Rod ends and Plain Bearings

Rod ends, also known as spherical rod-end bearings, consist of a ball bearing enclosed in a housing with a threaded shank for easy attachment. They are used in linkage systems, steering mechanisms, and suspension components, allowing movement in multiple directions while maintaining strength and stability.

Translink Rod End types include male and female types, maintenance free types as well as heavy-duty types. The male and female rod ends differ based on the internal or external threading. Maintenance free rod ends use PTFE liners to eliminate the need for lubrication. Heavy-duty rod ends are designed for high-load applications in industrial equipment.

Plain bearings, also called bushings, are simple yet durable components that provide low-friction movement between surfaces. Unlike rolling-element bearings, they do not contain rollers or balls but rely on a lubricated surface for smooth operation. Translink plain bearing types include metallic bushings made from bronze, steel or brass; polymer bearings, which are self-lubricating and corrosion-resistant, commonly used in food processing and medical equipment; and spherical plain bearings, used in hydraulic cylinders and suspension systems.

The Translink range of Rod ends and plain bearings are widely used in robotics, industrial machinery and heavy equipment.  Please visit our catalog for further technical information.