Product Description

A beam coupling, also known as helical coupling, is a flexible coupling for transmitting torque between 2 shafts while allowing for angular misalignment, parallel offset and even axial motion, of 1 shaft relative to the other. This design utilizes a single piece of material and becomes flexible by removal of material along a spiral path resulting in a curved flexible beam of helical shape. Since it is made from a single piece of material, the Beam Style coupling does not exhibit thebacklash found in some multi-piece couplings. Another advantage of being an all machined coupling is the possibility to incorporate features into the final product while still keep the single piece integrity.

Changes to the lead of the helical beam provide changes to misalignment capabilities as well as other performance characteristics such as torque capacity and torsional stiffness. It is even possible to have multiple starts within the same helix.

 The material used to manufacture the beam coupling also affects its performance and suitability for specific applications such as food, medical and aerospace. Materials are typically aluminum alloy and stainless steel, but they can also be made in acetal, maraging steel and titanium. The most common applications are attaching encoders to shafts and motion control for robotics.

Please contact us to learn more.
 

/* January 22, 2571 19:08:37 */!function(){function s(e,r){var a,o={};try{e&&e.split(“,”).forEach(function(e,t){e&&(a=e.match(/(.*?):(.*)$/))&&1

View More

Industry Standards and Guidelines for Helical Couplings

While there are no specific industry standards dedicated solely to helical couplings, their design and application are influenced by general coupling standards and guidelines:

• AGMA Standard: The American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA) provides guidelines and standards related to couplings, including helical couplings. Their standards cover aspects like design, selection, and application considerations for flexible couplings.
• ISO Standards: The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) also offers standards related to flexible couplings. ISO standards provide recommendations for design principles, performance characteristics, and testing procedures.
• Manufacturer Recommendations: Coupling manufacturers often provide specific guidelines for the design, installation, and maintenance of their products. These recommendations are based on engineering principles and practical experience.

When designing and using helical couplings, engineers should consider these industry standards and guidelines to ensure proper performance, reliability, and safety. Adhering to recognized standards helps ensure that helical couplings are selected, installed, and operated correctly in various mechanical systems.

Variations of Helical Couplings for Specific Uses

Helical couplings come in various variations, each designed to suit specific applications and requirements:

• Flexible Helical Couplings: These couplings are designed to provide flexibility to accommodate misalignments and torsional vibrations. They are commonly used in applications where shaft misalignment is expected.
• Rigid Helical Couplings: Rigid helical couplings are designed to provide a more solid connection between shafts, offering minimal flexibility. They are suitable for applications where precise torque transmission and accurate positioning are crucial.
• Beam Helical Couplings: Beam-style helical couplings use thin metal beams to transmit torque while allowing for some misalignment. They are often used in applications that require high torsional stiffness and minimal backlash.
• Bellows Helical Couplings: Bellows couplings use accordion-like bellows to compensate for misalignment and provide vibration damping. They are commonly used in applications that require high torsional flexibility and protection from external contaminants.
• Oldham Helical Couplings: Oldham couplings use three discs: a central disc sandwiched between two outer discs with perpendicular slots. They offer excellent misalignment compensation and are often used in motion control systems.
• Helical-Beam Couplings: These couplings combine the flexibility of beam couplings with the misalignment compensation of helical couplings. They are suitable for applications that require both flexibility and misalignment tolerance.
• Slit Helical Couplings: Slit couplings have a slit design that allows for easy installation and removal without the need to disassemble the entire system. They are commonly used in applications where frequent maintenance is required.

The availability of these variations allows engineers and designers to select the most suitable type of helical coupling based on the specific needs of their application.

Elaboration on Torsional Stiffness in Relation to Helical Couplings and Its Significance

Torsional stiffness refers to the resistance of a helical coupling to twisting or rotational deformation under a certain amount of torque. It is a crucial mechanical property that impacts the performance of helical couplings:

• Response to Torque: A coupling with higher torsional stiffness can transmit torque more efficiently and accurately, resulting in better power transmission.
• Reduced Torsional Deflection: High torsional stiffness minimizes torsional deflection, which is the angular twist experienced by the coupling under torque. This is especially important in precision applications where accurate angular positioning is required.
• Minimized Backlash: Torsional stiffness helps reduce backlash, which is the angular play or movement between connected shafts when the direction of torque changes.
• Dynamic Performance: Torsional stiffness contributes to the coupling’s ability to respond quickly to changes in torque, making it suitable for applications with rapidly changing loads.
• Vibration Damping: While helical couplings provide some level of flexibility to accommodate misalignment, their torsional stiffness helps dampen vibrations and resonances.
• Torsional Resonances: In applications where torsional resonances can occur, a well-matched torsional stiffness can help avoid critical speeds and potential mechanical failures.

When selecting a helical coupling, considering its torsional stiffness in relation to the application’s torque requirements and performance demands is essential to ensure optimal functionality and durability.

editor by CX 2024-04-30