The words Heim Joints are synonymous with Rod Ends since Lewis Heim invented them and founded the Heim Bearing Company, currently a subsidiary of RBC Bearing Company. Rod Ends are spherical plain bearings mounted in a housing with a connected rod. Rod ends are commonly used in linkages and are very easy to mount and install. They are commonly used in agriculture, lawn and garden, ground power, material handling, fluid power and in automotive racing and standard vehicles.
RBC Heim bearings is the leader and offers the largest selection of rod end types. The vast product range for RBC Heim includes Rod Ends having brass inserts in standard and higher capacity and precision designs. Heim bearings is the leader in offering the two piece, self lubricating with Teflon® liners. RBC Heim rod ends offer low friction and misalignment features along with a variety of coatings and material types available. Rod ends can be ordered with lubrication fittings, left or right hand threads and keyways.
Pacific International Bearing offers RBC Heim Rod ends in both metric and inch series that can be purchased on our online store.
Functionality and Working Principles
The ball, housed within the race, provides a low-friction contact surface, enabling rotational movement with minimal resistance. The working angle, represented by the maximum angular range, determines the extent to which the rod end can accommodate misalignment and dynamic movements.
This angle can be calculated using the formula:
- θ = tan^(-1)(d / D),
- where θ is the working angle,
- d is the diameter of the ball,
- D is the diameter of the race.
The functionality of rod ends is influenced by proper lubrication or the use of liners. Factors such as viscosity, additives, and temperature stability must be considered when selecting the appropriate lubricant. Furthermore, advancements in lubrication techniques, such as self-lubricating rod ends, have emerged, eliminating the need for frequent maintenance and lubricant replenishment.
The versatility of rod ends is demonstrated by the wide range of applications across various industries. In automotive systems, rod ends are employed in steering linkages, suspension components, and throttle systems, where precise articulation and load transmission are critical.
In aerospace applications RBC rod ends are utilized in control surfaces, landing gear assemblies, and actuation systems, requiring robust and reliable components that can withstand extreme operating conditions and stringent performance requirements. Additionally, industrial machinery, marine equipment, agricultural machinery, and construction equipment all benefit from rod ends in various applications where durability, load capacity, and flexibility are essential.
Pacific International Bearing stocks and distributes RBC Rod End Bearings meeting Mil Spec Standards. RBC manufactures a line of Mil Spec specialty and custom ball bearing rod end anti-friction bearings. RBC’s double row, self-aligning bearings accommodate various application’s low torque, high load, and misalignment needs. RBC Mil Spec Rod Ends conform to SAE-AS6039, formerly MIL-B-6039.
RBC’s double row self-aligning rod ends have inner rings and balls made from thru-hardened 52100 or 440C stainless to accommodate corrosion resistance needs. These bearings are lubricated 80 to 100% fill in compliance with MIL-PRF-81322, MIL-PRF-23827, and Boeing’s BMS3-33 specifications. RBC Ball bearing rod ends are manufactured with PTFE seals bonded to corrosion resistant caps.
Final thoughts
The versatility of rod ends makes them useful in many applications such as automotive, industrial, aerospace, marine, agricultural, and construction equipment. Applications include steering linkages, suspension systems, robotics, manufacturing equipment, control surfaces, rudder systems, and hydraulic cylinders.
Ongoing Rod End bearing research and material advancements hold promising prospects for future improvements. Most Rod End Bearing manufacturers conduct ongoing research focusing on improving materials, lubricity, and design, aiming to enhance performance, durability, and sustainability.
Still have a question or need to discuss something? Contact us to get help.