R+W Couplings: The Most Compact Shaft Couplings on the Market

Properties of Shaft Couplings 

Different applications have different requirements however the vast majority could often benefit from the damping properties provided by elastomer couplings. Some examples and features of these couplings include:

• Connection of two rotating shafts
• Transmission of torque
• Compensation for shaft misalignment, especially radial, angular, and axial
• Damping and influence of rotary movements, especially intermittent losses and vibration problems
• Good hysteresis loops and reduced wear
• Compact style and easy assembly
• Application in explosion-proof equipment in accordance with the new ATEX 95a guidelines
• Coupling hubs available in different materials, including high-strength aluminum, carbon steel and stainless steel.
• Various surface treatments also available

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Concept Adapted to Dynamic Requirements

The Servomax® elastomer coupling has been developed for use in highly dynamic servo axes. The elastomer insert is made of polyurethane and is able to compensate for axial, lateral, and angular misalignment, while damping vibration and impact loads. During operation of machinery with frequent impacts, alternating impacts, and a heavy vibration load, the high damping capacity can greatly increase the service life of the connected motors and mechanical components.

The couplings are available with elastomer inserts of various hardness values, including 80A, 98A, and 64D. Polyurethane is the preferred material for elastomer inserts as it is most resistant to oils, greases, gas, and many solvents. The standard elastomer couplings can accommodate torques between 2 and 2,150 Nm and shaft diameters between 5 and 80 mm.

Adjustable-Length Elastomer Line Shaft

Finding a way to safely and cost-effectively connect two shafts spaced relatively far apart has always been a problem for designers, especially when considering ease of assembly. R+W offers the perfect solution to this problem: the adjustable-length elastomer line shaft. The telescopic design of the intermediate tube allows for easy adjustment of the length of the shaft. Split hubs with elastomer inserts allow for easy assembly so that the line shaft can be integrated into existing systems as a complete unit.

Line shafts rated for up to 2,1500 Nm of torque and lengths up to 4 meters are available. When using this line shaft, an intermediate bearing to support the shaft is not needed. Smooth, vibration-free operation is ensured due to precisely manufactured hubs and the use of a precision tube.

Design and Calculation Criteria via R+W Software

Special software helps determine detailed information on the elastic deformation, critical resonant speed, torsional stiffness of the complete shaft, angle of turn, weight, mass moments of inertia, and possible compensation for misalignment. The maximum amount of radial misalignment depends on the length of the line shaft. The calculation software developed by R+W helps the user make important decisions with ease.

Highly dynamic intermediate shafts are increasingly used in mechanical and plant engineering fields of application. Areas of application exist in gantries, connection of linear guides, palletizing, and packaging robots.

Overload Protection with Damping Properties

R+W has developed a backlash-free torque limiter with the same vibration damping properties offered by the compact elastomer couplings.

One of the remarkable features of R+W couplings is precision, while still offering a favorably priced solution. Easy axial mounting of the coupling is guaranteed.

Due to a patented preload in the ball-detent design, the torque limiters are backlash-free and torsionally rigid, achieving precise overload protection within a small outside diameter. When the set torque is reached, the coupling will disengage, providing necessary protection to your system.

The ES2 elastomer torque limiter is available in four versions: single-position, multi-position, load-holding, or full disengagement. These torque limiters can handle disengagement torques of up to 800 Nm.

Easy Split Hub Shaft Alignment

Precise alignment of the two shafts, especially in regards to radial and angular misalignment, is extremely important to the service life of shaft couplings. Radial misalignment directly influences the smoothness of running the entire driven unit. When using split hubs, correcting misalignment becomes easier. The drive and the driven unit can be mounted and aligned prior to the installation of the coupling. After the alignment, the coupling can be easily installed radially and tightened into place. Installation and mounting instructions are enclosed with the delivered product.

Couplings According to the ATEX 95a Directive

R+W has finished designing and developing the next generation of explosion-proof couplings in compliance with the fundamental requirements of the new ATEX directive.

The explosion safety is confirmed for zone 1 and zone 2. Special marking of the couplings show the manufacturer's name, type of equipment used, production date, and production number for accurate documentation and traceability. In addition, operating and maintenance instructions are delivered with every ATEX registered coupling.

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