In this study we investigated the tribological behaviour of brass and two different tin-based bearing materials in oil lubricated sliding conditions. One of these alloys with low Sb content (7%) is known as SAE 12 and is widely used in the automotive industry and the other with high Sb content (20%) is a Sn–Sb–Cu alloy and CW619 brass. Wear and friction characteristics were determined with respect to sliding distance, sliding speed and bearing load, using a Tecquipment HFN type 5 journal bearing test equipment. Hardness measurements were carried out to determine the effect on tribological properties. Light microscopy is used to understand the tribological events in these three different bearing materials. Thus, the purpose of this study is to investigate the tribological properties bearing alloys with different compositions used especially in heavy industrial service conditions. Tests were carried in lubricated conditions.