Copasetic couplings: Flexible couplings

May 1, 2008
Flexible shaft couplings transmit torque from one shaft to another, and redress misalignment between them. The trick is that flexible couplings must act

Flexible shaft couplings transmit torque from one shaft to another, and redress misalignment between them. The trick is that flexible couplings must act as springs — but maintain high stiffness, too.

In basic automation machines, coupling springiness is not noticeable. However, it can become problematic in high-performance applications if a system regularly comes to abrupt stops. Here, the average flexible coupling winds up, springs back, and eventually rings into position. Critical movements must be delayed until the ringing settles, to maintain accuracy.

A new NBK XGT series of shaft couplings eliminates ringing with a specialized injection-molded polymer between their two shaft hubs. The polymer is designed to adjust for misalignments, but in aggressive moves, it damps ringing and limits payload overshoot. Too, the molded part maintains the zero-backlash rotation required in high-performance motion applications.

VITAL STATS

On display: NBK XGT flexible coupling

Key features: Injected-molded polymer is flexible, but damps shock and impulse-induced vibration, and eliminates all measurable resonance — to 1,000 Hz.

What it means to you: Machines that respond faster, with reduced settling times — by 50% to 90% where it's primarily contributed by the coupling. Also helps damp other system resonances originating in the motor or load, so servo gains and overall system performance can be increased.

What else: Example times to stop and target rotation speed: 40 and 60 msec; bore diameters 3 to 28 mm, overshoot distance reduced up to 60%.

Innovator: NBK and The Precision Alliance, Fort Mill, S.C.

For more info: [email protected] • (803) 396-5544.

Sponsored Recommendations

March 31, 2025
Unlike passive products - made of simple carbon springs - the bionic prostheses developed by Revival Bionics are propulsive, equipped with a motor and an artificial Achilles tendon...
March 31, 2025
Electric drives are a key technology for the performance of machines, robots, and power tools. Download this guide for an introduction to high-quality mechatronic drive systems...
March 31, 2025
Discover the world of maxon drive technology: motors, gearheads, sensors, controllers, and accessories. Configure your drive system online, including all relevant product and ...
March 31, 2025
Share current page XSun designs and manufactures a drone that is both energy-independent and can make its own decisions, for fully-automated missions. The company needed reliable...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!