shaft couplings - cdn.thomasnet.com
TRANSCRIPT
SHAFT COUPLINGSBUYING GUIDE
For more Buying Guides visit WWWTHOMASNETCOMIndustryrsquos go to Platform for Supplier Discovery
SHAFT COUPLINGS A ThomasNet Buying Guide
Shaft Couplings are mechanical devices used to connect
rotating shafts and absorb misalignments between them
Couplings can be rigid or flexible depending on the
alignment accuracies of the system and torque
requirements Shaft couplings are used for power and torque transmission between two rotating shafts
such as on motors and pumps compressors and generators
Coupling Styles
Beam The beam coupling consists of single or multiple helical cuts in the
coupling body which typically can accommodate parallel
misalignments up to 0025 inch and angular misalignments up to 7
degrees They are used primarily for motion control applications
where torques are typically below 100 inch-lbs Zero backlash
designs available ensure positioning accuracy between driving and
driven shafts
Bellows Bellows couplings are also suited to motion control applications They
consist of multiple convolutions of metal which provide high torsional
stiffness which is important to positioning applications Torsional stiffness
reduces the level of angular and parallel misalignment they can
accommodate compared with beam couplings although torque
transmission capabilities are about similar
Chain Chain couplings are suited to power transmission applications and are used
to transmit power up into the hundreds of horsepower range Angular and
parallel misalignment allowances are typically 2 degrees and 0015 inch
respectively Typical chain couplings use special chain sprockets and double
wide roller chains whose clearances permit the design to operate as a
flexible coupling
Jaw Curved and Straight Jaw couplings are used for both motion control and light power transmission
applications and consist of pairs of multi-jawed hubs that mate with elastomeric spiders The design
allows for backlash-free torque transmission Accommodation for
parallel misalignment usually approaches 001 inch and angular
misalignment about 1 degree Elastomeric spiders give these couplings
some damping capacity and of often the spiders are available in different
durometers to lend specific properties to the individual couplings These
couplings often operate without lubricant and can transmit torque up
into the 1000 inch-lb range
Diaphragm Diaphragm couplings are generally used for high power
transmission such as found in turbomachinery Typically
they employ one or more flexible metal convoluted discs
which transmit power to an inner spacer shaft then back
out through another diaphragm stack to the driven
machinery A principal advantage over gear type
couplings is their lack of lubrication requirements
Diaphragm couplings are capable of high torque
transmission and high speed operation
Disc Disc couplings use single or multiple discs and single or double
stages which bolt to the shaft hubs They are used for power
transmission and rely on the flexibility of their thin metal discs to
transmit torque and accommodate angular misalignment They are
not especially good at managing parallel misalignment They are capable of transmitting high torques
and are often used to couple high horsepower motors gas turbines etc to loads
Gear Gear couplings also transmit high torques They have misalignment
capabilities generally about 001-002 inch in parallel and 2 degrees in
angular Gear couplings are often used in pairs with spacer shafts to
span the distance between driving and driven equipment They
generally require lubricant although some designs intended for lighter
duty use lubricant free nylons or other polymers for the center sleeve
Grid Grid couplings employ spring like connecting elements that weave
between slots machined in the coupling hubs They are capable of high
torque transmission with an added bonus of shock absorption and
torsional vibration dampening They operate without lubricant They are
appropriate for power transmission and capable of handling parallel
misalignment up to 030 inch and angular misalignment of about frac14 degree
Oldham Oldham couplings handle high degrees of parallel
misalignment owing to their sliding element design Use of
an elastomer center element instead of metal is popular in
modern versions Some manufactures claim an ability to
tolerate up to 5 degree angular misalignment through the
use of cylindrical rather than rectangular sliders
Schmidt Schmidt couplings
are designed specifically to operate on shafts that are offset They
arenrsquot flexible couplings in the strictest sense which are designed
to accommodate slight misalignment in shafts that are
theoretically parallel and square to one another Schmidt couplings
are used in papermaking printing and similar machines and
function more like a 11 gearbox in
a more compact space
Clamping Rigid one- and two-piece Clamping couplings lack accommodation for
shaft misalignment and are popular for slow or intermittent shafting
arrangements where alignment is not of concern They are the simplest
form of shaft coupling and apart from their lack of misalignment
tolerance are inexpensive zero-backlash devices
Other couplings Coupling designs are many only the principal ones are detailed above Other coupling types include
meshing tooth or Hines designs pin and bush couplings and spline couplings
Applications and Industries Couplings correct for an inability to produce or maintain
perfect alignment in coupled machines Some machines
dispense with the need for couplings by running close
coupled meaning that the bearings of the motor support
an extended shaft upon which the rotating component of
the driven equipmentmdasha pump impeller for instance---
mounts The
motor and
pump at right is
an example of a
close-coupled
machine Where this is practical to do it is done to dispense
with he alignment problem Often though the machines
require their own bearings and as a result a need to connect
their independent shafts The diagram above shows the two
misalignments that can be expected parallel or offset (top)
and angular (bottom)
For some couplings backlash is an important concern Motion control applications where position of the
driven equipment is precisely tied to the position of a servo- or stepper motor rely on zero-backlash
coupling to assure that no slop exists in the system Backlash is a lesser concern for most power
transmission applicationsmdashpumpsmotors for instancemdashwhere efficient torque transmission is the
primary objective Here misalignment can lead to higher energy use accelerated bearing wear
excessive vibration etc
Both the beam and the bellows couplings offer zero backlash and are frequently used for transferring
the relatively small torques of motion control
For power transmission generally all-metal couplings such as the gear and disc designs are capable of
transmitting higher torques than those that use elastomeric elements such as jaw couplings
Although couplings are designed to accommodate misalignment they arenrsquot substitutes for aligning
machines during installation
Considerations In selecting couplings a designer first needs to consider motion control varieties or power transmission
types Most motion control applications transmit comparatively low torques Power transmission
couplings in contrast are designed to carry moderate to high torques This decision will narrow
coupling choice somewhat Torque transmission along with maximum permissible parallel and angular
misalignment values are the dominant considerations Most couplings will publish these values and
using them to refine the search should make picking a coupling style easier Maximum RPM is another
critical attribute Maximum axial misalignment may be a consideration as well Zero backlash is an
important consideration where feedback is used as in a motion control system
Some power transmission couplings are designed to operate without lubricant which can be a plus
where maintenance is a concern or difficult Lubricated couplings often require covers to keep the
grease in Many couplings including chain gear Oldham etc are available either as lubricated metal-
on-metal varieties and as metal and plastic hybrids where usually the coupling element is made of nylon
or another plastic to eliminate the lubrication requirements There is a reduction in torque capacity in
these unlubricated forms compared to the more conventional designs
Important Attributes
Coupling Style Most of the common styles have been described above
Maximum RPM Most couplings have a limit on their maximum rotational speed Couplings for high speed turbines
compressors boiler feed pumps etc usually require balanced designs andor balanced boltsnuts to
permit disassembly and reassembly without increasing vibration during operation High speed couplings
can also exhibit windage effects in their guards which can lead to cooling concerns
Max Transmitted Horsepower or Torque Couplings are often rated by their maximum torque capacity a measurable quantity Power is a function
of torque times rpm so when these values are stated it is usually at a specified rpm (5HP at 100 rpm for
instance) Torque values are the more commonly cited of the two
Max Angular Misalignment Angular misalignment capacity is usually stated in degrees and represents the maximum angular offset
the coupled shafts exhibit
Max Parallel Misalignment Parallel misalignment capacity is usually given in linear units of inches or millimeters and represents the
maximum parallel offset the coupled shafts exhibit
Max Axial Motion Sometime called axial misalignment this attribute specifies the maximum permissible growth between
the coupled shafts given generally in inches or millimeters and can be caused by thermal effects
Related Product Categories UniversalConstant Velocity Joints are mechanical assemblies composed of rotating and
pivoting components that permit large angular displacement between rotating input and output
shafts
Shaft Coupling Aligners are mechanical or electro-mechanical instruments that measure
misalignment between coupled rotating equipment such as motors and pumps
Resources
General Disc Couplings White Paper
httpwwwrexnordcomsitesProcessDocumentsCP4-00420XTSR20White20Paperpdf
Clamping Couplings for Motion Control
httpwwwrulandcompdfRigid_Couplings_Articlepdf
Online Coupling Handbook
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Coupling Preselection Guide
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Couplings Tutorial
httpturbolabtamueduprocturboprocT18T18141-164pdf
Chain Couplings
httpptptsubakimotocojpcontentse_bookcatarogkikCHAIN_COUPLINGSpageviewpageviewht
mlpage_num=0
Manufacturers and Suppliers httpcadtimkencomcategorypower-transmission-products
httphoustonbearingthomasnet-navigatorcom
httplabglasskimble-chasecomcategoryadapters-2
httpclutches-torque-limitersherseyclutchcomviewitemsrigid-shaft-couplingsmodel-rc-rigid-shaft-
couplings
httpcouplingsrenbrandtcom
httpcataloge-jpccomcategoryflexible-couplingsampbc=1007C1330
httpscicouplingsthomasnetcom
httpfcmasonthomasnetcomcategorycouplings-inserts
httpcatalogclimaxmetalcomcategoryrigid-couplings
httpmeccomthomasnetcomviewitemspower-transmissiondynaflex-couplings
httpcataloglovejoy-inccomcategorycouplings-power-transmission
httpcasesrplucecomcategoryhelical-flexible-couplings-2
httponlinecatalogtpa-uscomcategoryshaft-couplings
httpcatalogrowlandcompanycomcategoryflexible-couplings
httpproductsrpmmechcomviewitemsdynaflex-174-elastomeric-couplingsdynaflex-174-shear-
type-couplingsampbc=100|1001|1106
httpcatalogmachinecompcomcategoryslip-couplings
httpcookindustrialthomasnetcomcategoryelectric-motors-accessories-power-transmission
httpcatalogdaltongearcomcategory-overload-safety-devices-torque-limiters-couplings
httpindustrial-suppliescadencesupplycomcategoryshaft-couplings
SHAFT COUPLINGS A ThomasNet Buying Guide
Shaft Couplings are mechanical devices used to connect
rotating shafts and absorb misalignments between them
Couplings can be rigid or flexible depending on the
alignment accuracies of the system and torque
requirements Shaft couplings are used for power and torque transmission between two rotating shafts
such as on motors and pumps compressors and generators
Coupling Styles
Beam The beam coupling consists of single or multiple helical cuts in the
coupling body which typically can accommodate parallel
misalignments up to 0025 inch and angular misalignments up to 7
degrees They are used primarily for motion control applications
where torques are typically below 100 inch-lbs Zero backlash
designs available ensure positioning accuracy between driving and
driven shafts
Bellows Bellows couplings are also suited to motion control applications They
consist of multiple convolutions of metal which provide high torsional
stiffness which is important to positioning applications Torsional stiffness
reduces the level of angular and parallel misalignment they can
accommodate compared with beam couplings although torque
transmission capabilities are about similar
Chain Chain couplings are suited to power transmission applications and are used
to transmit power up into the hundreds of horsepower range Angular and
parallel misalignment allowances are typically 2 degrees and 0015 inch
respectively Typical chain couplings use special chain sprockets and double
wide roller chains whose clearances permit the design to operate as a
flexible coupling
Jaw Curved and Straight Jaw couplings are used for both motion control and light power transmission
applications and consist of pairs of multi-jawed hubs that mate with elastomeric spiders The design
allows for backlash-free torque transmission Accommodation for
parallel misalignment usually approaches 001 inch and angular
misalignment about 1 degree Elastomeric spiders give these couplings
some damping capacity and of often the spiders are available in different
durometers to lend specific properties to the individual couplings These
couplings often operate without lubricant and can transmit torque up
into the 1000 inch-lb range
Diaphragm Diaphragm couplings are generally used for high power
transmission such as found in turbomachinery Typically
they employ one or more flexible metal convoluted discs
which transmit power to an inner spacer shaft then back
out through another diaphragm stack to the driven
machinery A principal advantage over gear type
couplings is their lack of lubrication requirements
Diaphragm couplings are capable of high torque
transmission and high speed operation
Disc Disc couplings use single or multiple discs and single or double
stages which bolt to the shaft hubs They are used for power
transmission and rely on the flexibility of their thin metal discs to
transmit torque and accommodate angular misalignment They are
not especially good at managing parallel misalignment They are capable of transmitting high torques
and are often used to couple high horsepower motors gas turbines etc to loads
Gear Gear couplings also transmit high torques They have misalignment
capabilities generally about 001-002 inch in parallel and 2 degrees in
angular Gear couplings are often used in pairs with spacer shafts to
span the distance between driving and driven equipment They
generally require lubricant although some designs intended for lighter
duty use lubricant free nylons or other polymers for the center sleeve
Grid Grid couplings employ spring like connecting elements that weave
between slots machined in the coupling hubs They are capable of high
torque transmission with an added bonus of shock absorption and
torsional vibration dampening They operate without lubricant They are
appropriate for power transmission and capable of handling parallel
misalignment up to 030 inch and angular misalignment of about frac14 degree
Oldham Oldham couplings handle high degrees of parallel
misalignment owing to their sliding element design Use of
an elastomer center element instead of metal is popular in
modern versions Some manufactures claim an ability to
tolerate up to 5 degree angular misalignment through the
use of cylindrical rather than rectangular sliders
Schmidt Schmidt couplings
are designed specifically to operate on shafts that are offset They
arenrsquot flexible couplings in the strictest sense which are designed
to accommodate slight misalignment in shafts that are
theoretically parallel and square to one another Schmidt couplings
are used in papermaking printing and similar machines and
function more like a 11 gearbox in
a more compact space
Clamping Rigid one- and two-piece Clamping couplings lack accommodation for
shaft misalignment and are popular for slow or intermittent shafting
arrangements where alignment is not of concern They are the simplest
form of shaft coupling and apart from their lack of misalignment
tolerance are inexpensive zero-backlash devices
Other couplings Coupling designs are many only the principal ones are detailed above Other coupling types include
meshing tooth or Hines designs pin and bush couplings and spline couplings
Applications and Industries Couplings correct for an inability to produce or maintain
perfect alignment in coupled machines Some machines
dispense with the need for couplings by running close
coupled meaning that the bearings of the motor support
an extended shaft upon which the rotating component of
the driven equipmentmdasha pump impeller for instance---
mounts The
motor and
pump at right is
an example of a
close-coupled
machine Where this is practical to do it is done to dispense
with he alignment problem Often though the machines
require their own bearings and as a result a need to connect
their independent shafts The diagram above shows the two
misalignments that can be expected parallel or offset (top)
and angular (bottom)
For some couplings backlash is an important concern Motion control applications where position of the
driven equipment is precisely tied to the position of a servo- or stepper motor rely on zero-backlash
coupling to assure that no slop exists in the system Backlash is a lesser concern for most power
transmission applicationsmdashpumpsmotors for instancemdashwhere efficient torque transmission is the
primary objective Here misalignment can lead to higher energy use accelerated bearing wear
excessive vibration etc
Both the beam and the bellows couplings offer zero backlash and are frequently used for transferring
the relatively small torques of motion control
For power transmission generally all-metal couplings such as the gear and disc designs are capable of
transmitting higher torques than those that use elastomeric elements such as jaw couplings
Although couplings are designed to accommodate misalignment they arenrsquot substitutes for aligning
machines during installation
Considerations In selecting couplings a designer first needs to consider motion control varieties or power transmission
types Most motion control applications transmit comparatively low torques Power transmission
couplings in contrast are designed to carry moderate to high torques This decision will narrow
coupling choice somewhat Torque transmission along with maximum permissible parallel and angular
misalignment values are the dominant considerations Most couplings will publish these values and
using them to refine the search should make picking a coupling style easier Maximum RPM is another
critical attribute Maximum axial misalignment may be a consideration as well Zero backlash is an
important consideration where feedback is used as in a motion control system
Some power transmission couplings are designed to operate without lubricant which can be a plus
where maintenance is a concern or difficult Lubricated couplings often require covers to keep the
grease in Many couplings including chain gear Oldham etc are available either as lubricated metal-
on-metal varieties and as metal and plastic hybrids where usually the coupling element is made of nylon
or another plastic to eliminate the lubrication requirements There is a reduction in torque capacity in
these unlubricated forms compared to the more conventional designs
Important Attributes
Coupling Style Most of the common styles have been described above
Maximum RPM Most couplings have a limit on their maximum rotational speed Couplings for high speed turbines
compressors boiler feed pumps etc usually require balanced designs andor balanced boltsnuts to
permit disassembly and reassembly without increasing vibration during operation High speed couplings
can also exhibit windage effects in their guards which can lead to cooling concerns
Max Transmitted Horsepower or Torque Couplings are often rated by their maximum torque capacity a measurable quantity Power is a function
of torque times rpm so when these values are stated it is usually at a specified rpm (5HP at 100 rpm for
instance) Torque values are the more commonly cited of the two
Max Angular Misalignment Angular misalignment capacity is usually stated in degrees and represents the maximum angular offset
the coupled shafts exhibit
Max Parallel Misalignment Parallel misalignment capacity is usually given in linear units of inches or millimeters and represents the
maximum parallel offset the coupled shafts exhibit
Max Axial Motion Sometime called axial misalignment this attribute specifies the maximum permissible growth between
the coupled shafts given generally in inches or millimeters and can be caused by thermal effects
Related Product Categories UniversalConstant Velocity Joints are mechanical assemblies composed of rotating and
pivoting components that permit large angular displacement between rotating input and output
shafts
Shaft Coupling Aligners are mechanical or electro-mechanical instruments that measure
misalignment between coupled rotating equipment such as motors and pumps
Resources
General Disc Couplings White Paper
httpwwwrexnordcomsitesProcessDocumentsCP4-00420XTSR20White20Paperpdf
Clamping Couplings for Motion Control
httpwwwrulandcompdfRigid_Couplings_Articlepdf
Online Coupling Handbook
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Coupling Preselection Guide
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Couplings Tutorial
httpturbolabtamueduprocturboprocT18T18141-164pdf
Chain Couplings
httpptptsubakimotocojpcontentse_bookcatarogkikCHAIN_COUPLINGSpageviewpageviewht
mlpage_num=0
Manufacturers and Suppliers httpcadtimkencomcategorypower-transmission-products
httphoustonbearingthomasnet-navigatorcom
httplabglasskimble-chasecomcategoryadapters-2
httpclutches-torque-limitersherseyclutchcomviewitemsrigid-shaft-couplingsmodel-rc-rigid-shaft-
couplings
httpcouplingsrenbrandtcom
httpcataloge-jpccomcategoryflexible-couplingsampbc=1007C1330
httpscicouplingsthomasnetcom
httpfcmasonthomasnetcomcategorycouplings-inserts
httpcatalogclimaxmetalcomcategoryrigid-couplings
httpmeccomthomasnetcomviewitemspower-transmissiondynaflex-couplings
httpcataloglovejoy-inccomcategorycouplings-power-transmission
httpcasesrplucecomcategoryhelical-flexible-couplings-2
httponlinecatalogtpa-uscomcategoryshaft-couplings
httpcatalogrowlandcompanycomcategoryflexible-couplings
httpproductsrpmmechcomviewitemsdynaflex-174-elastomeric-couplingsdynaflex-174-shear-
type-couplingsampbc=100|1001|1106
httpcatalogmachinecompcomcategoryslip-couplings
httpcookindustrialthomasnetcomcategoryelectric-motors-accessories-power-transmission
httpcatalogdaltongearcomcategory-overload-safety-devices-torque-limiters-couplings
httpindustrial-suppliescadencesupplycomcategoryshaft-couplings
Jaw Curved and Straight Jaw couplings are used for both motion control and light power transmission
applications and consist of pairs of multi-jawed hubs that mate with elastomeric spiders The design
allows for backlash-free torque transmission Accommodation for
parallel misalignment usually approaches 001 inch and angular
misalignment about 1 degree Elastomeric spiders give these couplings
some damping capacity and of often the spiders are available in different
durometers to lend specific properties to the individual couplings These
couplings often operate without lubricant and can transmit torque up
into the 1000 inch-lb range
Diaphragm Diaphragm couplings are generally used for high power
transmission such as found in turbomachinery Typically
they employ one or more flexible metal convoluted discs
which transmit power to an inner spacer shaft then back
out through another diaphragm stack to the driven
machinery A principal advantage over gear type
couplings is their lack of lubrication requirements
Diaphragm couplings are capable of high torque
transmission and high speed operation
Disc Disc couplings use single or multiple discs and single or double
stages which bolt to the shaft hubs They are used for power
transmission and rely on the flexibility of their thin metal discs to
transmit torque and accommodate angular misalignment They are
not especially good at managing parallel misalignment They are capable of transmitting high torques
and are often used to couple high horsepower motors gas turbines etc to loads
Gear Gear couplings also transmit high torques They have misalignment
capabilities generally about 001-002 inch in parallel and 2 degrees in
angular Gear couplings are often used in pairs with spacer shafts to
span the distance between driving and driven equipment They
generally require lubricant although some designs intended for lighter
duty use lubricant free nylons or other polymers for the center sleeve
Grid Grid couplings employ spring like connecting elements that weave
between slots machined in the coupling hubs They are capable of high
torque transmission with an added bonus of shock absorption and
torsional vibration dampening They operate without lubricant They are
appropriate for power transmission and capable of handling parallel
misalignment up to 030 inch and angular misalignment of about frac14 degree
Oldham Oldham couplings handle high degrees of parallel
misalignment owing to their sliding element design Use of
an elastomer center element instead of metal is popular in
modern versions Some manufactures claim an ability to
tolerate up to 5 degree angular misalignment through the
use of cylindrical rather than rectangular sliders
Schmidt Schmidt couplings
are designed specifically to operate on shafts that are offset They
arenrsquot flexible couplings in the strictest sense which are designed
to accommodate slight misalignment in shafts that are
theoretically parallel and square to one another Schmidt couplings
are used in papermaking printing and similar machines and
function more like a 11 gearbox in
a more compact space
Clamping Rigid one- and two-piece Clamping couplings lack accommodation for
shaft misalignment and are popular for slow or intermittent shafting
arrangements where alignment is not of concern They are the simplest
form of shaft coupling and apart from their lack of misalignment
tolerance are inexpensive zero-backlash devices
Other couplings Coupling designs are many only the principal ones are detailed above Other coupling types include
meshing tooth or Hines designs pin and bush couplings and spline couplings
Applications and Industries Couplings correct for an inability to produce or maintain
perfect alignment in coupled machines Some machines
dispense with the need for couplings by running close
coupled meaning that the bearings of the motor support
an extended shaft upon which the rotating component of
the driven equipmentmdasha pump impeller for instance---
mounts The
motor and
pump at right is
an example of a
close-coupled
machine Where this is practical to do it is done to dispense
with he alignment problem Often though the machines
require their own bearings and as a result a need to connect
their independent shafts The diagram above shows the two
misalignments that can be expected parallel or offset (top)
and angular (bottom)
For some couplings backlash is an important concern Motion control applications where position of the
driven equipment is precisely tied to the position of a servo- or stepper motor rely on zero-backlash
coupling to assure that no slop exists in the system Backlash is a lesser concern for most power
transmission applicationsmdashpumpsmotors for instancemdashwhere efficient torque transmission is the
primary objective Here misalignment can lead to higher energy use accelerated bearing wear
excessive vibration etc
Both the beam and the bellows couplings offer zero backlash and are frequently used for transferring
the relatively small torques of motion control
For power transmission generally all-metal couplings such as the gear and disc designs are capable of
transmitting higher torques than those that use elastomeric elements such as jaw couplings
Although couplings are designed to accommodate misalignment they arenrsquot substitutes for aligning
machines during installation
Considerations In selecting couplings a designer first needs to consider motion control varieties or power transmission
types Most motion control applications transmit comparatively low torques Power transmission
couplings in contrast are designed to carry moderate to high torques This decision will narrow
coupling choice somewhat Torque transmission along with maximum permissible parallel and angular
misalignment values are the dominant considerations Most couplings will publish these values and
using them to refine the search should make picking a coupling style easier Maximum RPM is another
critical attribute Maximum axial misalignment may be a consideration as well Zero backlash is an
important consideration where feedback is used as in a motion control system
Some power transmission couplings are designed to operate without lubricant which can be a plus
where maintenance is a concern or difficult Lubricated couplings often require covers to keep the
grease in Many couplings including chain gear Oldham etc are available either as lubricated metal-
on-metal varieties and as metal and plastic hybrids where usually the coupling element is made of nylon
or another plastic to eliminate the lubrication requirements There is a reduction in torque capacity in
these unlubricated forms compared to the more conventional designs
Important Attributes
Coupling Style Most of the common styles have been described above
Maximum RPM Most couplings have a limit on their maximum rotational speed Couplings for high speed turbines
compressors boiler feed pumps etc usually require balanced designs andor balanced boltsnuts to
permit disassembly and reassembly without increasing vibration during operation High speed couplings
can also exhibit windage effects in their guards which can lead to cooling concerns
Max Transmitted Horsepower or Torque Couplings are often rated by their maximum torque capacity a measurable quantity Power is a function
of torque times rpm so when these values are stated it is usually at a specified rpm (5HP at 100 rpm for
instance) Torque values are the more commonly cited of the two
Max Angular Misalignment Angular misalignment capacity is usually stated in degrees and represents the maximum angular offset
the coupled shafts exhibit
Max Parallel Misalignment Parallel misalignment capacity is usually given in linear units of inches or millimeters and represents the
maximum parallel offset the coupled shafts exhibit
Max Axial Motion Sometime called axial misalignment this attribute specifies the maximum permissible growth between
the coupled shafts given generally in inches or millimeters and can be caused by thermal effects
Related Product Categories UniversalConstant Velocity Joints are mechanical assemblies composed of rotating and
pivoting components that permit large angular displacement between rotating input and output
shafts
Shaft Coupling Aligners are mechanical or electro-mechanical instruments that measure
misalignment between coupled rotating equipment such as motors and pumps
Resources
General Disc Couplings White Paper
httpwwwrexnordcomsitesProcessDocumentsCP4-00420XTSR20White20Paperpdf
Clamping Couplings for Motion Control
httpwwwrulandcompdfRigid_Couplings_Articlepdf
Online Coupling Handbook
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Coupling Preselection Guide
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Couplings Tutorial
httpturbolabtamueduprocturboprocT18T18141-164pdf
Chain Couplings
httpptptsubakimotocojpcontentse_bookcatarogkikCHAIN_COUPLINGSpageviewpageviewht
mlpage_num=0
Manufacturers and Suppliers httpcadtimkencomcategorypower-transmission-products
httphoustonbearingthomasnet-navigatorcom
httplabglasskimble-chasecomcategoryadapters-2
httpclutches-torque-limitersherseyclutchcomviewitemsrigid-shaft-couplingsmodel-rc-rigid-shaft-
couplings
httpcouplingsrenbrandtcom
httpcataloge-jpccomcategoryflexible-couplingsampbc=1007C1330
httpscicouplingsthomasnetcom
httpfcmasonthomasnetcomcategorycouplings-inserts
httpcatalogclimaxmetalcomcategoryrigid-couplings
httpmeccomthomasnetcomviewitemspower-transmissiondynaflex-couplings
httpcataloglovejoy-inccomcategorycouplings-power-transmission
httpcasesrplucecomcategoryhelical-flexible-couplings-2
httponlinecatalogtpa-uscomcategoryshaft-couplings
httpcatalogrowlandcompanycomcategoryflexible-couplings
httpproductsrpmmechcomviewitemsdynaflex-174-elastomeric-couplingsdynaflex-174-shear-
type-couplingsampbc=100|1001|1106
httpcatalogmachinecompcomcategoryslip-couplings
httpcookindustrialthomasnetcomcategoryelectric-motors-accessories-power-transmission
httpcatalogdaltongearcomcategory-overload-safety-devices-torque-limiters-couplings
httpindustrial-suppliescadencesupplycomcategoryshaft-couplings
Grid Grid couplings employ spring like connecting elements that weave
between slots machined in the coupling hubs They are capable of high
torque transmission with an added bonus of shock absorption and
torsional vibration dampening They operate without lubricant They are
appropriate for power transmission and capable of handling parallel
misalignment up to 030 inch and angular misalignment of about frac14 degree
Oldham Oldham couplings handle high degrees of parallel
misalignment owing to their sliding element design Use of
an elastomer center element instead of metal is popular in
modern versions Some manufactures claim an ability to
tolerate up to 5 degree angular misalignment through the
use of cylindrical rather than rectangular sliders
Schmidt Schmidt couplings
are designed specifically to operate on shafts that are offset They
arenrsquot flexible couplings in the strictest sense which are designed
to accommodate slight misalignment in shafts that are
theoretically parallel and square to one another Schmidt couplings
are used in papermaking printing and similar machines and
function more like a 11 gearbox in
a more compact space
Clamping Rigid one- and two-piece Clamping couplings lack accommodation for
shaft misalignment and are popular for slow or intermittent shafting
arrangements where alignment is not of concern They are the simplest
form of shaft coupling and apart from their lack of misalignment
tolerance are inexpensive zero-backlash devices
Other couplings Coupling designs are many only the principal ones are detailed above Other coupling types include
meshing tooth or Hines designs pin and bush couplings and spline couplings
Applications and Industries Couplings correct for an inability to produce or maintain
perfect alignment in coupled machines Some machines
dispense with the need for couplings by running close
coupled meaning that the bearings of the motor support
an extended shaft upon which the rotating component of
the driven equipmentmdasha pump impeller for instance---
mounts The
motor and
pump at right is
an example of a
close-coupled
machine Where this is practical to do it is done to dispense
with he alignment problem Often though the machines
require their own bearings and as a result a need to connect
their independent shafts The diagram above shows the two
misalignments that can be expected parallel or offset (top)
and angular (bottom)
For some couplings backlash is an important concern Motion control applications where position of the
driven equipment is precisely tied to the position of a servo- or stepper motor rely on zero-backlash
coupling to assure that no slop exists in the system Backlash is a lesser concern for most power
transmission applicationsmdashpumpsmotors for instancemdashwhere efficient torque transmission is the
primary objective Here misalignment can lead to higher energy use accelerated bearing wear
excessive vibration etc
Both the beam and the bellows couplings offer zero backlash and are frequently used for transferring
the relatively small torques of motion control
For power transmission generally all-metal couplings such as the gear and disc designs are capable of
transmitting higher torques than those that use elastomeric elements such as jaw couplings
Although couplings are designed to accommodate misalignment they arenrsquot substitutes for aligning
machines during installation
Considerations In selecting couplings a designer first needs to consider motion control varieties or power transmission
types Most motion control applications transmit comparatively low torques Power transmission
couplings in contrast are designed to carry moderate to high torques This decision will narrow
coupling choice somewhat Torque transmission along with maximum permissible parallel and angular
misalignment values are the dominant considerations Most couplings will publish these values and
using them to refine the search should make picking a coupling style easier Maximum RPM is another
critical attribute Maximum axial misalignment may be a consideration as well Zero backlash is an
important consideration where feedback is used as in a motion control system
Some power transmission couplings are designed to operate without lubricant which can be a plus
where maintenance is a concern or difficult Lubricated couplings often require covers to keep the
grease in Many couplings including chain gear Oldham etc are available either as lubricated metal-
on-metal varieties and as metal and plastic hybrids where usually the coupling element is made of nylon
or another plastic to eliminate the lubrication requirements There is a reduction in torque capacity in
these unlubricated forms compared to the more conventional designs
Important Attributes
Coupling Style Most of the common styles have been described above
Maximum RPM Most couplings have a limit on their maximum rotational speed Couplings for high speed turbines
compressors boiler feed pumps etc usually require balanced designs andor balanced boltsnuts to
permit disassembly and reassembly without increasing vibration during operation High speed couplings
can also exhibit windage effects in their guards which can lead to cooling concerns
Max Transmitted Horsepower or Torque Couplings are often rated by their maximum torque capacity a measurable quantity Power is a function
of torque times rpm so when these values are stated it is usually at a specified rpm (5HP at 100 rpm for
instance) Torque values are the more commonly cited of the two
Max Angular Misalignment Angular misalignment capacity is usually stated in degrees and represents the maximum angular offset
the coupled shafts exhibit
Max Parallel Misalignment Parallel misalignment capacity is usually given in linear units of inches or millimeters and represents the
maximum parallel offset the coupled shafts exhibit
Max Axial Motion Sometime called axial misalignment this attribute specifies the maximum permissible growth between
the coupled shafts given generally in inches or millimeters and can be caused by thermal effects
Related Product Categories UniversalConstant Velocity Joints are mechanical assemblies composed of rotating and
pivoting components that permit large angular displacement between rotating input and output
shafts
Shaft Coupling Aligners are mechanical or electro-mechanical instruments that measure
misalignment between coupled rotating equipment such as motors and pumps
Resources
General Disc Couplings White Paper
httpwwwrexnordcomsitesProcessDocumentsCP4-00420XTSR20White20Paperpdf
Clamping Couplings for Motion Control
httpwwwrulandcompdfRigid_Couplings_Articlepdf
Online Coupling Handbook
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Coupling Preselection Guide
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Couplings Tutorial
httpturbolabtamueduprocturboprocT18T18141-164pdf
Chain Couplings
httpptptsubakimotocojpcontentse_bookcatarogkikCHAIN_COUPLINGSpageviewpageviewht
mlpage_num=0
Manufacturers and Suppliers httpcadtimkencomcategorypower-transmission-products
httphoustonbearingthomasnet-navigatorcom
httplabglasskimble-chasecomcategoryadapters-2
httpclutches-torque-limitersherseyclutchcomviewitemsrigid-shaft-couplingsmodel-rc-rigid-shaft-
couplings
httpcouplingsrenbrandtcom
httpcataloge-jpccomcategoryflexible-couplingsampbc=1007C1330
httpscicouplingsthomasnetcom
httpfcmasonthomasnetcomcategorycouplings-inserts
httpcatalogclimaxmetalcomcategoryrigid-couplings
httpmeccomthomasnetcomviewitemspower-transmissiondynaflex-couplings
httpcataloglovejoy-inccomcategorycouplings-power-transmission
httpcasesrplucecomcategoryhelical-flexible-couplings-2
httponlinecatalogtpa-uscomcategoryshaft-couplings
httpcatalogrowlandcompanycomcategoryflexible-couplings
httpproductsrpmmechcomviewitemsdynaflex-174-elastomeric-couplingsdynaflex-174-shear-
type-couplingsampbc=100|1001|1106
httpcatalogmachinecompcomcategoryslip-couplings
httpcookindustrialthomasnetcomcategoryelectric-motors-accessories-power-transmission
httpcatalogdaltongearcomcategory-overload-safety-devices-torque-limiters-couplings
httpindustrial-suppliescadencesupplycomcategoryshaft-couplings
Applications and Industries Couplings correct for an inability to produce or maintain
perfect alignment in coupled machines Some machines
dispense with the need for couplings by running close
coupled meaning that the bearings of the motor support
an extended shaft upon which the rotating component of
the driven equipmentmdasha pump impeller for instance---
mounts The
motor and
pump at right is
an example of a
close-coupled
machine Where this is practical to do it is done to dispense
with he alignment problem Often though the machines
require their own bearings and as a result a need to connect
their independent shafts The diagram above shows the two
misalignments that can be expected parallel or offset (top)
and angular (bottom)
For some couplings backlash is an important concern Motion control applications where position of the
driven equipment is precisely tied to the position of a servo- or stepper motor rely on zero-backlash
coupling to assure that no slop exists in the system Backlash is a lesser concern for most power
transmission applicationsmdashpumpsmotors for instancemdashwhere efficient torque transmission is the
primary objective Here misalignment can lead to higher energy use accelerated bearing wear
excessive vibration etc
Both the beam and the bellows couplings offer zero backlash and are frequently used for transferring
the relatively small torques of motion control
For power transmission generally all-metal couplings such as the gear and disc designs are capable of
transmitting higher torques than those that use elastomeric elements such as jaw couplings
Although couplings are designed to accommodate misalignment they arenrsquot substitutes for aligning
machines during installation
Considerations In selecting couplings a designer first needs to consider motion control varieties or power transmission
types Most motion control applications transmit comparatively low torques Power transmission
couplings in contrast are designed to carry moderate to high torques This decision will narrow
coupling choice somewhat Torque transmission along with maximum permissible parallel and angular
misalignment values are the dominant considerations Most couplings will publish these values and
using them to refine the search should make picking a coupling style easier Maximum RPM is another
critical attribute Maximum axial misalignment may be a consideration as well Zero backlash is an
important consideration where feedback is used as in a motion control system
Some power transmission couplings are designed to operate without lubricant which can be a plus
where maintenance is a concern or difficult Lubricated couplings often require covers to keep the
grease in Many couplings including chain gear Oldham etc are available either as lubricated metal-
on-metal varieties and as metal and plastic hybrids where usually the coupling element is made of nylon
or another plastic to eliminate the lubrication requirements There is a reduction in torque capacity in
these unlubricated forms compared to the more conventional designs
Important Attributes
Coupling Style Most of the common styles have been described above
Maximum RPM Most couplings have a limit on their maximum rotational speed Couplings for high speed turbines
compressors boiler feed pumps etc usually require balanced designs andor balanced boltsnuts to
permit disassembly and reassembly without increasing vibration during operation High speed couplings
can also exhibit windage effects in their guards which can lead to cooling concerns
Max Transmitted Horsepower or Torque Couplings are often rated by their maximum torque capacity a measurable quantity Power is a function
of torque times rpm so when these values are stated it is usually at a specified rpm (5HP at 100 rpm for
instance) Torque values are the more commonly cited of the two
Max Angular Misalignment Angular misalignment capacity is usually stated in degrees and represents the maximum angular offset
the coupled shafts exhibit
Max Parallel Misalignment Parallel misalignment capacity is usually given in linear units of inches or millimeters and represents the
maximum parallel offset the coupled shafts exhibit
Max Axial Motion Sometime called axial misalignment this attribute specifies the maximum permissible growth between
the coupled shafts given generally in inches or millimeters and can be caused by thermal effects
Related Product Categories UniversalConstant Velocity Joints are mechanical assemblies composed of rotating and
pivoting components that permit large angular displacement between rotating input and output
shafts
Shaft Coupling Aligners are mechanical or electro-mechanical instruments that measure
misalignment between coupled rotating equipment such as motors and pumps
Resources
General Disc Couplings White Paper
httpwwwrexnordcomsitesProcessDocumentsCP4-00420XTSR20White20Paperpdf
Clamping Couplings for Motion Control
httpwwwrulandcompdfRigid_Couplings_Articlepdf
Online Coupling Handbook
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Coupling Preselection Guide
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Couplings Tutorial
httpturbolabtamueduprocturboprocT18T18141-164pdf
Chain Couplings
httpptptsubakimotocojpcontentse_bookcatarogkikCHAIN_COUPLINGSpageviewpageviewht
mlpage_num=0
Manufacturers and Suppliers httpcadtimkencomcategorypower-transmission-products
httphoustonbearingthomasnet-navigatorcom
httplabglasskimble-chasecomcategoryadapters-2
httpclutches-torque-limitersherseyclutchcomviewitemsrigid-shaft-couplingsmodel-rc-rigid-shaft-
couplings
httpcouplingsrenbrandtcom
httpcataloge-jpccomcategoryflexible-couplingsampbc=1007C1330
httpscicouplingsthomasnetcom
httpfcmasonthomasnetcomcategorycouplings-inserts
httpcatalogclimaxmetalcomcategoryrigid-couplings
httpmeccomthomasnetcomviewitemspower-transmissiondynaflex-couplings
httpcataloglovejoy-inccomcategorycouplings-power-transmission
httpcasesrplucecomcategoryhelical-flexible-couplings-2
httponlinecatalogtpa-uscomcategoryshaft-couplings
httpcatalogrowlandcompanycomcategoryflexible-couplings
httpproductsrpmmechcomviewitemsdynaflex-174-elastomeric-couplingsdynaflex-174-shear-
type-couplingsampbc=100|1001|1106
httpcatalogmachinecompcomcategoryslip-couplings
httpcookindustrialthomasnetcomcategoryelectric-motors-accessories-power-transmission
httpcatalogdaltongearcomcategory-overload-safety-devices-torque-limiters-couplings
httpindustrial-suppliescadencesupplycomcategoryshaft-couplings
using them to refine the search should make picking a coupling style easier Maximum RPM is another
critical attribute Maximum axial misalignment may be a consideration as well Zero backlash is an
important consideration where feedback is used as in a motion control system
Some power transmission couplings are designed to operate without lubricant which can be a plus
where maintenance is a concern or difficult Lubricated couplings often require covers to keep the
grease in Many couplings including chain gear Oldham etc are available either as lubricated metal-
on-metal varieties and as metal and plastic hybrids where usually the coupling element is made of nylon
or another plastic to eliminate the lubrication requirements There is a reduction in torque capacity in
these unlubricated forms compared to the more conventional designs
Important Attributes
Coupling Style Most of the common styles have been described above
Maximum RPM Most couplings have a limit on their maximum rotational speed Couplings for high speed turbines
compressors boiler feed pumps etc usually require balanced designs andor balanced boltsnuts to
permit disassembly and reassembly without increasing vibration during operation High speed couplings
can also exhibit windage effects in their guards which can lead to cooling concerns
Max Transmitted Horsepower or Torque Couplings are often rated by their maximum torque capacity a measurable quantity Power is a function
of torque times rpm so when these values are stated it is usually at a specified rpm (5HP at 100 rpm for
instance) Torque values are the more commonly cited of the two
Max Angular Misalignment Angular misalignment capacity is usually stated in degrees and represents the maximum angular offset
the coupled shafts exhibit
Max Parallel Misalignment Parallel misalignment capacity is usually given in linear units of inches or millimeters and represents the
maximum parallel offset the coupled shafts exhibit
Max Axial Motion Sometime called axial misalignment this attribute specifies the maximum permissible growth between
the coupled shafts given generally in inches or millimeters and can be caused by thermal effects
Related Product Categories UniversalConstant Velocity Joints are mechanical assemblies composed of rotating and
pivoting components that permit large angular displacement between rotating input and output
shafts
Shaft Coupling Aligners are mechanical or electro-mechanical instruments that measure
misalignment between coupled rotating equipment such as motors and pumps
Resources
General Disc Couplings White Paper
httpwwwrexnordcomsitesProcessDocumentsCP4-00420XTSR20White20Paperpdf
Clamping Couplings for Motion Control
httpwwwrulandcompdfRigid_Couplings_Articlepdf
Online Coupling Handbook
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Coupling Preselection Guide
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Couplings Tutorial
httpturbolabtamueduprocturboprocT18T18141-164pdf
Chain Couplings
httpptptsubakimotocojpcontentse_bookcatarogkikCHAIN_COUPLINGSpageviewpageviewht
mlpage_num=0
Manufacturers and Suppliers httpcadtimkencomcategorypower-transmission-products
httphoustonbearingthomasnet-navigatorcom
httplabglasskimble-chasecomcategoryadapters-2
httpclutches-torque-limitersherseyclutchcomviewitemsrigid-shaft-couplingsmodel-rc-rigid-shaft-
couplings
httpcouplingsrenbrandtcom
httpcataloge-jpccomcategoryflexible-couplingsampbc=1007C1330
httpscicouplingsthomasnetcom
httpfcmasonthomasnetcomcategorycouplings-inserts
httpcatalogclimaxmetalcomcategoryrigid-couplings
httpmeccomthomasnetcomviewitemspower-transmissiondynaflex-couplings
httpcataloglovejoy-inccomcategorycouplings-power-transmission
httpcasesrplucecomcategoryhelical-flexible-couplings-2
httponlinecatalogtpa-uscomcategoryshaft-couplings
httpcatalogrowlandcompanycomcategoryflexible-couplings
httpproductsrpmmechcomviewitemsdynaflex-174-elastomeric-couplingsdynaflex-174-shear-
type-couplingsampbc=100|1001|1106
httpcatalogmachinecompcomcategoryslip-couplings
httpcookindustrialthomasnetcomcategoryelectric-motors-accessories-power-transmission
httpcatalogdaltongearcomcategory-overload-safety-devices-torque-limiters-couplings
httpindustrial-suppliescadencesupplycomcategoryshaft-couplings
Related Product Categories UniversalConstant Velocity Joints are mechanical assemblies composed of rotating and
pivoting components that permit large angular displacement between rotating input and output
shafts
Shaft Coupling Aligners are mechanical or electro-mechanical instruments that measure
misalignment between coupled rotating equipment such as motors and pumps
Resources
General Disc Couplings White Paper
httpwwwrexnordcomsitesProcessDocumentsCP4-00420XTSR20White20Paperpdf
Clamping Couplings for Motion Control
httpwwwrulandcompdfRigid_Couplings_Articlepdf
Online Coupling Handbook
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Coupling Preselection Guide
httpwwwlovejoy-inccomthecouplinghandbook_part1aspx
Couplings Tutorial
httpturbolabtamueduprocturboprocT18T18141-164pdf
Chain Couplings
httpptptsubakimotocojpcontentse_bookcatarogkikCHAIN_COUPLINGSpageviewpageviewht
mlpage_num=0
Manufacturers and Suppliers httpcadtimkencomcategorypower-transmission-products
httphoustonbearingthomasnet-navigatorcom
httplabglasskimble-chasecomcategoryadapters-2
httpclutches-torque-limitersherseyclutchcomviewitemsrigid-shaft-couplingsmodel-rc-rigid-shaft-
couplings
httpcouplingsrenbrandtcom
httpcataloge-jpccomcategoryflexible-couplingsampbc=1007C1330
httpscicouplingsthomasnetcom
httpfcmasonthomasnetcomcategorycouplings-inserts
httpcatalogclimaxmetalcomcategoryrigid-couplings
httpmeccomthomasnetcomviewitemspower-transmissiondynaflex-couplings
httpcataloglovejoy-inccomcategorycouplings-power-transmission
httpcasesrplucecomcategoryhelical-flexible-couplings-2
httponlinecatalogtpa-uscomcategoryshaft-couplings
httpcatalogrowlandcompanycomcategoryflexible-couplings
httpproductsrpmmechcomviewitemsdynaflex-174-elastomeric-couplingsdynaflex-174-shear-
type-couplingsampbc=100|1001|1106
httpcatalogmachinecompcomcategoryslip-couplings
httpcookindustrialthomasnetcomcategoryelectric-motors-accessories-power-transmission
httpcatalogdaltongearcomcategory-overload-safety-devices-torque-limiters-couplings
httpindustrial-suppliescadencesupplycomcategoryshaft-couplings
httpproductsrpmmechcomviewitemsdynaflex-174-elastomeric-couplingsdynaflex-174-shear-
type-couplingsampbc=100|1001|1106
httpcatalogmachinecompcomcategoryslip-couplings
httpcookindustrialthomasnetcomcategoryelectric-motors-accessories-power-transmission
httpcatalogdaltongearcomcategory-overload-safety-devices-torque-limiters-couplings
httpindustrial-suppliescadencesupplycomcategoryshaft-couplings