Rod Ends

AST Bearings is proudly presenting our new certificates for both the NJ and CA locations: AST Bearings’ ISO 9001:2015 Certificates

To learn more about what the ISO 9001 standard is, the differences between the 2015 and 2008 versions, and how AST verifies customer satisfaction: Learn About AST Bearings’ certification to ISO 9001:2015

What is the difference between male and female thread rod ends?

The primary difference lies in the configuration of the integral shank. Male rod ends feature external threads protruding from the housing head, allowing them to screw directly into a female-threaded component or linkage rod. Female rod ends feature internal threads within the shank body, designed to receive a male-threaded rod or stud. Both configurations are available in right-hand and left-hand thread orientations to accommodate precise linkage adjustments.

When should I choose maintenance-free rod ends over types requiring lubrication?

Maintenance-free rod ends feature self-lubricating sliding surface combinations, such as steel-on-PTFE composite material or steel-on-PTFE fabric. They are ideal for applications with high loads in a constant direction, long life requirements, or environments where re-lubrication is difficult or undesirable. Conversely, rod ends requiring maintenance (like steel-on-steel or steel-on-bronze) excel under heavy alternating loads, severe impact, or high-vibration conditions where periodic re-greasing provides optimal wear resistance.

What sliding contact surface combinations are available for AST rod ends?

AST offers four primary sliding contact surface combinations to fit varying operating demands: steel-on-steel, steel-on-bronze, steel-on-PTFE composite material, and steel-on-PTFE fabric. Steel-on-steel and steel-on-bronze options are re-lubricatable and designed for high shock or alternating loads. Steel-on-PTFE combinations provide very low friction and self-lubricating properties for maintenance-free operation.

Are rod ends available in both inch and metric dimensions?

Yes. AST provides over 160 standard rod end configurations offered in both inch and metric dimensional standards. Options include variations in bore size, thread size, thread gender (male or female), and thread direction (right-hand or left-hand).

How do rod ends handle angular misalignment in linkage assemblies?

Rod ends combine an eye-shaped housing head with an integrated spherical plain bearing or inner ring. This design allows for multi-axis rotation and pivoting, accommodating dynamic angular misalignment between connected shafts and linkages while transferring mechanical motion efficiently.