company news about What is a coupling? The application of couplings in cranes?

Couplings are indispensable key components in mechanical transmission processes and play a crucial role in various models of cranes.
So, what is a coupling and why is it so important?

What is a coupling

We often encounter such a situation where motion and torque need to be transmitted between two shafts, but we cannot guarantee that the manufacturing and installation of the two shafts are precise and error-free, nor can we ensure that deformation or thermal expansion occurs during operation. Such phenomena can cause the shafts to shift from each other, affecting the operation.
The above is just one of the situations we may encounter during the usage process. In actual application, there will be more unexpected situations when transmitting motion and torque between shafts.
To avoid various problems encountered between shafts, at this time we can consider using couplings.

Coupling : A coupling is a component that connects two different rotating bodies (such as motor shafts, ball screws, etc.) and is used to transmit torque.
The load of assembly adjustment is reduced by absorbing the axial deviations (eccentricity, deflection Angle, axial amplitude) generated between rotating bodies.
And in the event of an unexpected overload, the coupling will be damaged and the connection between the rotating parts will be disconnected to protect the expensive power section and the entire device.

Classification of couplings

Couplings can be classified into two major categories: rigid and flexible.

• Rigid couplings have the ability to buffer and compensate for the relative displacement of two shafts. They require the two shafts to be strictly aligned. Representative ones include flange couplings and sleeve couplings
• Flexible couplings can be further classified into flexible couplings without elastic elements and flexible couplings with elastic elements.
  • Flexible couplings without elastic elements only have the ability to compensate for the relative displacement of the two shaft lines. Common types include slider couplings and gear couplings, etc
  • In addition to the characteristics of flexible couplings without elastic elements, elastic element flexible couplings also have the ability to buffer and reduce shock.
    Common models include elastic sleeve pin couplings and plum blossom couplings, etc

Application in cranes

In cranes, couplings are mainly used in the hoisting mechanism and the traveling mechanism

Lifting mechanism: The coupling is mainly used to connect the motor and the reducer, and then the reducer drives the drum, thereby achieving the lifting and lowering of the heavy object.
The use of couplings here can effectively transmit torque and can withstand certain radial loads

Running mechanism: A transmission shaft used to connect the drive motor and the wheel set.
It can ensure the smooth movement of the crane on the track.

Common coupling models

Cross coupling: Mainly used for the connection between the low-speed shaft end of the reducer and the wheel or drum.
It has a simple structure, is easy to manufacture, can transmit a large torque, but has a small compensation amount and high requirements for installation accuracy.

Gear coupling : It is the most widely used compensating coupling in various motion mechanisms of cranes, and it can be divided into full-tooth couplings and half-tooth couplings.
It has a small external dimension, a large torque transmission capacity, allows for a considerable offset between the connected shafts, has relatively low requirements for installation accuracy, and operates reliably. However, its manufacturing process is complex and the cost is relatively high.

Elastic pin coupling : including rubber ring pin couplings and nylon ring pin couplings.
Its structure is simple, capable of buffering and vibration reduction, and does not require lubrication.
However, it has a relatively small torque transmission, the elastic ring is prone to wear, and its service life is relatively short. Using a nylon elastic ring can increase the service life to a certain extent, and it is easy to manufacture, maintain and replace

Couplings, as key components for connecting shafts, are also indispensable in cranes.
Its performance and quality will directly affect the working efficiency and safety of the crane.
Choosing a suitable model and using couplings correctly can significantly enhance the overall performance of crane equipment, reduce maintenance costs and ensure operational safety.
If you have any questions about couplings or are looking for a suitable coupling for your equipment, you are welcome to consult our technical advisors at any time.
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