Endlock

Endlock is a term used in mechanical engineering to denote a locking element designed to secure the end of a cylindrical component, preventing axial movement, rotation, or loosening of a connection. It is not a single standardized product, but a category of end-retention devices used in various assemblies.

Common constructions include a clamping collar or end cap that bears against the component surface, often with a set screw, grub screw, or pin to fix the device in place. Some designs use a threaded end with a nut or cap that provides axial retention; others employ a keyed or splined interface combined with an endlock to resist rotation. Materials are typically steel or hardened alloys, with seals or coatings chosen for compatibility with operating conditions.

Applications span drive shafts, spindle ends, linear actuators, and hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders, where maintaining position and alignment under dynamic load is critical. Selection factors include axial and radial loads, operating speed, temperature, corrosion resistance, and maintenance requirements. Endlocks are valued for simplicity, reversibility, and quick assembly or disassembly in serviceable equipment.

Variants include threaded endlocks, clamping endlocks, pinned endlocks, and combinations with seals or dust skirts for end-face retention. Some designs integrate lubrication channels or seals to reduce wear and facilitate longevity in demanding environments. In practice, the term Endlock may appear in catalogs and patents as a descriptive rather than a formal product name, reflecting its functional role rather than a single specification.