Industry News - Blog

Tray Tables and Foldable Work Surface

Reell — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:52:24 GMT

Enhance the passenger experience throughout aircraft, bus & rail interiors with innovative tray table and worksurface designs. Incorporating friction into the pivot point of tray tables and worksurfaces allows panels to be held in any position, eliminates loose feel & noise, and reduces accidental opening or closing during travel. Tray tables are one of the highest frequency touch points for passengers during travel. If end-user perception of quality is important to your brand, then let Reell’s smooth-premium feel motion elevate table functionality and passenger comfort.

Fold Down Tables

Reell’s TI-300 Series Torque Inserts provide a hidden hinge for tables that rotate into position. Designed to be press-fit into a variety of materials, the quick and easy installation eliminates the need for additional mounting hardware and improves overall aesthetics.

Bi-Fold Tables

Reell’s DX-100 Dual Axis Hinge creates an integrated pivot point for bi-fold tables by utilizing two parallel shafts within a sleek elegant housing. Reell’s technology provides the highest torque density within the smallest diameter pivot point. At only 8mm thick, this friction hinge allows engineers to design folding tables with extremely thin panels that maximize the workspace for passengers, while still storing safely within the confined space of arm rests and seat backs.

Deployable Table Arms

The HTH60 Hollow Shaft Friction Hinge eliminates clunky mechanisms and enables the seamless deployment of in-arm tray tables. With 360° rotation capability and unique mounting design from one side, the HTH60 sets a new benchmark for easy integration and serviceability. The high torque density maintains precise positioning while the smooth rotational operation enhances passenger perception of quality and sophistication. The 18mm wire pass-through provides easy passage of wires and connections within the axis of rotation, effectively concealing wires for personal device charging and streamlining the overall assembly process.

Cabin Doors and Pontoon Gates | Reell Precision Manufacturing

Reell Precision Manufacturing — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:40:35 GMT

Improve boater safety by incorporating friction into cabin door hinges and pontoon gates. Mitigate the risk of violent door or gate movements due to latch failures, rough waters, or accidental misuse by passengers. A premium boating experience goes beyond just functionality. Introducing a pinch of torque into pivot points will eliminate free play and rattling, providing a more luxurious experience and premium feel as boaters open and close cabin doors and gates.

Reell’s PHCS and PHL friction hinges are fully sealed and provide reliable movement in demanding marine applications. The PHCS stainless steel construction ensures exceptional resistance to corrosion, making it an ideal solution for applications that demand uncompromising performance. We understand the importance of cohesive design, especially when it comes to marine hardware. Ask us about custom finishes on our PHL friction hinge to ensure that your hardware complements your painted and anodized railings.

Learn More

Reell offers a diverse selection of friction hinge configurations and hidden pivot points for marine applications. Our comprehensive product portfolio ensures that engineers have the flexibility to choose the perfect solution for their specific design needs. Whether it's achieving optimal adjustability, enhancing durability, or seamlessly integrating within the assembly, Reell's torque hinges and inserts provide reliable performance and versatility.

View All Friction Hinges

Deck Hatches, Access Panels & Livewell Covers | Reell

Reell Precision Manufacturing — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:38:27 GMT

Designed to hold deck hatches, access panels, and livewell covers open at any angle. Reell friction hinges are engineered to enhance the boating experience by allowing access to gear and fishing equipment with both hands, ensuring a hassle-free experience on the water. Minimize maintenance issues and field failures commonly associated with gas struts and friction-disc style hinges. Reell’s patented torque technology offers a dependable solution that lasts.

Reell PHCS Stainless Steel Friction Hinge construction ensures exceptional resistance to corrosion, making it an ideal solution for Marine applications that demand uncompromising performance. Boat owners feel the difference of Reell’s smooth premium feel motion as hatches, access panels, and baitwell covers position precisely, enhancing end-user perception of brand quality and luxury.

Portlight and Porthole Windows | Reell Precision Manufacturing

Reell Precision Manufacturing — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:36:17 GMT

Elevate design aesthetics of Portlight & Porthole Windows by eliminating traditional stays or gas struts. Reell fiction hinges allow windows to stay open at any angle without the need for additional mechanisms. Reell solutions provide an exceptional high cycle life, providing a long-lasting, maintenance-free experience for boat owners.

Reell’s PHCS Friction Hinge offers a wide range of torque levels to accommodate a variety of porthole window weights and sizes. The stainless steel construction ensures exceptional resistance to corrosion in harsh marine environments.

Reell's torque inserts offer a versatile solution when conventional hinge con figurations don't align with porthole installations. Engineers gain the flexibility to design custom friction hinges for diverse porthole applications, providing unmatched adaptability and functionality. Designed for simplicity, the TI-100 Series Torque Inserts allow for a hassle-free press-fit installation, simplifying the integration process without compromising on performance.

When seamless integration and reduced installation steps are desired, the TI-200 Series Torque Inserts offers an over moldable design. These inserts also feature differential torque, which provides 100% of the specified torque in one direction and 60% of the specified torque in the opposite.  This makes it ideal for porthole windows that open vertically, where gravity is acting upon the positioned window panel.

Friction Hinge Basics | Reell Precision Manufacturing

Reell Precision Manufacturing — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:34:00 GMT

What Is a Friction Hinge?

Friction hinges, sometimes called torque or position hinges, are specially designed using resistance to control the motion of pivoting objects. Friction hinges are used to hold doors, panels, lids and screens solidly in position at any given angle, as well as determining the force required to move them.

To better conceptualize what a friction hinge is, think about the pivoting motion of laptop screens — one of the most common friction hinge applications in everyday life.

How Do Friction Hinges Work?

Unlike ordinary hinges, friction hinges are designed to provide rotational resistance. In order to achieve this, a special friction mechanism is used inside the hinge which restrains the hinge’s pivoting motion, ensuring a specific amount of force is required to open or close the object.

To suit a variety of applications, friction hinges are available in many forms, including:

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How Much Weight Can a Friction Hinge Hold?

Friction hinges can be made from a number of different materials, helping to determine their load-bearing capacity. However, it’s important to first focus on torque, not materials.

The torque, or rotational resistance of a friction hinge determines how it will function in an application, providing a smooth, controlled motion, while also holding components solidly in their desired position. The amount of torque needed from a friction hinge depends on several factors, such as:

The weight of the object being held
The distance between the axis of rotation and center of gravity
The angle of the object relative to parallel

Reell's largest hinges can hold up to 11.3 N-m each, or 22.6 N-m for per pair. There is no “standard” weight this translates to, as weight is only one of the factors determining the necessary torque for your application.

For example, consider two different scenarios when holding a lid at 20° above parallel using two friction hinges. In each case, consider the weight of the lid evenly distributed so the center of gravity is exactly in the center and the lid has 2 hinges:

To calculate your torque and to find the right hinge for your application, check out our Hinge Selection Guide!

Common Materials Used for Friction Hinges

Friction hinges are available in a variety of materials. The right material for your needs depends on the application requirements. Metal friction hinges may provide the strength needed, or nylon options may be needed for weight conscious applications. Every material has its own set of properties, offering unique benefits.

Zinc friction hinges provide a cost effective solution with a good balance of strength and design flexibility. For improved visual appearance or chemical resistance, zinc friction hinges can be painted or coated.

Stainless steel friction hinges are strong, durable, and resistant to corrosion and oxidation. Many people turn to stainless steel friction hinges for outdoor use, where there is the possibility of exposure to moisture, salt, UV light and other harsh elements.

Aluminum friction hinges are also resistant to corrosion and oxidation, much like stainless steel, but have a much higher strength-to-weight ratio. This makes aluminum friction hinges ideal for reducing weight without sacrificing durability.

Glass-filled nylon friction hinges offer lower cost and greater versatility than metal hinges. These hinges provide an aesthetically pleasing and economical option for applications where weight is important and the strength of metal may not be required. Nylon can be used in traditional hinges, specially designed monitor mounts, and more.

How Long Do Friction Hinges Typically Last?

Friction hinge cycle life determines how long until the product fails to hold position as intended. Failure can lead to falling lids and potential injury. Some friction hinges last longer than others so look for products with rigorous testing and qualification. Lower priced products may last a few hundred cycles while some solutions may perform acceptably for thousands of cycles in various environments. In comparison, Reell friction hinges are engineered with patented ReellTorq® clip technology, providing consistent long-life, zero-adjustment performance of up to 50,000 cycles.

Common Friction Hinge Applications

Engineers use friction hinges where ever they need a pivoting motion or secure positioning. This includes laptop screens, equipment lids, furniture, monitor adjustment, self serve kiosks, lighting and medical devices.

Friction hinges are common in the transportation industry, used in airplane and bus headrests, tray tables and compartments, automobile center consoles, in floor storage, or adjustable mirrors and screens.

Choose the Right Friction Hinge

When selecting a friction hinge, consider a multitude of factors — including all the requirements of your application, along with the conditions it will be subjected to. These considerations include:

Weight, load and size requirements
Hinge location and angle
Orientation and rotational axis
Life cycle requirements
Environmental conditions and chemical exposure
Aesthetics and design factors

Can You Design Your Own Friction Hinge?

At Reell, it’s easy to connect with engineers to start designing a custom friction hinge. Fill out the contact form or view existing Reell hinge solutions to see if any existing product might fulfill your needs.

All Reell Products | Reell Precision Manufacturing

Reell Precision Manufacturing — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:31:37 GMT

MOLDED NYLON HINGES	FLAG HINGES	TORQUE INSERTS	CLUTCHES
MH10	RT Series	TI-100 Series	EC15
MH12	RT50	TI-120	EC20 CBLL
MH13	RT70	TI-130	EC25LL
MH14	RT100	TI-140	EC30LL
MH15	RT120	TI-150	EC30XP
MH18	PHA 8mm	TI-160	EC75LL
	PHB	TI-200 Series
DOOR HINGES	PHK	TI-220	SPHERICAL JOINTS
PH35	PHT	TI-240	SJ Series
PHC		TI-300 Series	SJ-200
PHCA	MULTI-AXIS HINGES	TI-320	SJ-300
PHCS	DX100	TI-330	SJ-500
PHL		TI-340
	HOLLOW SHAFT HINGES	TI-360	MONITOR MOUNTS
	HTH60	TI-C5M	vMX
			vTilt

Headrest Hinge Manufacturer | Reell Manufacturing

Reell — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:19:10 GMT

Lightweight and long-lasting, Reell friction hinges are popular among many of the world’s most prestigious automotive and airline manufacturers for use in headrests. Our friction hinges allow headrests to have a premium-feel experience, made with lightweight, premium materials to improve the performance and economy of automotive and airline seating.

Reell series TI-200 and PHCA hinges are durable and built to last up to 10,000-50,000 cycles, depending on which is used. The TI-200 series features Reell's patented ReellTorq® technology, ensuring smooth, long-life position control without adjustment.

PHCA Hinges

Reell's lightweight PHCA aluminum friction hinge is less than half the weight of equivalent zinc or steel hinges, coming in at 19.5 grams. This feature makes it a perfect hinge type for aircraft, vehicle and other transportation headrest applications where a surface mount hinge is bolted or riveted to a metal or rigid internal substructure and where weight is critical in product design. With a rated life of 50,000 cycles, the PHCA will last for years of heavy use in transportation environments, providing reliable performance over the long term.

TI-220 Hinges

Reell’s TI-220 hinges are designed to be plastic over-molded, with available torques ranging from 1.5-3.5 N-m. Differential torque provides 100% of the specified torque in one direction and 60% of the specified torque in the opposite, making it an ideal solution for vertical positioning applications — like headrests — where gravity acts on the positioned object. Lightweight (19.5 grams) and durable, TI-220 hinges are an excellent choice for plastic-molded headrest applications.

TI-240 Hinges

Like the TI-220 series, Reell’s TI-240 hinges are designed to be plastic over-molded, with available torques ranging from 12.0-8.0 N-m. Differential torque provides 100% of the specified torque in one direction and 60% of the specified torque in the opposite, making it ideal for vertical positioning applications — like headrests — where gravity acts on the positioned object. At a durable, but still lightweight 44 grams, Reell’s TI-240 hinges are great for a variety of automotive headrest applications.

HOW TO GET HEADREST HINGES FROM REELL

Choose from two ways to start a hinge project:

Pick the PHCA or TI-200 series hinge that fits your headrest needs. We can modify existing designs to make them perfect for your application.
Thinking custom is your best bet? If our designs don’t meet your needs, reach out to our engineering experts with the geometry and requirements for your headrest design and we’ll design a solution to match.

If you aren’t sure what your transportation application requires or want help deciding which headrest friction hinge suits your needs, submit an Engineering Application Review to share facts about your application’s desired performance, fit and function. A Reell engineer will review your information to provide you with a recommendation of how we can help. Contact our team to discuss our capabilities.

Preferred by Automotive, Aircraft, Bus and Rail Manufacturers Worldwide

Reell is the designer and manufacturer of choice for a variety of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket companies in need of hinges. The friction hinges we manufacture for automotive headrests are designed by industry experts at our cutting-edge St. Paul, Minnesota plant, where we produce millions of hinges annually.

Since 1970, when our company was founded, Reell has stayed ahead of the competition by providing innovative products and services that always meet or exceed customer expectations. With the industry’s most experienced engineering team and the world’s most precisely controlled torque technology, we can always offer an ideal solution across industries for a wide range of applications.

Hidden Lid & Hidden Console Hinge Manufacturer | Reell

Reell Precision Manufacturing — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:18:07 GMT

Reell offers strong, durable hidden lid and hidden console friction hinges that can be used to provide smooth motion and infinite positioning in an automobile’s storage bins or center console. With how Reell hinges are uniquely installed, they are truly out of sight in the final assembly, improving the aesthetic of storage bins and consoles.

With clip torque technology that holds lids in position, get consistent, long-life performance of up to 50,000 adjustments from Reell hidden lid console hinges — without having to worry about replacements or repairs. Hidden hinges will hold lids solidly in any position without external support, and can be opened or closed with the touch of a hand. Center console hinges provide a premium feel with improved performance — at a price cheaper than metal hinge systems.

HOW TO GET HIDDEN LID AND HIDDEN CONSOLE HINGES FROM REELL

Reell offers two ways to start a hinge project:

Choose an existing product. Reell TI-100 and TI-200 Series torque inserts are preferred by a variety of automotive manufacturers for console hinges. These torque inserts replace screws, springs and sheet metal with a lightweight solution that gives a great feel while saving on assembly labor and component cost. The MH-18 molded nylon hinge is a popular choice for applications requiring hidden lids.
Want custom? If you don’t see what you need, let us know, including the geometry and the application, and we’ll get back to you with a solution that meets your requirements.

Not sure what your application requires or need help determining which hidden lid or hidden console friction hinge suits your needs? Submit an Engineering Application Review to share the facts about desired performance, fit and function. A Reell engineer will review your information and quickly get back to you with a recommendation of how we can help. Contact our team to learn more about our capabilities.

Premium Strength and Durability Since 1970

Reell is the designer and manufacturer of choice for many Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket companies in need of hinges for their applications. Our hidden lid and hidden console friction hinges are designed by Reell engineers at our cutting edge plant in St. Paul, Minnesota, and our products can be found worldwide. Reell manufactures millions of hinges annually, and can handle a range of needs for any automobile manufacturer.

Customers are our lifeblood, which means our products and services must always meet or exceed customer expectations. Reell has set the standard for quality and innovation throughout the hinge design and manufacturing industry since its founding in 1970. With the industry’s most experienced engineering team and the world’s most precisely controlled torque technology, Reell is able to provide a perfect solution for customer applications across industries — every time.

A Better Solution For Heavy Duty Lock In Place Hinges | Reell

Reell Precision Manufacturing — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:16:38 GMT

The Preferred Alternative to Hinges That Lock in Place

From our cutting-edge manufacturing facility in Minnesota, Reell engineers design and produce hinges that are a superior alternative to locking hinges, as they hold an infinite number of positions. As the designer and manufacturer of choice for a range of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket companies, our alternative to heavy duty hinges that lock in place are often the preferred solution for applications since they are adjustable without loosening a locking mechanism.

Hinges already in production may be suitable alternatives to hinges that lock in place, providing you with the desired functionality for your application. Or, if you'd like a custom solution, tell us about your application; just facts about performance needs, fit and function. Knowing the desired movement and purpose of your hinge is required to help our team identify the solution you require. After reviewing your information, a Reell engineer will contact you within 24 hours with an honest assessment of how Reell can provide you with a superior alternative for a hinge that locks in place.

HOW TO GET REELL HINGES THAT LOCK IN PLACE

There's two ways to start a hinge project with Reell:

Pick a hinge from the catalog. Explore the catalog to see if you can spot your desired hinge. If you want more ideas, we have a wider selection of friction hinges or torque inserts that may be suitable for your application.
Go custom. If you can't spot what you want, share your requirements, including the geometry and the application, and we'll take it from there.

Not sure what your application requires or need help determining which hinge is best for your part? Submit an Engineering Application Review to let us know about your application. Tell us the facts about performance, fit and function you require. One of our engineers will review the information and we will get back to you within 24 hours with a determination of how we can help. Contact our team now.

INDUSTRY-LEADING INNOVATION: 50 YEARS OF DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING EXPERIENCE

Reell has been setting the standard for quality and innovation across the hinge design and manufacturing industry since 1970. With the world's most precisely controlled torque technology, combined with the industry's most experienced engineering team, Reell is able to provide a perfect product fit for customer applications.

Alternatives to Hinges That Lock in Place for All Industries

Our five decades of experience designing and manufacturing hinges extends to the following industries:

Automotive & Transportation

Cargo and Compartment Lids
Instrument Panel and Dashboard
Seats, Headrests and Armrests
Interior Hinges for Center Consoles

Commercial & Industrial

Architectural Lighting
Office Furniture & Equipment
Table & Screen Positioning Across Industries
Point of Sale Devices
And many, many more

Ready to start? View our friction hinges or browse markets we serve.
If you would like to work with Reell, submit an Engineering Application Review or contact us. An engineer will review your application to determine your best alternative to heavy duty hinges that lock in place. Within 24 hours of reviewing your application, we will contact you regarding next steps.

Submit an Engineering Application Review Now

Learn More About Heavy Duty Hinges That Lock in Place Alternatives

View the questions and answers below. We've probably heard it before and we likely have an answer.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are corrosion resistant friction hinges available?

Most hinges have internal steel shafts and torque engines that are greased and must be sealed to prevent corrosion. Reell has a number of products with o-ring seals to provide weatherproofing. This provides limited protection in an outdoor application but is not suitable for applications requiring submersion in fluids.

Constant Torque Hinges For Position Control | Reell Precision Manufacturing

Reell Precision Manufacturing — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:15:53 GMT

Finding a Hinge that Stays in Position

When your product requires a hinge that stays in position, you need a constant torque hinge that holds its position until a specified amount of force is applied.

But what are constant torque position control hinges used for and how are they different from the other types of hinges? Position control hinges, sometimes called free-stop hinges, allow for equipment such as monitors, laptop lids or automotive mirrors to stay in place at any angle. That’s why we collaborate with a variety of medical, commercial and automotive equipment manufacturers to handle the efficiency, design and safety that’s required in a constant torque hinge.

High-Quality Hinges for Your Unique Application

Reell is a premier, full-service hinge designer and manufacturer for various Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket companies boasting more than 50 years of experience. With the world's most precisely controlled torque technology, combined with the industry's most experienced engineering team, our Saint Paul, Minnesota-based, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility produces full-motion constant torque hinges for a wide variety of applications across multiple industries.

Determining the desired range of motion and ideal torque for the hinge is crucial to identifying the exact type of friction hinge your application will require. By working with Reell’s team of engineers, you can rest easy knowing that we will find a solution that meets your needs.

Trusted, Industry-Leading Results

Reell has set the industry standard for hinge design and manufacturing for decades, providing the perfect product fit for all sorts of customer applications. Our experience designing and manufacturing torque hinges for position control extends to the following industries:

Automotive & Transportation

Interior Hinges for Center Consoles
Cargo and Compartment Lids
Mirrors and Displays
Instrument Panel and Dashboard
Seats, Headrests and Armrests

Hinges for Medical

Medical Lighting
Surgical Equipment
Dialysis
Ventilators
And many more

Commercial & Industrial

Table & Screen Positioning Across Industries
Adjustable Monitor Mounts
Architectural Lighting
Office Furniture & Equipment
Point of Sale Devices
And many, many more

Ready for the next step? Explore the markets we serve or browse our friction hinges.

Partner With the Hinge Experts

There are three options to consider when starting to start a hinge project with Reell:

Choose a hinge from the catalog. It’s as simple as picking from our selection of friction hinges or torque inserts for your application.
Modify an existing design. Does Reell have something close to what you want, but you think it needs some modification to suit your needs? Choose a blend of what’s available and basic customization.
Full Custom Design. If nothing looks quite right, tell us the application and geometry of what you’re looking for. Once we have that information, we can provide the design options that best meet your needs.

Not sure what your application requires or need help determining which hinge is best for your part? Submit an Engineering Application Review to us to tell us about the performance, fit and function needs for your application. A Reell engineer will review the information and we will get back to you with a determination of how we can help as quickly as possible.

Reach Out to Partner With Reell

If you are ready to work with Reell, contact us or submit an Engineering Application Review. We are excited to view your application and determine the best position control hinge solution for your needs. Once the application review is completed, we will get back to you within 24 hours regarding next steps.

Submit an Engineering Application Review Now

Do You Have Questions About Reell’s Constant Torque Hinges for Position Control?

Browse the questions and answers below. We’ve probably heard it before and we likely have an answer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a hinge that stays in position with a different mounting configuration?

Reell can produce custom mounting configurations to match your application geometry. The additional cost of a custom design must be considered.

Are position control constant torque hinges available with different torques in opposite directions?

Yes. Reell offers products with differential torque between directions.

Are constant torque hinges available that lock in place?

Reell can provide this feature in a custom hinge design.

How is hinge torque calculated?

Torque is the measure of force multiplied by distance. In hinges, torque is measured by taking the amount of force applied to the hinge and multiplying it by the distance from the hinge’s pivot point to the center of gravity of the object the hinge is attached to. If you want to find the best hinge for your application — including the amount of torque it will require — check out our hinge selection guide.