Couplings comes in many different sizes, shapes, types and forms. From flexible spider couplings to all steel gear couplings, torque limiting couplings, to miniature couplings, magnetic couplings to disc and grid type couplings, there are a myriad of couplings designed for different jobs and applications.
As we wrote in our blog about what to consider when selecting couplings, there are numerous factors to consider when choosing a coupling for a given application, such as the horsepower of the motor, the shaft separation, the shaft size and keyway, amongst others.
Once you have selected the right coupling there are certain elements you should consider when using couplings of any shape, size or form in your particular application.
Mounting the coupling to the shaft
As Machine Design notes, the way in which a coupling is mounted on a shaft may prove pivitol in determining whether or not the coupling succeeds or fails. For example, if you were to mount a flexible jaw coupling with a keyless locking device, the coupling could be overkilled due to its flexible nature.
Install the coupling correctly
Whether it’s a Sitex coupling, Trasco es zero backlash coupling, or any type of coupling, if this important component is not installed properly, functioning problems are likely to result. For example, excessive misalignment can lead to a coupling failing prematurely. Similarly, incorrect hub mounting on the shaft can cause a motor’s shaft to be torn up with the coupling, thus not only making removal extremely difficult, but also resulting in the performance of the coupling being significantly deteriorated.
It is therefore extremely important that no matter what type of coupling you are installing, you do so correctly. If you are unsure how to install a coupling properly, it would pay to have someone who in experienced in coupling installation to do the task for you.
OEP Couplings gives some good advice on how to install flexible couplings and rigid couplings correctly.
Pay attention to torsional stiffness
Another reason for premature coupling failure can be pinned on a coupling lacking adequate stiffness. As Machine Design writes, due to the fact modern machines are increasingly required to rapidly stimulate cam profiles, torsional vibration can occur which can subsequently result in coupling failure. It is therefore important that sufficient torsional stiffness is present when a coupling is being operated.
Whatever application you require a coupling for, if you need any help locating a specific type of coupling, such as a Sitex st coupling, a Sitex fl coupling or a Tcb barrel coupling, YB Components can help you locate the correct coupling for your application. For all your coupling requirements, whether its small flexible ones to large rigid ones, get in touch with YB Components today.