Industrial Flexible Couplings

Industrial Flexible Couplings

From transferring torque to cancelling out rotational vibrations, the industrial flexible couplings are almost unavoidable. Initially created to connect two shafts and transfer power, these mechanical devices now come in several different versions that serve a specific purpose. There are even couplings designed to act as safety switches and uncouple once a torque level is exceeded.

Industrial couplings and joints play a large role in mechanical power transmission. Rigid couplings are used mainly in production machinery when the shaft of one machine needs to be perfectly aligned with the shaft of another. Rigid coupling compositions have a longer shaft seal life as there is not that much tension on the seal itself. Flexible couplings are mainly used in electronics and in cases where you are experiencing shaft misalignment. You can even find industrial universal joints as parts in our automobiles transmission systems, train wheel systems, escalator mechanics, elevator doors and just about any device that needs to transfer power from a motor to a shaft.

Industrial couplings and joints vary a lot in size depending on their use. More torque requires larger axles, bearings and shafts, which in turn leads to larger couplings and joints. Size can be from a couple of millimetres to several centimetres. Manufacturers of industrial couplings and joints often create one model, made from one material but in several different sizes. Product specifications outline the stress tolerance, angle and other differences that apply to each size.

Installing the industrial couplings and joints can require additional components and tools depending on the locking mechanism. Kits with keys, wrenches and screws are often included in the purchase along with instructions on how properly install the parts.

The industrial flexible couplings might not be the only solution to your coupling problems. There are flexible jaw couplings, jaw coupling spacers, coupling adaptors and other parts that can come in handy in similar situations. Choosing the right joints can fix alignment issues and make it possible for a rigid coupling to do the job. Of course, if you do not possess the advanced mechanical knowledge to redesign the whole system, you can always stick to the model number and get the exact coupling you need.