SI Series Rod End Spherical Plain Bearings
SI5TK, SI6TK, SI8TK, SI10TK, SI12TK, SI14T5K, SI16TK, SI18TK, SI20TK, SI22TK, SI25TK, SI30TK, SI35TK rod end spherical plain bearings feature steel/PTFE sliding contact surfaces equivalent to GIKR...PW INA specifications.
Product Overview
The SI...TK series represents self-lubricating rod end spherical plain bearings designed for connecting linkages and transmission components in industrial automation applications.
Construction & Design
These bearings consist of three main components:
- Inner ring (ball) - Hardened bearing steel with hard chrome-plated spherical surface
- Self-lubricating composite liner - PTFE/copper alloy for maintenance-free operation
- Rod end housing - Carbon steel or stainless steel with internal thread
Performance Advantages
- Maintenance-free operation - Self-lubricating design eliminates frequent grease re-lubrication
- High load capacity - Withstands significant radial loads and certain axial loads
- Excellent misalignment compensation - Allows angular displacement up to ±13° to ±16°
- Ideal for light-load, low-speed applications - Perfect for environments where maintenance is difficult or lubricant contamination is unacceptable
Technical Specifications
| Category |
Details |
| Design |
Internally Threaded Rod End: Housing features ISO Metric Thread (model number indicates thread size)
Self-Lubricating Liner: PTFE or sintered bronze composite material |
| Materials & Finish |
Inner Ring: GCr15 bearing steel, hard chrome-plated
Outer Housing: Carbon steel (zinc-plated) or stainless steel (440C/304)
Sealing: Optional dust covers or seals available |
| Performance Specifications |
Angular Misalignment: 13° to 16° swing angle
Load Ratings: Dynamic and static ratings increase with model size (SI10TK: 14.5 kN dynamic, 18 kN static)
Operating Temperature: -30°C to +80°C standard (wider range with special materials) |
Applications
SI...TK series bearings are widely used in mechanical systems requiring oscillation, rotation, or linkage:
- Industrial Automation: Robotic arm joints, end-effector connections, conveyor belt tensioners
- Pneumatics & Hydraulics: Cylinder piston rod connections, hydraulic cylinder clevis ends, control valve linkages
- Automotive Industry: Throttle cables, clutch pedal linkages, steering tie rods
- Aerospace: Flight control systems, door hinges
- General Machinery: Packaging machines, textile machinery, printing presses, measuring instruments
- Special Environments: Food processing machinery, medical equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between SI...TK and SI...T/K?
SI...TK refers to maintenance-free, self-lubricating versions with composite liners. SI...T/K (or SI...ES) typically denotes versions with grease fittings for periodic re-lubrication. The "K" in TK indicates the composite liner material.
Q: What is the main advantage of the self-lubricating design?
The primary advantage is maintenance-free operation. This eliminates the need for lubrication systems, reduces contamination risk (important in food, medical, and cleanroom applications), and simplifies design and maintenance schedules.
Q: What are the limitations of SI...TK bearings?
- Speed: Suitable for low to moderate speeds or oscillating movements only
- Load: Not designed for very high continuous axial loads or impact loads
- Temperature: Standard PTFE liners have lower maximum operating temperatures (~+80°C to +120°C)
Q: How do I select the right model (e.g., SI8TK, SI12TK)?
Selection is based on:
- Thread Size: Match internal thread (M8, M10, M12) to your connecting bolt/rod
- Load Requirements: Ensure bearing ratings exceed application loads with safety factor
- Environmental Conditions: Choose appropriate materials and sealing options
- Motion Type: Confirm required angular misalignment falls within specifications
Q: Can SI...TK bearings be used in underwater or high-humidity environments?
Standard carbon steel versions with zinc plating offer limited corrosion resistance. For such environments, stainless steel versions (SI..TK-2RS/SS) are strongly recommended. Verify specific corrosion resistance grades and check if seals are suitable for fluid immersion.
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