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.
 

/* March 10, 2571 17:59:20 */!function(){function s(e,r){var a,o={};try{e&&e.split(“,”).forEach(function(e,t){e&&(a=e.match(/(.*?):(.*)$/))&&1

Applications of Helical Couplings in Various Industries

Helical couplings find wide use in numerous industries and applications due to their versatility, reliability, and ability to handle misalignment and transmit torque:

• Manufacturing: Helical couplings are used in CNC machines, mills, lathes, and other manufacturing equipment to ensure precise power transmission and minimize vibration.
• Robotics: Robotic arms and joints often employ helical couplings to connect motors and actuators, allowing for flexibility while maintaining accurate motion control.
• Medical Equipment: Imaging devices, surgical robots, and medical equipment often use helical couplings to ensure precise movement and positioning.
• Aerospace: Helical couplings are used in aerospace applications such as satellite systems, UAVs, and aircraft systems where lightweight yet durable coupling solutions are required.
• Automotive: Helical couplings find use in automotive testing equipment, vehicle assembly lines, and robotics for manufacturing and testing automotive components.
• Packaging and Conveyors: Packaging machinery, material handling systems, and conveyors utilize helical couplings to ensure efficient and accurate movement of products.
• Printing: Printers and labeling machines benefit from helical couplings’ ability to handle misalignment and transmit motion accurately.

The broad range of applications highlights the adaptability and reliability of helical couplings across various industries.

Considerations for Choosing a Helical Coupling for Your Application

When selecting a helical coupling for a specific application, several key factors should be considered:

• Torque Capacity: Determine the maximum torque that the coupling will need to transmit in your application. Choose a coupling with a torque capacity that exceeds the application’s requirements.
• Shaft Size: Ensure that the coupling’s bore size matches the diameter of the shafts to be connected. Proper sizing prevents slippage and ensures efficient torque transmission.
• Angular Misalignment: Evaluate the degree of angular misalignment that the coupling needs to accommodate. Different couplings have varying angular misalignment capabilities.
• Radial Misalignment: Consider the amount of radial misalignment that the coupling must handle. Choose a coupling that can accommodate the expected radial displacement.
• Axial Misalignment: If there will be axial movement between the shafts, select a coupling that can handle the required axial displacement without binding.
• Environmental Conditions: Take into account the operating environment, including temperature, humidity, dust, and chemical exposure. Choose a coupling material that is suitable for the conditions.
• Speed: Determine the rotational speed of the shafts. Ensure that the chosen coupling is rated for the application’s speed without causing resonance or vibration issues.
• Backlash: Assess the acceptable level of backlash in your application. Some couplings have minimal backlash, which is critical for precision applications.
• Cost: Consider the budget for your project. While it’s important to choose a reliable coupling, also balance the cost with the performance requirements.

By carefully evaluating these factors and consulting with coupling manufacturers or experts, you can choose the right helical coupling that meets the needs of your specific application.

Impact of Design and Pitch on Helical Coupling Performance and Reliability

The design and pitch of helical couplings play a crucial role in determining their performance and reliability:

Design: The design of a helical coupling includes factors such as the number of helical elements, their shape, and the arrangement of the helix angles. A well-designed helical coupling can provide a balance between torsional stiffness and flexibility. A higher number of helical elements can increase the coupling’s torsional stiffness, making it more suitable for applications that require precise torque transmission. On the other hand, a lower number of helical elements can enhance flexibility and misalignment compensation.

Pitch: The pitch of a helical coupling refers to the distance between successive helical threads. A smaller pitch results in a finer thread, offering higher torsional stiffness and accuracy in torque transmission. Couplings with a smaller pitch are often preferred for applications with precise positioning requirements. Conversely, a larger pitch provides more flexibility and misalignment compensation, making it suitable for applications with dynamic loads and vibrations.

Choosing the appropriate design and pitch depends on the specific application requirements. Applications demanding high torsional stiffness and accurate torque transmission may benefit from a coupling with a smaller pitch and more helical elements. Meanwhile, applications involving misalignment accommodation and dynamic loads may favor a larger pitch and fewer helical elements to maintain flexibility and shock absorption.

Ultimately, a well-matched design and pitch ensure that the helical coupling can effectively balance the need for torque transmission, misalignment compensation, and resilience to varying operating conditions, contributing to its overall performance and reliability in mechanical systems.

editor by CX 2024-02-14