Rod Ends
Designed to accommodate misalignment and motion transfer, our rod ends offer smooth, reliable operation under dynamic loads. Available in multiple configurations and materials for optimal performance and longevity.
Product Overview
Rod ends are mechanical articulating joints that accommodate angular misalignment and oscillating movement. Radial Bearing manufactures rod ends in a variety of sizes, configurations, and materials to suit the unique needs of each application.
Whether you’re engineering for tight space constraints, high cycle counts, or extreme environmental conditions, our rod ends are designed to perform with precision and consistency. Our components are manufactured to strict aerospace and industrial standards, backed by AS9100D and ISO certifications, and available in both commercial and high-performance grades.
Product Design
Precision Series
Built for high-load, high-precision applications. These rod ends feature tighter tolerances and higher performing materials. Typically used in aerospace and defense, our precision series rod ends are available in a range of sizes, materials, and configurations.
Commercial Series
Offers reliable performance in environments where extreme precision isn’t required but consistent quality is. Typically used in general applications, our commercial series rod ends are available in a range of sizes, materials, and configurations.
Custom
Product Types
CONSTRUCTION
CONSTRUCTION
3-piece Rod Ends
A precise and durable design featuring a separate race or liner between the body and the ball. The additional race allows for tighter tolerances and is often made of a self-lubricating material like PTFE for improved wear resistance and smoother operation.
2-piece Rod Ends
In this design, the spherical ball articulates directly against a metal race that is formed, or “swaged,” into the rod end’s body. They are typically more cost-effective than 3-piece versions and offer good strength for both radial (pulling) and axial (side) loads.
THREAD
THREAD
Male Rod Ends
Threaded shank design allows for easy attachment to linkage systems. Available with or without lubrication fittings, in a wide range of thread sizes and materials.
Female Rod Ends
Internally threaded body allows for secure, compact connections in tighter assemblies. Ideal for applications with restricted space or high-frequency movement.
LUBRICATION
LUBRICATION
Self-Lubricating
These feature a PTFE, nylon or similar polymer liner that eliminates the need for maintenance and provides a quieter, smoother, and longer-lasting joint.
Metal-to-Metal
These designs do not have a liner and require regular lubrication. They are often used in high-temperature applications and offer a more free-moving joint.
MATERIALS
MATERIALS
Carbon Steel
A cost-effective material for standard-duty applications with minimal movement. Rod ends are often zinc-plated for corrosion resistance.
Specialty
Chromoly steel for applications requiring fatigue resistance, strength and durability. Stainless steel for applications requiring high corrosion resistance. Aluminum for applications requiring lighter weight where the load is not extreme.
METRIC & IMPERIAL
Available in either metric or imperial units to fit different systems.
Applications
Radial Bearing rod ends are designed to handle angular misalignment, vibration, and dynamic loading across a wide range of mission-critical systems. Our components are trusted in both precision flight assemblies and rugged industrial machinery, delivering reliable performance in every environment.
Flight Control Surfaces
Rudders, flaps, spoilers, and elevators
Landing Gear Systems
Struts, steering linkages, and shock-absorbing joints
Rotorcraft Controls
Main and tail rotor assemblies, throttle and pitch controls
Jet & Turbine Engines
Variable geometry turbochargers, EGR systems, and throttle linkages
Actuation & Motion Systems
Hydraulic and pneumatic controls, operator controls
Vehicle Suspension & Steering
Heavy truck, high-performance ORV, and racing platforms
Door Hinge Mechanisms
Structural hinges in aerospace and industrial equipment
Agricultural & Construction
Equipment: Tractors, combines, earth movers, utility vehicles
Commercial Equipment
Fire safety systems, HVAC units, outdoor power machinery
Industries
- Commercial and Regional Aircraft
- Business and General Aviation Aircraft
- Rotorcraft
- Military Aircraft, Rotorcraft and UAVs
- Ground Vehicles
- Space Launch Vehicles
- Engine Turbo Systems
- Heavy Truck and Suspension Systems
- Specialty Vehicles
- Earth Moving Equipment
- Tractors, Combines, Hay Balers
- Utility Vehicles
- High-performance Racing
- Specialty Manufacturing
- Industrial Systems
Explore Applications Across Industries
Case Studies
Powered by Cablecraft
Leveraging the recognition, credibility, resources and industry expertise of Cablecraft, Radial Bearing is a leading designer and manufacturer of engineered motion control linkage products.
Learn More at Cablecraft.com
Get Started with Radial Bearing
Put reliable control in the hands of the world’s drivers, pilots, and equipment operators with the expertise and support of Radial Bearing. Contact us today to discuss your needs.