EN 2790:1991

Overview - EN 2790:1991 (CEN)

EN 2790:1991 is a CEN aerospace standard that defines the characteristics, dimensions and load capabilities for adjustable rod ends used on aircraft flight control rods. The standard covers rod ends that combine a self-aligning plain bearing with a self-lubricating liner (EN 2501) and a threaded shank with an engagement depth of 1.5 × thread diameter. These components are specified for service in temperatures from −55 °C to +150 °C and are intended for critical aerospace structural control applications.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Component configuration
  • Adjustable rod end assembly composed of a self-aligning ball/ plain bearing with self-lubricating liner (per EN 2501) and a rod end body with threaded shank.
• Threaded shank engagement
  • Specified engagement length: 1.5 × thread diameter - used to ensure reliable mechanical engagement in flight control linkages.
• Identification and locking features
  • Circumferential groove on the shank to identify engagement depth.
  • Optional longitudinal groove for mechanical locking where required.
• Dimensions and loads
  • Standard provides dimensional data and load ratings for the specified rod-end types (see full standard for tables and limits).
• Operating environment
  • Rated for use across the aerospace temperature band −55 °C to +150 °C.
• Reference
  • Directly references EN 2501 for the self-lubricating liner specification.

Applications and who uses EN 2790

• Primary use: Flight control rods and linkages in aircraft structures where adjustable, self-aligning joints are required.
• Typical users
  • Aerospace design engineers specifying control-system hardware.
  • Manufacturers and suppliers of rod ends and aircraft hardware.
  • Procurement and quality assurance teams verifying compliance for flight-critical components.
  • Maintenance and overhaul organizations selecting replacement rod ends for service.
• Benefits
  • Ensures interchangeability, predictable mechanical performance, and appropriate identification/locking options for flight-critical rod-end assemblies.

Related standards

• EN 2501 - Specification for the self-lubricating liner used in the self-aligning plain bearing.
• Other aerospace series standards covering rod-end variants and materials (see CEN catalogue for related EN aerospace documents).

This summary helps engineers, procurement specialists and suppliers quickly understand the scope and practical use of EN 2790:1991 when specifying or sourcing adjustable rod ends for aerospace flight control applications.