Couplings are used to connect two shafts together and in spite of this, Flexible Gear Coupling is often regarded as a piece of hardware device rather than an important part of the power transmission system work. This type of coupling is used for the connectivity of the power to be transmitted from one shaft to another where this designed coupling is capable of transmitting very high torques. It is the most commonly used methods for connecting process equipments.
Functions Of These Couplings
The primary function of these couplings is,
- To transmit power, and
- To accommodate misalignment.
But it is to be kept in mind while selecting a flexible gear coupling that if they are properly selected, installed and maintained, they can provide a long life and good reliability with moderate misalignment capacity, exceptional stiffness and high torque transmitting.
How Is This A New Approach To Industry?
This type of gear coupling was limited to low torque in the early 1940’s with low speed applications where it can only limit itself to a certain amount of misalignment. Later in the late 1940’s, the scenario changed, it started being used in high performance applications. This new improved high torque resistance has helped the industry to use theses coupling in various mechanical devices which not only resolved the misalignment, but offers the following advantages to the industries as well which are:
- No lubrication
- Higher torque capability without an increase in coupling size
- Accommodation of greater misalignments like Axial and Lateral
- Accommodation of greater axial motions
- Suitable for high temperature operation
- Produce predictable moments and forces
- Easily balanced
- Operate for years without maintenance or problems, and
- Produce low vibratory inputs into equipment.
Coupling Life
The longevity or in a simple way to say, the coupling life plays a huge role in determining the operation of the device since the machine can only work when it has the potential of longer longevity and flexibility. These couplings have gained its popularity because of its high durability and can be installed easily.