Product Description
A beam coupling, also known as helical coupling, is a flexible coupling for transmitting torque between 2 shafts while allowing for angular misalignment, parallel offset and even axial motion, of 1 shaft relative to the other. This design utilizes a single piece of material and becomes flexible by removal of material along a spiral path resulting in a curved flexible beam of helical shape. Since it is made from a single piece of material, the Beam Style coupling does not exhibit thebacklash found in some multi-piece couplings. Another advantage of being an all machined coupling is the possibility to incorporate features into the final product while still keep the single piece integrity.
Changes to the lead of the helical beam provide changes to misalignment capabilities as well as other performance characteristics such as torque capacity and torsional stiffness. It is even possible to have multiple starts within the same helix.
The material used to manufacture the beam coupling also affects its performance and suitability for specific applications such as food, medical and aerospace. Materials are typically aluminum alloy and stainless steel, but they can also be made in acetal, maraging steel and titanium. The most common applications are attaching encoders to shafts and motion control for robotics.
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| Type | Description | Bore(mm) |
| BR | D18L25 | 4~6.35 |
| D20L25 | 4~8 | |
| D25L30 | 5~12 | |
| D32L40 | 8~16 | |
| DR | D12L19 | 3~6 |
| D16L24 | 3~6.35 | |
| D18L25 | 3~10 | |
| D25L30 | 5~14 | |
| BE | D16L23 | 3~6 |
| D18L25 | 3~6.35 | |
| D20L26 | 4~8 | |
| D25L31 | 5~12 | |
| D32L41 | 6~16 |
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Torque and Speed Ratings for Different Sizes and Materials of Beam Couplings
The torque and speed ratings of beam couplings vary depending on their size, design, and material composition. Different manufacturers offer beam couplings in various configurations to meet specific application requirements. Here are some general considerations regarding torque and speed ratings for different sizes and materials of beam couplings:
- Size and Design:
Beam couplings come in different sizes and designs to accommodate various shaft diameters and misalignment compensation needs. Larger beam couplings typically have higher torque ratings, as their size allows for more robust construction and increased torsional rigidity. Likewise, different designs, such as single-beam, multi-beam, or bellows couplings, can affect the torque and speed capabilities.
- Material Composition:
The choice of material for beam couplings significantly impacts their torque and speed ratings. Common materials used in beam couplings include stainless steel, aluminum, and other high-strength alloys. Stainless steel couplings generally have higher torque ratings and are more suitable for high-speed applications due to their excellent mechanical properties and resistance to wear and corrosion.
- Manufacturer Specifications:
Each manufacturer provides specific torque and speed ratings for their beam coupling products. These ratings are determined through extensive testing and analysis to ensure reliable and safe operation within the specified limits. Always refer to the manufacturer’s datasheets and technical documentation for accurate and up-to-date information on torque and speed ratings.
- Operating Environment:
The operating environment can also influence the torque and speed ratings of beam couplings. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to chemicals or harsh conditions may affect the material properties and performance of the coupling. Consider the application’s specific environment when selecting the appropriate coupling.
It is crucial to choose a beam coupling that matches the torque and speed requirements of your application. Exceeding the rated torque or speed can lead to premature wear, coupling failure, and potential damage to other system components. Conversely, selecting a coupling with excessive torque or speed capacity may result in unnecessary costs and reduced system efficiency.
When selecting a beam coupling, always consult the manufacturer’s documentation and consider the specific application requirements to ensure that the chosen coupling can handle the intended torque and speed levels effectively and safely.
Materials Used in Manufacturing Beam Couplings
Beam couplings are commonly made from various materials, each offering unique properties that suit different application requirements. Some of the most common materials used in manufacturing beam couplings include:
- Aluminum:
Aluminum is a lightweight and cost-effective material commonly used in beam coupling construction. Aluminum beam couplings are ideal for applications where weight reduction is essential, such as in robotics or aerospace systems. They provide moderate mechanical strength and flexibility while offering good resistance to corrosion.
- Stainless Steel:
Stainless steel is a popular choice for beam couplings due to its excellent mechanical properties and high corrosion resistance. Stainless steel couplings are well-suited for demanding applications that require strength, durability, and resistance to harsh environments. They are commonly used in industries such as food processing, medical equipment, and marine applications.
- Brass:
Brass is a material known for its good electrical conductivity and moderate strength. Brass beam couplings are suitable for specific applications that require electrical grounding or where non-magnetic properties are essential. However, compared to stainless steel or aluminum, brass couplings may have slightly lower mechanical strength and corrosion resistance.
- Plastic/Polymer:
Plastic or polymer beam couplings are chosen for their lightweight and cost-effective nature. They are often used in applications where weight reduction is critical, and they offer electrical insulation properties. However, plastic couplings may have lower mechanical strength compared to metal couplings and are not suitable for high-torque applications or extreme environmental conditions.
- Carbon Steel:
Carbon steel is a robust and widely used material for beam couplings. Carbon steel couplings offer good mechanical strength and are suitable for various industrial applications. However, they may not provide the same level of corrosion resistance as stainless steel and may require proper maintenance to prevent rusting.
The choice of material depends on the specific needs of the application, including factors such as required strength, weight constraints, environmental conditions, and corrosion resistance. Manufacturers often provide a range of material options for their beam couplings to accommodate diverse industrial and commercial uses.
Differences between Single-Beam and Multi-Beam Couplings
Single-beam and multi-beam couplings are two common types of beam couplings used in motion control applications. While they both provide flexibility for misalignment compensation, they have distinct differences in design and performance. Let’s explore these differences:
- Structure:
A single-beam coupling consists of a single helical beam that connects the two shafts. It is a straightforward design with a single helix providing angular misalignment compensation. On the other hand, a multi-beam coupling has multiple helical beams arranged in parallel around the circumference of the coupling. The multiple beams increase its flexibility and enable compensation for angular, axial, and parallel misalignment.
- Misalignment Compensation:
Both single-beam and multi-beam couplings are capable of compensating for misalignment between connected shafts. However, the level of compensation differs between the two types. Single-beam couplings are more suitable for applications with primarily angular misalignment. They can handle small amounts of axial and parallel misalignment but are less effective than multi-beam couplings in this regard. Multi-beam couplings, with their multiple beams, can efficiently accommodate more extensive misalignment in all three axes, making them suitable for applications with more complex misalignment requirements.
- Torsional Rigidity:
Single-beam couplings typically have lower torsional rigidity compared to multi-beam couplings. This means that single-beam couplings may exhibit slightly more torsional flexibility and compliance under torque compared to their multi-beam counterparts. As a result, multi-beam couplings are often preferred in applications where high torsional rigidity is essential to maintain precise motion control and minimize backlash.
- Applications:
The choice between single-beam and multi-beam couplings depends on the specific requirements of the application. Single-beam couplings are commonly used in applications where space is limited, and primarily angular misalignment needs to be compensated. They are suitable for less demanding misalignment scenarios and can be found in various motion control systems, including small automation machinery and robotics.
Multi-beam couplings are chosen for applications that require more comprehensive misalignment compensation. They excel in situations where misalignment can occur in multiple axes and are often used in precision motion control systems, optical equipment, and applications with high torsional rigidity and accuracy requirements.
In summary, single-beam and multi-beam couplings both offer flexibility for misalignment compensation in motion control systems. Single-beam couplings are simple, space-efficient, and suitable for applications with primarily angular misalignment. On the other hand, multi-beam couplings provide enhanced misalignment compensation in all three axes and offer higher torsional rigidity, making them ideal for precision applications with more complex misalignment requirements.
editor by CX 2024-02-12