Rod End & Spherical Plain Bearings

ISC Companies and affiliate Adams-ISC are distributors of mechanical power transmission parts including rod end and spherical plain bearings. For more information about the brands we offer and/or pricing, please contact us by phone 763-559-0033, by email [email protected], or by filling out our contact form.

Spherical plain and rod end bearings have a ball that rotates in a race to accommodate a wide range of angular misalignment. They are commonly used in linkages and low-speed applications and consist of a spherical ball made from metallic or non-metallic compounds with a corresponding cylindrical outer ring. They are fitted in a housing bore within a machine or apparatus. These are referred to as spherical plain bearings.

Rod end bearings are generally a metallic or non-metallic stem with a spherical ball mounted in one or both ends. If the stem of the rod is threaded, it is referred to as a male rod end. If the rod is threaded on the inside, it is referred to as a female rod end.

While spherical plain bearings offer misalignment capability in a fixed housing position; rod ends offer ease in mounting and adjustment of position in installations such as mechanisms, linkages, and control rods. Rod ends also provide a compact, lightweight, economical design alternative to a conventional housing installation.

Male Rod End

Female Rod End

Spherical Plain Bearing