Pallonivel

Pallonivel is the Finnish term for a ball joint, a type of spherical bearing that connects a movable link to a frame or another moving part while allowing rotation around multiple axes. In Finnish engineering usage, pallonivel refers to the component commonly known in English as a ball joint, which is used to transmit motion and load while permitting angular movement.

A pallonivel typically consists of a hardened steel ball seated in a matching steel socket, with a stud or trunnion on the ball that attaches to the adjacent component. A protective boot seals the joint and retains lubricant to reduce wear and contamination. Depending on the design, the joint may be mounted as a stud-type assembly or a press-in/bolted variant, and it may include an offset axis or flange to fit specific geometries.

Common applications include automotive suspension and steering systems, where ball joints connect control arms to steering knuckles and accommodate steering input and suspension travel. They are also used in robotics, aerospace, and industrial machinery to provide a compact, multidirectional pivot with reliable load transmission.

Maintenance and wear concerns center on the condition of the joint’s lubricant and seals, and on any play or looseness in the joint. Symptoms of wear include perceptible play, noise, binding, or changes in alignment. Replacement is advised when wear exceeds tolerance, damage to the boot occurs, or lubrication cannot be restored.

See also: ball joint, spherical bearing.