2RS STEEL/STEEL RADIAL BALL JOINTS – GE ES and GE FO Series

GE ES-2RS and GE FO-2RS Steel-on-Steel Radial Ball Joints

Theradial ball-and-socket joints are spherical plain bearings designed to transmit high loads while allowing for oscillation, tilting, and minor misalignment between a shaft and its housing.

Unlike a ball or roller bearing, a radial spherical bearing does not contain any rolling elements. Movement occurs directly between two spherical surfaces in contact.

The models offered in this category use a combination of sliding mechanismssteel-on-steel. They are equipped with seals on both sides to retain the lubricant and limit the entry of dust, moisture, and other contaminants.

The products are sold under the brand nameCredits.

Camagris offers two main product lines:

GE ES-2RS: Compact Standard Series

GE FO-2RS: Reinforced Wide Series

What is a radial ball-and-socket joint ?

A radial ball joint consists of an inner ring with a spherical, convex outer surface and an outer ring with a spherical, concave inner surface.

The two surfaces slide against each other.

This geometry allows the inner ring to tilt relative to the outer ring. The ball joint can thus accommodate the assembly's movements without requiring perfectly rigid alignment between the components.

This feature is particularly useful for:

– mechanical joints ;

– hydraulic cylinders ;

– agricultural equipment ;

– construction equipment ;

– lifting systems ;

– articulated arms ;

– suspensions ;

– material-handling equipment ;

– mechanisms subject to repeated oscillations.

What is the difference between a radial ball joint and a bearing ?

A radial ball joint is aplain bearing.

In a ball or roller bearing, the two rings are separated by rolling elements.

In a steel-on-steel radial ball joint, the spherical surface of the inner ring slides directly against the corresponding surface of the outer ring.

This design is particularly well-suited for relatively slow movements, oscillations, heavy loads, and joints.

It is not intended to automatically replace a conventional bearing operating under continuous high-speed rotation.

GE ES-2RS Series: The Compact Radial Ball Joint

The seriesGE ES-2RS is the standard model in this line.

It combines:

– a steel inner ring ;

– an outer steel ring ;

– a steel-on-steel sliding surface ;

– two gaskets ;

– a system that allows for relubrication ;

– a compact design.

This series is particularly useful when radial and axial dimensions must be kept to a minimum.

Dimensions of GE ES-2RS Ball Joints

GE20 ES-2RS

Inner diameter d:20 mm

Outer diameter D:35 mm

Inner ring width B:16 mm

Outer ring width C:12 mm

GE25 ES-2RS

Inner diameter:25 mm

Outer diameter:42 mm

Inner ring width:20 mm

Outer ring width:16 mm

GE30 ES-2RS

Inner diameter:30 mm

Outer diameter:47 mm

Inner ring width:22 mm

Outer ring width:18 mm

GE35 ES-2RS

Inner diameter:35 mm

Outer diameter:55 mm

Inner ring width:25 mm

Outer ring width:20 mm

GE40 ES-2RS

Inner diameter:40 mm

Outer diameter:62 mm

Inner ring width:28 mm

Outer ring width:22 mm

GE45 ES-2RS

Inner diameter:45 mm

Outer diameter:68 mm

Inner ring width:32 mm

GE50 ES-2RS

Inner diameter:50 mm

Outer diameter:75 mm

Inner ring width:35 mm

Outer ring width:28 mm

GE55 ES-2RS

Inner diameter:55 mm

Outer diameter:85 mm

Inner ring width:40 mm

Outer ring width:32 mm

GE60 ES-2RS

Inner diameter:60 mm

Outer diameter:90 mm

Inner ring width:44 mm

GE70 ES-2RS

Inner diameter:70 mm

Outer diameter:105 mm

Inner ring width:49 mm

GE80 ES-2RS

Inner diameter:80 mm

Outer diameter:120 mm

Inner ring width:55 mm

GE FO-2RS Series: Wide-Series Radial Ball Joints

TheGE FO-2RS use the same steel-on-steel sliding principle but in a significantly wider design.

For the same inner diameter, a GE FO typically has:

– a larger outer diameter ;

– a wider inner ring ;

– a more solid construction ;

– greater load capacity ;

– a potentially greater angle of inclination depending on the size.

This series is therefore particularly useful when loads and stresses are higher.

At SKF, this size family is generally referred to asGEH..ES-2RS, while Schaeffler / INA uses, among other things, the designationGE..FO-2RS-E.

Dimensions of GE FO-2RS Ball Joints

GE20 FO-2RS

Inner diameter:20 mm

Outer diameter:42 mm

Inner ring width:25 mm

SKF Dimensional Equivalents:GEH 20 ES-2RS

GE25 FO-2RS

Inner diameter:25 mm

Outer diameter:47 mm

Inner ring width:28 mm

SKF Correspondence:GEH 25 ES-2RS

GE30 FO-2RS

Inner diameter:30 mm

Outer diameter:55 mm

Inner ring width:32 mm

SKF Correspondence:GEH 30 ES-2RS

GE35 FO-2RS

Inner diameter:35 mm

Outer diameter:62 mm

Inner ring width:35 mm

SKF Correspondence:GEH 35 ES-2RS

GE40 FO-2RS

Inner diameter:40 mm

Outer diameter:68 mm

Inner ring width:40 mm

SKF Correspondence:GEH 40 ES-2RS

GE45 FO-2RS

Inner diameter:45 mm

Outer diameter:75 mm

Inner ring width:43 mm

GE50 FO-2RS

Inner diameter:50 mm

Outer diameter:90 mm

Inner ring width:56 mm

What is the difference between the GE ES-2RS and the GE FO-2RS ?

It is very important not to confuse the two series.

Let's take a 20-mm shaft as an example.

AGE20 ES-2RS measure:

20 x 35 x 16 mm.

AGE20 FO-2RS measure:

20 x 42 x 25 mm.

The bore is the same, but every other part of the ball joint is significantly larger on the FO version.

The same difference exists in other dimensions.

A GE25 ES-2RS measures 25 x 42 x 20 mm, while a GE25 FO-2RS measures 25 x 47 x 28 mm.

A GE40 ES-2RS measures 40 x 62 x 28 mm, while a GE40 FO-2RS measures 40 x 68 x 40 mm.

TV ShowsES and FO are therefore by no means interchangeable based solely on their inner diameter.

How do I choose between a GE ES and a GE FO ?

Choose a GE ES-2RS

The GE ES series is generally a good choice when you're looking for:

– a compact design ;

– a smaller outer diameter ;

– limited width ;

– a standard steel-to-steel ball joint ;

– Replacing an existing GE..ES-2RS part number.

Choosing a GE FO-2RS

The GE FO series is suitable when the installation requires:

– a wider design ;

– the ability to handle heavier loads ;

– a thicker inner ring ;

– a larger outer diameter ;

– Replacement of an INA/Schaeffler GE..FO or SKF GEH ball joint.

What does 2RS stand for ?

The suffix2RS indicates the presence of seals on both sides of the ball joint.

These seals serve several purposes:

– limit the entry of dust ;

– reduce moisture penetration ;

– protect the sliding surfaces ;

– preserve the fat in the kneecap ;

– extend the intervals between lubrication.

However, 2RS does not mean “maintenance-free.”

The steel-on-steel ball joints in this series require proper lubrication and periodic relubrication depending on operating conditions.

Are GE ES-2RS ball joints relubricatable ?

Yes.

The steel-to-steel ball joints in this series are designed to accommodate lubricant.

Depending on the model, grooves and lubrication holes are provided in the bushings to distribute grease to the sliding surface.

This lubrication is important for:

– reduce friction ;

– minimize wear and tear ;

– protect surfaces from corrosion ;

– extend the service life of the ball joint.

Equivalents Among Major Brands – GE ES-2RS Series

The designation varies slightly depending on the manufacturer.

SKF

GE 20 ES-2RS

GE 25 ES-2RS

GE 30 ES-2RS

GE 35 ES-2RS

GE 40 ES-2RS

GE 50 ES-2RS, etc.

INA / Schaeffler

The corresponding current nomenclature is generally:

GE20-DO-2RS-E

GE25-DO-2RS-E

GE30-DO-2RS-E

GE35-DO-2RS-E

GE40-DO-2RS-E

GE50-DO-2RS-E

IKO

The following references are commonly found:

GE20 ES-2RS

GE25 ES-2RS

GE30 ES-2RS

and the corresponding dimensions.

FLURO

The designation may take the following forms, among others:

GE 20 E-2RS

GE 25 E-2RS

GE 30 E-2RS.

LS

The part number GE..ES-2RS is also listed.

Compatibility should always be verified using the complete part number, as materials, clearances, seals, and load capacities may vary by manufacturer.

Compatible models in the GE FO-2RS wide series

For the wide series, the nomenclature varies more widely.

INA / Schaeffler

GE20-FO-2RS-E

GE25-FO-2RS-E

GE30-FO-2RS-E

GE35-FO-2RS-E

GE40-FO-2RS-E, etc.

SKF

SKF uses the designationGEH..ES-2RS.

Thus:

GE20 FO-2RS ≈ SKF GEH 20 ES-2RS

GE25 FO-2RS ≈ SKF GEH 25 ES-2RS

GE30 FO-2RS ≈ SKF GEH 30 ES-2RS

GE35 FO-2RS ≈ SKF GEH 35 ES-2RS

GE40 FO-2RS ≈ SKF GEH 40 ES-2RS.

These are dimensional equivalents within the same family. The exact specifications must be verified before replacement.

What loads can a radial ball joint support ?

Radial ball joints are primarily designed to supporthigh radial loads.

Thanks to their large contact area, they can also withstand certain combined loads that include an axial component.

Actual capacity depends heavily on:

– the diameter of the ball joint ;

– the width of the rings ;

– the material ;

– lubrication ;

– the sliding speed ;

– the angle of oscillation ;

– temperature ;

– whether the load is static, alternating, or dynamic.

Therefore, you should not compare two ball joints based solely on their inner diameter.

Agricultural Applications of Radial Ball Joints

Radial ball joints are used in many agricultural mechanisms where a joint must transmit significant forces.

They can be found, among other places, at:

– lift arms ;

– machine joints ;

– hydraulic cylinders ;

– suspension axles ;

– loader arm ;

– tillage equipment ;

– agricultural balers ;

– harvesting machines ;

– spreaders ;

– agricultural trailers ;

– forestry equipment ;

– material-handling equipment ;

– public works equipment.

They are particularly well-suited for mechanisms that are simultaneously subjected to loads, vibrations, and changes in alignment.

Radial ball joint and hydraulic cylinder

Radial ball joints are very commonly used in cylinder joints.

They allow the cylinder to accommodate small angular variations during its movement without transmitting excessive stress to the rod or the shaft.

To replace a ball joint installed in a hydraulic cylinder, check the following:

– the diameter of the shaft ;

– the outer diameter of the ball joint ;

– the width of the inner ring ;

– the width of the outer ring ;

– the required angle of inclination ;

– the load carried.

What is the difference between a radial ball joint and a ball joint end ?

Aradial ball joint consists solely of the two rings that form the ball joint.

Aball joint incorporates this ball joint into a housing equipped with a threaded rod or a threaded hole.

The fitting therefore allows for direct attachment to a connecting rod, a linkage, or a cylinder.

When the ball joint is mounted directly into a machined bore or a specific housing, a radial ball joint alone is typically used.

What is the difference between a radial ball joint and a self-aligning ball bearing ?

These two products should not be confused with one another.

The GE radial ball joint is aspherical plain bearing without balls or rollers.

A spherical roller bearing, such as a 22208 or a 22310, contains rollers and is designed to ensure continuous rotation.

The radial ball joint is primarily used for articulation and oscillation movements.

How do you measure a radial ball-and-socket joint ?

Three measures are already sufficient to identify the majority of items.

Inner diameter of d

Measure the diameter of the shaft.

Example: A GE25 has a bore diameter of 25 mm.

Outer diameter D

Measure the outer diameter of the outer ring.

It is this designation that makes it possible, in particular, to distinguish an ES series from an FO series.

Width B

Measure the total width of the inner ring.

For example:

GE25 ES-2RS: B = 20 mm

GE25 FO-2RS: B = 28 mm.

It is also helpful to note the outer ring width C.

Is radial play important ?

Yes.

A radial ball joint must have the proper amount of play to allow it to function properly and for a lubricating film to form.

The game may vary depending on:

– the manufacturer ;

– size ;

– execution ;

– the game class.

If an application requires a specific clearance, do not automatically replace the part number with a ball joint that has only the same dimensions.

Installation Tips

Before assembly, clean the following thoroughly:

– the axis ;

– housing ;

– the staves ;

– the shoulders.

Avoid transmitting the mounting force through the sliding surface.

When the outer ring must be pressed into a housing, the force must be applied directly to that ring.

When force is applied to the inner ring, it must be applied only to that ring.

Never strike the surfaces of the ball joint directly with a hammer.

Lubrication and Maintenance

For a steel-to-steel ball joint, lubrication is essential to its service life.

The frequency of lubrication depends, in particular, on:

– the load ;

– the oscillation frequency ;

– the range of motion ;

– temperature ;

– moisture ;

– the presence of dust or mud ;

– the quality of the fat.

An agricultural application exposed to moisture and contaminants may require more frequent relubrication than a clean, protected mechanism.

2RS seals delay the entry of contaminants but do not eliminate the need for periodic inspection of the ball joint.

How can you tell if a ball-and-socket joint is worn out ?

Several symptoms may indicate wear and tear:

– noticeable play in the axle ;

– clicking noises when the load changes ;

– irregular movement ;

– seizure ;

– corrosion ;

– torn seals ;

– contaminated grease ;

– surface deformation.

A ball joint with excessive play or signs of wear on the sliding surfaces must be replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions About Radial Ball Joints

What does GE25 ES-2RS mean ?

GE refers to a radial ball joint.

25 corresponds to an inner diameter of25 mm.

ES refers to the steel-to-steel version of this family.

2RS indicates that there are seals on both sides.

What are the dimensions of a GE20 ES-2RS ?

The GE20 ES-2RS measures:

20 x 35 x 16 mm

with an outer ring width of 12 mm.

What are the dimensions of a GE25 ES-2RS ?

The GE25 ES-2RS measures:

25 x 42 x 20 mm.

What are the dimensions of a GE30 ES-2RS ?

The GE30 ES-2RS measures:

30 x 47 x 22 mm.

What are the dimensions of a GE40 ES-2RS ?

It measures:

40 x 62 x 28 mm.

What is the difference between the GE20 ES-2RS and the GE20 FO-2RS ?

Both have a 20-mm bore.

The GE20 ES-2RS measures20 x 35 x 16 mm.

The GE20 FO-2RS measures20 x 42 x 25 mm.

The FO is therefore significantly larger and broader.

What is the SKF equivalent of a GE20 FO-2RS ?

The corresponding SKF series isGEH 20 ES-2RS.

What is the INA equivalent of a GE20 ES-2RS ?

The current Schaeffler/INA designation is, in particular,GE20-DO-2RS-E.

Is a 2RS ball joint maintenance-free ?

No. For a steel-on-steel ball joint, the seals protect the surfaces and retain the grease, but periodic relubrication is still necessary.

Can a GE FO ball joint be used instead of a GE ES ball joint ?

Not directly.

Even when the bore diameter is the same, the FO has a larger outer diameter and width. The housing must therefore be specifically designed for this series.

Can a radial ball joint rotate continuously ?

It is primarily designed for oscillating, tilting, and relatively slow angular movements. For continuous rotation at high speeds, a bearing is generally a more suitable solution.

Order your radial ball joints from Camagris

Camagris offers a line of radial ball jointsGE ES-2RS and GE FO-2RS covering many common dimensions.

To select the correct part number, first check:

– the inner diameter d ;

– the outer diameter D ;

– the inner ring width B ;

– the outer ring width C ;

– the ES or FO series ;

– the presence of 2RS seals ;

– load and lubrication conditions.

A part with the same inside diameter is not necessarily interchangeable. Comparing the three main dimensionsd × D × B It is therefore an excellent way to check the product before placing an order.