Bellows Couplings up to 1,500 Nm

Development and optimization of the state of the art BK5 and BK6 Series couplings offers the appropriate element for many installation configurations.

As the efficiency of servo motors and transmittable torques increase, it becomes critical to increase the performance potential of flexible couplings.

The torsion-resistant design guarantees exact, backlash-free transmission of angle and torque. The easy assembly of the two piece design makes it well suited for complex applications with restricted access areas. The stainless steel bellows and glass-fiber reinforced plastic press-fit segment allow for the high torsional stiffness of the coupling. The press-fit design developed by R+W uses the axial spring force of the metal bellows to slightly pre-tension a tapered male segment into the corresponding female segment. An axial pre-tensioning of the metal bellows by only 0.2 millimeters assures absolutely backlash-free torque transmission. The self-adjusting tapered segment guarantees a wear-free and maintenance-free operation.

As a result of this design, access holes in the intermediate flange are no longer necessary. The coupling can be pulled apart easily, without having to loosen clamping screws. Standard clamping hubs with hexagonal cap screws or axially mountable tapered bushings with high holding torque are the two standard mounting options. Other hub types are optionally available in the product line.

Single-Position or Multi-Position Versions

R+W offers a choice of two different press-fit versions. The single-position connection (type S) guarantees assembly in only one angular position. Incorrect assembly of the coupling is avoided and due to the synchronous angular position, it is possible to re-assemble the drive without subsequent regulation or adjustment in the case of preset positioning. Time-consuming checks of precise transmission and possible sources of error are eliminated.

Multiple press-fit positions and problem-free blind assembly are achieved by the type M (multiple press-fit connection) (Figure 3).

A special glass-fiber reinforced plastic is used for the press-fit segment. This material has a strength similar to that of steel.

The hubs can be made from high-strength aluminum, carbon steel, or stainless steel. Special surface treatments such as nickel-plating, chrome-plating, nitro-carburizing, and oxidizing, as well as aluminum anodizing, are available without long lead times. Other materials and surface treatments are available upon request.

Bellows Couplings: Increase Bearing Life through Compensation for Misalignment

Even minor alignment errors in connected shafts can increase the restoring forces on bearings and other driven elements. The metal bellows coupling compensates for axial, radial, and angular misalignments, therefore simultaneously reducing these restoring forces.

Although the coupling will help compensate for misalignments, it is important to be precise when lining up and connecting the drive and driven elements.

R + W has made it possible to use precision metal bellows couplings in all types of applications, including high-speed applications. Metal bellows couplings with standard balancing can be used in applications with speeds of up to 20,000 RPM. The finely-balanced version, available upon request, allows for speeds of up to 50,000 RPM.   

Press-Fit Couplings: Conclusion

Machine downtime in mass production applications results in higher production costs, leading to an increase in unitary cost.

When using R+W press-fit couplings, which allow for quick assembly and disassembly of the machine components, the machine can be brought up more quickly, saving valuable time and money.

Furthermore, when designing and building a machine, the press-fit coupling will help reduce the assembly time, allowing for the production stage to be reached more quickly.

If you would like more information on this product, please contact R+W America by phone at: 888-479-8728 or via email at:info@rw-america.com