High-Performance Water Lubricated Phenolic Bearings Michigan Whees Phenolic bearings offer a high quality solution for water lubricated shaft applications.Phenolic bearings are designed with longitudinal grooves that form a hydrodynamic wedge, or water film, between the shaft and the bearing, even during slow speed operation. This water film is capable of absorbing shock, and reducing vibration and noise.Phenolic bearings are built from chemical and oil resistant nitrile rubber, and are available with brass and non-metallic (Phenolic) shells to fit many applications. Every bearing is inspected to ensure quality. Michigan Wheel stocks a large inventory of common sizes, and special sizes are available upon request.