Rotational Bearings are designed for demanding infrastructure applications and are available with capacities up to 4,000 kips.

For bridge owners and designers evaluating alternatives to traditional elastomeric or rocker bearings, Disc and PTFE Spherical Bearings offer a modern approach to managing movement, rotation, and load transfer in today's infrastructure projects.