AUTOMATION & ROBOTICS W


hether in automated warehouses, high-speed sortation centres, or production facilities, operators are under constant pressure to move goods faster, more


efficiently and with minimal disruption. While much attention is placed on robotics,


controls and digitalisation, the mechanical components that enable controlled movement remain fundamental. Among them, rod ends play a critical, if often overlooked, role in ensuring smooth, precise and reliable motion across handling systems.


ENABLING CONTROLLED MOVEMENT IN DYNAMIC APPLICATIONS Rod ends are mechanical components designed to connect two parts of a system while allowing rotational and oscillating movement. This multi- directional capability makes them particularly suited to material handling applications, where misalignment, load variations and constant motion are common. Across intralogistics environments, rod ends


are used in conveyor systems, lifting platforms, forklift mechanisms, automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) and sortation equipment. In each of these applications, they help maintain structural integrity while allowing   the demands placed on these components continue to grow.


MEETING THE DEMANDS OF MODERN HANDLING ENVIRONMENTS Material handling is a diverse sector, serving industries from manufacturing and logistics to food processing and distribution. As a result, components must operate reliably under a wide range of conditions, including high cycle rates,  contaminants. One of the key requirements in today’s


market is reduced maintenance. Downtime in automated environments can be costly, and many operators are seeking self-lubricating solutions that minimise the need for servicing while maintaining consistent performance over time.


Adaptability is equally important. Equipment designs may require different sizes, materials, bending angles or load capacities. Suppliers must, therefore, be able to offer both a comprehensive range of standard products and the engineering capability to customise solutions when required.


At the same time, UK manufacturers and


system integrators are facing increasing pressure to deliver projects quickly. Shorter lead times and readily available components are critical to keeping installations on schedule.


THE ADVANTAGES ROD ENDS DELIVER   performance: • Precise, multidirectional movement, accommodating misalignment and dynamic motion.


ROD ENDS: SUPPORTING RELIABILITY IN MATERIAL HANDLING SYSTEMS


By Roberto Violati, Sales Director Rotational BU, Rollon


In the UK’s fast-moving material handling sector, performance is measured in uptime


• Durability and long service life, even in demanding operating conditions.


• Reduced maintenance requirements, helping minimise downtime and operating costs.


These characteristics make rod ends an


important design consideration in systems where reliability and continuity of operation are paramount.


A BROAD PORTFOLIO FOR VARIED APPLICATIONS The Rollon, by Timken ecosystem, includes one     technology. Premium line rod ends with spherical or


roller bearings are designed to handle heavy loads and high speeds, making them suitable for intensive duty cycles. The Classic line, based on injected polymer technology, enables reliable performance in contaminated environments where dirt or debris may be present. Stainless- steel variants are available for applications requiring enhanced corrosion resistance. For installations where lubrication is


impractical, the Tescubal line features a metal- on-metal self-lubricating system, providing  periods.


In addition to standard ISO 12240-compliant products, customisation options are available


20 APRIL 2026 | FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS


 height and angular requirements. Engineering support can include  the inner diameter of the ball to achieve different  All products undergo dedicated testing to ensure they can withstand the stresses typical of material handling applications. “As UK material handling systems become


faster, more automated and increasingly  seeing that demand is growing for rod ends that combine long service life with low-maintenance performance,” says Roberto. 


focused on supporting customers through tools such as the myRollon digital platform, which helps engineers identify compatible solutions and access technical resources more quickly,  delivery.”


“Rod ends may be small in size, but their impact on alignment, motion control   maintenance performance, they help ensure that handling systems continue to operate smoothly, supporting productivity across a wide range of UK industries.”


Rollon www.my.rollon.com/uk


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