Rod end bearings and assemblies

Bearing types, Unibal rod end bearings

The design of bearing components is governed by the DIN / ISO 12240 standard, which also specifies the envelope and interface dimensions for mating structures.

Bearing components can be self-lubricating or fitted with grease nipples.

Schaublin SA produces spherical bearings to this standard, but we also offer custom engineer and produce spherical bearings to meet the customer's needs.

Bearing components and assemblies

The function of the bearing component is to transmit a static or, more frequently, a dynamic force, under particular angular or rotation conditions.

Spherical bearings supplement ball bearings or other casings in slow movements. They are also able to withstand high loads because of the large surface contact area.

An inner bush or ball is generally made from hardened chrome steel, pivots and tilts within a spherical cavity (the cage or outer ring). These two parts form a bearing that is held in a support structure, a rod body, or housing. The support will have either threaded rod (the male support) or a hollow tapped shank (the female support) enabling users to attach the bearing component to its assembly. The bearing may also be cylindrical (like a ball bearing), thus allowing users to insert it into their assembly.

The body of spherical bearings manufactured by Schaublin SA can be made from various materials: standard steel, high grade steel, stainless steel, titanium or aluminium.

The internal surface of the cage, or outer ring, which goes onto the inner bush is made of bronze (and will be lubricated) or self-lubricating material (PTFE).

What are the Applications ?

There are many applications in which spherical bearings may be used, among them :

Industrial bearings

• Industrial washing machines and spin dryers
• Textile machines (sewing, knitting, embroidering, etc.)
• Packaging machines (coffee, chocolate, etc.)
• Print industry machinery (printing, cutting, sorting, etc.)
• Handling machines (loading / unloading, postal sorting centers, etc.)
• Scales (dairies, etc.)

Railway uses

• Suspension systems, trams, metros
• Power collectors
• Doors

Aircraft

• Engines (compressor : controlling airflow)
• Doors
• Flaps
• Engine mounts
• Suspension of accessories

Automotive

• Suspensions
• Steering systems
• Bodywork mounts
• Moped suspensions

Aerospace bearings

• Suspension for external boosters
• Engine controls

Miscellaneous

• Amusement park rides
• Safety cut-outs in power stations
• Musical instruments