Shaft Couplings

Coupling• A coupling is a device used to connect two

shafts together at their ends for the purpose of transmitting power.

Types of Couplings

Couplings

Rigid Flexible

Rigid Couplings

• Rigid coupling is used for aligned shafts, or when accuracy of torque transmission is of prime importance.

• Mostly used for low rotational speed shafts.• Following are some types of rigid couplings;

1. Setscrew Couplings2. Flanged3. Clamp Couplings

Setscrew Couplings• Set screw couplings use a hard set screw that

digs into the shaft to transmit both torque and axial loads.

Flanged Coupling

Clamp Couplings• It uses one or two piece split couplings that

clamp around both shafts and transmit power through friction.

Flexible Couplings• Flexible couplings permit some axial, radial or

angular misalignment• Following are some types of rigid couplings;

1. Cardan Joint2. Oldham couplings3. Gear and Splines couplings4. Helical and bellows couplings5. Universal joints

Universal Joints

•Universal joints are a type of flexible coupling that utilized a yoke and cross to connect two shafts and allow shafts to be at an angle relative to each other. •Common application of Universal joints include car drive shafts, steering columns.

Cardan Joint

Cardan joints are a type of flexible coupling that connects two shafts using two pivots and a connecting rod.Couplings are often used for steering column and ratchet extensions

OLDHAM COUPLINGAn Oldham coupling has three discs, one coupled to the input, one coupled to the output, and a middle disc that is joined to the first two by tongue and groove.

Gear and Spline Couplings

• Can absorb small angular and parallel misalignment

• High torque capacity

Helical Couplings