In systems across all industries and facilities in Louisiana, couplings are used to connect two different shafts together to allow the transfer or transmission of power through a system. The choice of couplings is critical and is a factor of the amount of misalignment and movement of each end of the shaft that has to be considered to keep the system operable.
Without the use of couplings, any movement of either shaft could damage the system in a worst-case scenario, or result in loss of power and efficiency in a best-case scenario. While couplings are often not a primary consideration, they are an overlooked essential element in many different types of power systems.
One of the most reputable names for couplings is Rexnord. There are many different options in Rexnord couplings, all of which have specific uses and applications. There are two different options in coupling styles or types, including the mechanical flexing or the material flexing options.
Understanding what is needed in the coupling and the system helps to ensure the right selection.
Mechanical Flexing Couplings
All of the mechanical flexing Rexnord couplings are designed to address issues with rocking, sliding or rolling of the two ends of the shaft. These couplings need regular lubrication to prevent wear and to maintain the coupling.
Gear, roller chain, and grid couplings all fall into this category. They are designed for the two sides of the coupling to fit together using a gear, grid, or roller chain component for stability and performance in demanding operating conditions.
Material Flexing Couplings
The other category of Rexnord couplings is material flexing, and they are designed to be maintenance-free, with no or limited lubrication requirement. There are several different designs in this category, including sleeve, jaw, disc, tire, and diaphragm couplings.
Ideal for use in many systems in Louisiana, the material flexing couplings allow for misalignment of the shafts in parallel, angular and axial directions.
