EN 4156:2013

Overview

EN 4156:2013 is a European Standard developed by CEN, specifying the characteristics, dimensions, and load capacities of aerospace-grade rod ends. These rod ends feature self-aligning double row ball bearings and threaded shanks in steel, with inner rings and balls made from corrosion-resistant steel. Designed as part of the aerospace series, these rod ends are intended primarily for use with flight control rods and other aerospace structural rods, supporting critical applications within the aerospace industry.

The standard governs adjustable rod ends with either seals or shields, an optional longitudinal groove for locking, and defines performance requirements across a temperature range from –54 °C to 150 °C. Lubrication compatibility includes various very high-pressure greases, ensuring reliable operation under aerospace environmental conditions.

Key Topics

• Design and Construction

  • Rod ends comprise self-aligning double row ball bearings.
  • Threaded shank in steel with corrosion-resistant inner ring and balls.
  • Optional seals or shields for contamination protection.
  • Longitudinal groove options for locking purposes.

• Materials and Surface Treatment

  • Rod ends made from hardened and tempered steels meeting EN 2099 or EN 2135.
  • Inner ring and rolling elements constructed of stainless steels per EN 2030.
  • Outer rod surfaces cadmium plated and chromated for corrosion resistance.
  • Protected with high-quality PTFE or glass-fiber reinforced PTFE seals or corrosion-resistant shields.

• Dimensions and Performance

  • Inch series dimensions standardized with tight tolerances.
  • Static radial and axial load limits defined for safe aerospace operations.
  • Starting torque and clearance values specified.
  • Operating temperature conditions ranging from –54 °C to 150 °C depending on grease type.

• Lubrication Standards

  • Compatibility with very high-pressure greases:
    • Ester type (code A): –73 °C to 121 °C operational range.
    • Synthetic hydrocarbons (code B): –54 °C to 177 °C operational range.
    • Lithium type (code C): –73 °C to 121 °C operational range.
  • Use of specified greases ensures proper performance and longevity in aerospace environments.

• Quality and Compliance

  • Qualification aligned with EN 9133 standards.
  • Marking conforms to EN 2424, allowing traceability and verification.
  • Testing methods harmonized with EN 2067 for load, torque, and seal retention.

Applications

• Flight Control Rods
  These rod ends are ideal for use in flight control systems, where reliability, precision alignment, and corrosion resistance are paramount to maintain flight safety and performance.

• Aerospace Structural Components
  Suitable for various aerospace structural rods requiring adjustability and load-bearing capacity, especially where exposure to temperature extremes and harsh environments occur.

• Actuation Mechanisms
  Used in aerospace actuation linkages that demand self-aligning capabilities to accommodate misalignment without compromising structural integrity.

Related Standards

• EN 2067: Aerospace series - Rod ends with self-aligning ball bearings - Technical specification.
  Governs technical details and testing procedures related to rod ends in aerospace use.

• EN 9133: Aerospace series - Quality management systems - Qualification procedure for aerospace standard parts.
  Sets qualification protocols ensuring components meet aerospace reliability standards.

• EN 2030: Aerospace series - Steel specifications for corrosion-resistant components.
  Defines material characteristics crucial for aerospace-grade rod ends.

• EN 2099 & EN 2135: Aerospace series - Hardened and tempered steels for rod end components.
  Outline material treatments essential for durability and mechanical strength.

• EN 2424: Aerospace series - Marking of aerospace products.
  Establishes marking requirements for traceability.

• ISO 1132-1: Rolling bearings - Tolerances, terms, and definitions relevant to self-aligning ball bearings.
  Supports standardization of bearing dimensions and performance.

Practical Value

EN 4156:2013 ensures that aerospace rod ends possess the reliability, dimensional accuracy, corrosion resistance, and mechanical strength required for critical aerospace applications. Compliance with this standard enables manufacturers and users to guarantee safety, functional integrity, and longevity of components in demanding aerospace environments. Using this standard supports optimal selection, quality assurance, and lifecycle management of rod ends integral to flight control and aerospace structural systems.

By adhering to EN 4156:2013, aerospace engineers and suppliers maintain high safety and quality benchmarks, ensuring compatibility with international aerospace manufacturing and maintenance protocols.