Properties of Shaft Couplings 

Special requirements and features for shaft couplings with damping properties can be subdivided into different cate-gories. There are different tasks to be fulfilled depending on the area of application. Basically the following is included:

• Connection of two rotating shafts
• Transmission of torque
• Compensation of shaft misalignments, especially radial, angular, and axial
• Damping and influence of rotary movements, especially intermittent losses and vibration problems
• Good hysteresis loops and reduced wear
• Compact style and easy assembly
• Application in explosion-proof plants in accordance with the new Atex 95a guideline
• Coupling hubs in different materials, covering high-strength aluminum, steel and stainless steel. Any surface treatment is available as desired

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Concept adapted to dynamic re-quirements

The elastomer coupling Servomax® has been developed for being used in highly dynamic servo axes. The elastomer insert consists of polyurethane and is able to compensate axial, lateral and angular misalignment and dampens vibrations and impacts due to its elasticity. During operation of machines with frequent impacts, alternating and vibration load, the high damping capacity can have a positive effect on the service life of the connected motors and controllers.

Telescopic shafts with elastomer couplings

The safe and economic connection of long distances between shaft ends is a real problem for most of the designers. Easy assembly is a further demand when spanning long distances. R+W introduces a new Product for this, the adjustable telescopic shaft with elastomer coupling. The telescopic design of the intermediate tube allows for an easy adjusting of the length. Split hubs with elastomer inserts have been chosen for an easy assembly so that the Line Shaft may easily be integrated in existing systems as a complete unit.

There are Line Shafts of up to 1,100 Nm and up to 4 m length available. An intermediate bearing to support the shaft is not needed. High truth of running is ensured due to exactly fabricated hubs and the use of a precision tube.

Picture 2: Elastomer Coupling EZ2 telescopic intermediate shaft

Design and calculation criteria via R+W Software

A special software helps to determin the most critical values of the application. The values obtained there ofvide detailed information on the elastic deformation, critical resonant speed, torsional stiffness of the complete shaft, angle of turn, weight, mass moments of inertia and possible compensation of misalignment. The maximally admissible radial misalignments directly depends on the length of the Line Shaft. This calculation software which has been especially developed by R+W helps the user to make his decision.

Overload protection with damping Properties

In order to achieve an additional damping ofperty with backlash-free Torque Limiters, R+W has developed another series of elastomer couplings from the existing compact series.

One of the remarkable features of R+W couplings is the precise and still favorably priced solution. Easy, axial mounting  of the coupling is guaranteed.

Due to the remain functional system the couplings backlash-free and torsionally rigid during the entire service life. A spring loaded ball detent design of the Torque Limiter helps to achieve an exact overload protection while having short Outside diameter times. Only when exceeding the set torque, the coupling will disengage.

The elastomer Torque Limiter ES2 is optionally available as single-position, multi-position, load-holding, or full disengagment type and covers torques of up to 800 Nm.

Easy assembly after alignment of the shafts due to split hubs

The exact alignment of two shafts regarding the radial and angular misalignment is of utmost importance to the service life and wear of shaft couplings. Radial misalignment directly influences the smoothness of running of the entire drive unit. When using split hubs, the alignment is even easier. The drive and the driven unit can be mounted and aligned prior to the assembly of the coupling. After the alignment, the coupling can simply be installed radially and tightened. An installation and assembly instructions is enclosed with the delivered products.

Couplings according to the Atex 95a directory

The new generation of explosion-proof couplings has already been manufactured in the design and Production phase in compliance with the fundamental requirements of the new ATEX directory.

The explosion safety is confirmed for zone 1 and zone 2. Special marking of the couplings shows the manufacturer’s name, type of equipment, and production date, production number for continuous documentation and traceability. In addition, an operating and maintenance instruction is required and delivered with every ATEX registered coupling.

If you wish to receive more information on this Product please do not hesitate to contact R+W Antriebselemente GmbH at phone: +49-9372-9864-0 or via email at info@rw-kupplungen.de