Selection Criteria for Couplings in Hydraulic Applications

Posted by Tradelink Services on March 20th, 2020

Couplings are standard components that go into several rotary motor applications; however, the task of selecting the perfect fit for your application can become quite daunting due to the multitude of varieties available.

Use & Selection Criteria

The basic use of couplings is transmission of power, compensating for axial movement and adjusting for misalignment in addition to undertaking absorption of vibration or shocks. Their use would not have arisen if the driving and driven shafts were perfectly aligned or there was no actual movement from the shafts or the machines involved were endowed with low vibration. The selection of coupling differs depending upon the type of misalignment or shaft movement.

In the first scenario, the two shafts may fail to have similarity in the pivotal hub. The second scenario can be angular misfit ting which occurs when there is no coaxial or parallel movement between the two shafts. When one or both the shafts exhibit pivotal movement the scenario is termed as end drift. When there is torsional formation in planes which lay opposite to the shaft axis the scenario is termed as torsional adaptability. In this case torsional adaptable coupling proves useful.

Selection Factors to be considered in Hydraulic Applications

In the case of hydraulic applications too, selection of the correct coupling guarantees quick and efficient linking and delinking of liquid supply lines. Consideration of the following factors helps you to make the right choice.

The first important factor in this regard is ascertaining the place where the coupling is to be fitted. If the coupling is located on a pipe then the best fit in this context would be the zero pressure type coupling. If the coupling is situated at the endpoint of a loose hose then most of the styles would be suitable.

The environment of the location also plays a determining role. Samiflex elastic couplings which will be placed outdoors need to be weather resistant.Ruland shaft collars & rigid couplings exposed to a dusty/dirty environment need to be minus any moving parts as then they will be less affected by dirt.

Next comes the degree of use. If the coupling will be subjected to heavy duty use then it is best to get a coupling with ring seals rather than flat washers and without spring loaded valves.

The rate of flow of the system will determine the internal valving and size of the coupling. The aim of system designers is to reduce the pressure drop as much as possible to eliminate chances of inefficiency of the system and accordingly the selection of the coupling will be made.

Air inclusion is another factor that will make an impact on the choice. Air inclusion refers to small quantities of air that gets infiltrated into the system while connecting the coupling. However, this becomes relevant in case of couplings closing at the interface prior to the opening of the valves.

Therefore, contact Tradelink services now and get a sturdy STS metal bellow couplings.