For industrial applications, flexible couplings are those elements capable of joining a pair of shafts -one driving shaft to a driven shaft- and compensate for vibrations or misalignments that often arise.
The application of flexible couplings is where the distance between the shafts of the connected equipment is small. Thus, their uses include pumps, compressors, blowers and mixers.
There are couplings that require maintenance and others that do not. This variable obviously affects the initial cost of the product. The unique polyurethane bi-part flexible element design and the use of radial bolts as a result, reduces maintenance service.
Flexible couplings are available. These flexible couplings are the only prototype split-in-half and reversible masses that significantly reduce overall costs by reducing inventory and assembly time.
From its term, a flexible coupling is distinguished from a rigid coupling. Let’s review their differences:
Rigid coupling:
Rigid couplings are designed to join two shafts tightly together so that it is not possible for relative motion to be generated between them. This design is desirable for certain types of equipment where precise alignment of two shafts is required and can be achieved.
In such cases the coupling should be designed in such a way that it is capable of transmitting torque on the shafts.
Rigid couplings should be used only when the alignment of the two shafts can be maintained very accurately, not only in the element in which they are installed, but also during the operation of the machines. If significant angular, radial or axial misalignment arises, stresses that are difficult to predict and can lead to early shaft failure due to fatigue can be induced on the shafts.
Difficulties such as the above are likely to be avoided by using flexible couplings.
Flexible couplings:
Flexible couplings are designed such that they are capable of transmitting torque smoothly, while allowing for some axial, radial or angular misalignment. Depending on the method used to absorb the misalignment, flexible couplings can be divided into:
1.- Sliding element couplings.
2.- Flexural element couplings.
3.- Combination of sliding and flexing couplings.
Their main characteristics are
– Ease of replacement
– Excellent chemical resistance
– No lubrication required
– Absorbs misalignment
– Protects the equipment by damping shock loads and torsional vibrations.
All these details make the use of Everlast’s flexible couplings more relevant to the industry.
