This European Standard specifies the required characteristics, inspection and test methods, qualification and acceptance conditions for spherical plain bearings in corrosion resisting steel, self aligning with self-lubricating liner designed to withstand (under load) slight swivelling and slow rotations only. This standard applies whenever referenced. These bearings prEN 4538-1, prEN 4538-2, prEN 4539-1 and prEN 4539-2 are for actuator applications and for use in the temperature range – 54 °C to 163 °C and for EN 4538-003 and EN 4539-003 for use in the temperature range – 54 °C to 120 °C. The liner may be of a fabric or composite material bonded to the inside diameter of the outer ring or in a composite material moulded into a pre-formed cavity between the inner and outer rings. The duty cycle (Annex E, normative) has been established on the basis of a civil aircraft aileron surface application.