JFK maintenance-free rod ends
JFK rod ends
- Self-lubricating PTFE coating
- No regular maintenance
- Male or female threaded shank
JFK maintenance-free rod ends are articulated joints featuring the same rod-to-spherical-head configuration as the relubricatable versions, but with a spherical bearing seat lined with a PTFE-based self-lubricating composite material instead of a grease fitting. The lining eliminates the need for periodic relubrication while maintaining a low coefficient of friction throughout the component’s service life.
This solution is particularly suitable for applications where access for periodic relubrication is difficult, in environments where grease may attract contaminants, or simply when the planned maintenance workload of the system needs to be reduced. It is suitable for normal operating conditions, including unidirectional or limited alternating loads and slow movements, with small to medium oscillation angles. Available with male or female threaded shank to accommodate different mounting configurations.
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Versions
How to choose the right rod end
Maintenance-free rod ends with male threaded shank
The shank terminates in an external thread for direct screwing into a threaded hole in the component to be connected. Available with right-hand or left-hand threads for use in adjustable tie rods with double-ended connections. Series: JMT.
Maintenance-free rod ends with female threaded shank
The shank features an internal threaded hole for mounting onto a threaded stud or through-bolt of the component to be connected. This solution is suitable when the connecting component is already provided with an external thread. Series: JFT.
Performances
Design and performance features
Spherical bearing seat lined with a PTFE-based self-lubricating composite material, eliminating the need for periodic relubrication.
Angular misalignment compensation
The spherical head housed in the lined seat allows rotation about the shank axis and angular oscillation to accommodate misalignment between the connected components.
Lubrication
The PTFE-based composite coating eliminates the need for periodic relubrication, maintaining low friction throughout the component’s service life.
No regular maintenance required
The absence of a grease nipple and the self-lubricating housing eliminate the need for the periodic maintenance required for relubricable versions.
Hardened steel with a PTFE-coated housing
Shank and spherical head made of hardened steel, with a spherical bearing seat lined with a PTFE composite material to ensure low friction and wear resistance without lubrication. The lining consists of a metal mesh and PTFE applied between the spherical inner ring and the rod end body, creating a fully self-lubricating interface that ensures stable performance and long service life.
Suitable for environments where grease is not recommended.
Suitable for applications where access for periodic relubrication is difficult or where grease may attract dust and contaminants to the spherical bearing housing.
Mounting
Installation of maintenance-free rod ends
Installation is carried out by screwing the shank into the connecting element, applying the specified tightening torque for the thread. No lubrication is required, either initially or periodically.
Mounting methods
- Screwing and securing the shankScrew the shank into the connecting element until fully seated, then secure it with a locknut or equivalent locking system to prevent loosening under vibration.
- Checking the spherical head-to-seat clearanceCheck that there is no excessive clearance between the spherical head and the lined seat after installation, as the PTFE lining is not adjustable like grease-based preload.
Technical data
- Thread
- Right-hand or left-hand metric, in accordance with DIN 648 / ISO 12240-4
- Locknut tightening torque
- According to the thread diameter; see the dimensional table
- Operating temperature
- –50°C / +150°C (PTFE coating)
Applications
Applications
Components and application support for every industrial environment.
Industrial automation
Control rods in systems with difficult access for maintenance, where eliminating periodic relubrication helps reduce machine downtime.
Food and pharmaceuticals
Applications where grease is unsuitable due to hygiene requirements or where lubricant contamination must be avoided.Automotive and motorsport
Control and connecting rods where reduced maintenance requirements and the absence of grease provide specific advantages.
Construction Equipment
Heavy-duty applications with difficult access to grease points, where the maintenance-free solution reduces scheduled maintenance interventions.
Agriculture
Reliable components for heavy loads, dirt, moisture and reduced maintenance in agricultural machinery.
Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders
Bushings, spherical plain bearings and seals for precise guidance of rods and joints, even under load.
Renewable Energy
Bearings and motion systems for wind power, solar installations and long-lasting energy technologies.Technical documents
Contacts
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