Spherical Plain Bearings and Rod Ends

Spherical Plain Bearings

Spherical Plain Bearings utilize inner & outer rings with spherical sliding surfaces and can accommodate heavy radial loads & bi-directional axial loads at the same time. Solve produces a wide variety of designs and materials to satisfy diverse demands, including those in automation, construction, mining, transportation, off-highway equipment, farming, and machine tool applications.

Standard designs utilize carbon chromium steel on steel which is hardened, phosphated and treated with Molybdenum Disulfide (MoS2 ) to reduce friction. Most designs can be re-lubricated through annular grooves & lubrication holes in the outer rings. Bearings are also available in self lubricating designs utilizing PTFE lined races offering a maintenance free solution with lower friction.

Common Spherical Plain Bearing Applications

Dump Trucks

Hinge Pin between truck bed & frame - GEZ Series
Mobile Hydraulic Cylinders: Clevis on one or both ends of cylinder - GE/GEZ Series

Front End Loaders

Clevis/Shovel Connection - GEZ Series
Articulated Joint - GEZ Series
Mobile Hydraulic Cylinders: Clevis on one or both ends of cylinder - GE/GEZ Series

Logging Machinery

King Pin Assemblies - GAZ SA
Tie Rod - GEG or GEM (extended inner ring eliminates need for spacers)

Shuttle Cars (Mining)

GAZ SA angular contact

Windmills

GAZ Series angular contact

Forklifts

Steering Axel, Drag Link & King Pin on steering assemblies - GE/GEZ Series
Tilt Cylinders guiding the forward/backward movement of the mast - GEZ Series

Textile Industry Extractors

Suspension rods (misalignment) - GE Series Overhead Carrier
Eyebolt - GEZ & GAZ SA angular contact

Chain Conveyor

Chain Link top plates – GEZ
Chain Link anchor plates (thrust loads) - GAZ Series

Learn More About Solve’s Spherical Plain Bearing Solutions

TRITAN Spherical Plain Bearings

PTI Spherical Plain Bearings

Rod End Bearings

Rod Ends are a mechanical articulating joint that connects a rod or shaft to a housing or other component. They consist of a spherical plain bearing or ball swivel joint mounted within a housing, typically with an integral threaded shank or stud for attachment to the mating component.

Rod ends are available in various sizes, materials, and configurations to suit different load capacities, operating conditions, and mounting requirements. They offer flexibility in design and assembly, allowing for precise positioning and movement in mechanical systems. Additionally, many rod ends are designed for easy maintenance including maintenance-free options, as well as corrosion resistant designs constructed of stainless steel

The primary purpose of a rod end is to allow for angular movement and rotation between two connected components while transmitting mechanical loads. Rod ends are commonly used in various applications where precise movement, flexibility, and load-bearing capabilities are required.