A journal bearing is designed to support a rotating shaft in a piece of electrical or mechanical equipment. The area of the shaft supported by this bearing is called the bearing journal. The shaft rotates in the bearing while a layer of lubricant separates the two parts to stop friction and make it run smoothly. Journal bearings are used when the load is light and the motion is continuous. Examples of where you would find journal bearings include turbines, pumps, many high speed industrial electric motors, gearboxes and other large purpose built rotating apparatus. Like in other bearings you might be familiar with, a journal bearing has no rolling element. The terms radial or sleeve bearings can be used when referring to journal bearings. Journal bearings, if taken care of with lubrication, are durable and long lasting. They are commonly made out of Babbitt or bronze alloy materials.