Why a flexible coupling?

Flexible couplings are used to transfer control (torque) from one shaft to the next; compensate for slight misalignments; and provide protective features in certain situations.

For this reason, industrial power transmission often requires flexible couplings rather than rigid couplings.

When it comes time to replace a flexible coupling, the natural tendency is to take the easy way out and just find something similar (or even identical) to the failed coupling, perhaps with a couple of larger-than-average fudge components to ease the strain.

However, this training often leads to repeated disappointment or costly system damage.

A wiser approach is to first assume that past coupling failures were because it was the wrong type for the application.

Even if past designs are confirmed, it’s worth taking the time to decide on the right type of coupling.

However, it may give you an unexpected surprise, and it will work better and last longer.

Simply put, a flexible coupling is used to transfer torque from one shaft to another when the two shafts are slightly misaligned.

In this case, the test fixture uses a torque sensor as a torque transducer to measure torque. In this case, a flexible coupling is used to connect the motor and torque sensor to the workpiece.

Since the torque sensor needs to lie as flat as possible, the two couplings need to minimize any misalignment errors. They also need to protect the sensor from overloads.

The main characteristics of flexible couplings are very low or zero backlash, good torsional stiffness, and good lateral and angular misalignment capabilities, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.