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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Comparison of Beam Couplings to Other Coupling Types in Terms of Backlash and Torsional Stiffness

When considering coupling options for motion control systems, two critical performance characteristics to evaluate are backlash and torsional stiffness. Backlash refers to the amount of rotational play or free movement between the connected shafts, while torsional stiffness indicates a coupling’s ability to resist torsional deformation when transmitting torque. Let’s compare beam couplings to other common coupling types in terms of these factors:

• Beam Couplings:

  Beam couplings generally exhibit low to minimal backlash due to their single or multiple helical beam design. The helical beams provide some flexibility to accommodate misalignment, but they maintain a relatively tight connection between the shafts, resulting in low backlash. This characteristic is especially valuable in precision motion control applications where eliminating play is essential for accurate positioning.

  In terms of torsional stiffness, beam couplings offer moderate to high values. The helical beams provide good torsional rigidity, making them suitable for applications that demand precise torque transmission and minimal torsional deflection. However, compared to other types like disc or jaw couplings, beam couplings may have slightly lower torsional stiffness.

• Disc Couplings:

  Disc couplings are known for their excellent torsional stiffness, providing robust torque transmission and minimal torsional deformation. They are ideal for applications requiring high precision and where torsional rigidity is critical.

  Regarding backlash, disc couplings typically have low to negligible values. Their design allows for precise and direct transmission of torque between the shafts, resulting in minimal rotational play.

• Jaw Couplings:

  Jaw couplings offer low to moderate torsional stiffness, making them suitable for applications with moderate torque requirements. They provide some flexibility to handle misalignment, but their torsional rigidity is not as high as disc couplings or certain types of beam couplings.

  Backlash in jaw couplings can vary depending on the specific design and materials. Some jaw couplings may have slightly more backlash compared to beam or disc couplings due to the elastomeric spider element used in their construction.

• Oldham Couplings:

  Oldham couplings offer low backlash performance due to their unique three-piece design, which incorporates two outer hubs and a middle disk. The design allows for consistent torque transmission and minimal play between the shafts.

  Torsional stiffness in Oldham couplings is moderate, providing a balance between flexibility and rigidity. While not as rigid as disc couplings, they still offer reliable torque transmission for various motion control applications.

In summary, beam couplings offer low to minimal backlash and moderate to high torsional stiffness, making them suitable for precision motion control applications that require a balance between flexibility and rigidity. Disc couplings provide excellent torsional stiffness and low backlash, making them an ideal choice for high-precision applications. Jaw couplings and Oldham couplings offer moderate performance in both backlash and torsional stiffness and are well-suited for applications with moderate torque and misalignment compensation requirements.

When selecting a coupling type, consider the specific needs of your application, such as the required precision, torque capacity, and misalignment compensation. Each coupling type has its advantages and limitations, and choosing the right one will contribute to the overall performance and reliability of your motion control system.

Real-World Examples of Successful Beam Coupling Installations and Their Benefits

Beam couplings have been widely adopted in various industries, and there are numerous real-world examples of successful installations showcasing their benefits. Here are some specific cases:

• Industrial Automation:

  In a factory automation setting, beam couplings are used in robotic arms and automated machinery to transmit torque between motors and actuators. The flexibility of beam couplings helps compensate for minor misalignments, reducing wear on connected components and enhancing system reliability. Additionally, the low inertia of beam couplings enables faster response times, improving the overall efficiency of the automated systems.

• Medical Robotics:

  Medical robots, such as surgical robots and diagnostic equipment, rely on precise and smooth motion control. Beam couplings, with their low backlash and high torsional stiffness, ensure accurate positioning and reduced vibration. The stainless-steel construction of some medical-grade beam couplings makes them suitable for sterilization processes, ensuring compliance with medical industry requirements.

• Photonic Systems:

  In optical systems and laser equipment, beam couplings are used to connect stepper motors and motion stages. The damping properties of beam couplings help reduce vibrations, preventing optical misalignment and maintaining the stability of laser beams. This is critical for high-precision applications like laser cutting and micromachining.

• Satellite Components:

  Beam couplings find applications in satellite components, where weight and size constraints are critical. Aluminum or lightweight alloys are used to minimize the overall mass while providing reliable power transmission between actuators and mechanisms. The low inertia of beam couplings contributes to smoother satellite movements and precise adjustments in space.

• Renewable Energy Systems:

  Beam couplings are employed in renewable energy systems, such as solar tracking mechanisms and wind turbine pitch control systems. Their ability to handle harsh environmental conditions, such as wind and weather exposure, ensures consistent and efficient energy production. The use of non-magnetic materials in some couplings prevents interference with sensitive electronics.

The benefits of successful beam coupling installations in these real-world examples include:

• Improved Precision: Beam couplings provide accurate torque transmission, reducing positioning errors and enhancing the precision of motion control systems.
• Enhanced Reliability: The flexibility of beam couplings compensates for misalignments, reducing stress on connected components and extending the lifespan of the motion system.
• Reduced Vibrations: Beam couplings dampen vibrations, leading to smoother movements and preventing resonance-induced failures.
• Weight and Space Savings: In applications with weight and space constraints, beam couplings’ lightweight design is advantageous.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Beam couplings offer a cost-effective solution for motion control, especially when compared to more complex coupling options.

These successful installations demonstrate the versatility and effectiveness of beam couplings across various industries, highlighting their ability to improve motion system performance, reliability, and efficiency.

Advantages of Using Beam Couplings in Precision Positioning Systems

Beam couplings offer several advantages when used in precision positioning systems. These advantages make them a popular choice for applications that demand accurate motion control and positioning. Here are the key benefits of using beam couplings in precision positioning systems:

• 1. Misalignment Compensation:

  Beam couplings are designed to provide flexible connections between shafts, allowing them to compensate for various types of misalignment, including angular, axial, and parallel misalignment. In precision positioning systems, where accurate alignment is critical for maintaining positioning accuracy, beam couplings help prevent unnecessary stress on the components caused by misalignment, reducing wear and ensuring consistent performance.

• 2. Torsional Rigidity:

  Beam couplings offer high torsional rigidity, meaning they effectively transmit torque without significant torsional deformation. This rigidity is essential for maintaining precise motion control and minimizing backlash in precision positioning systems. It ensures that the desired position is accurately maintained without undue twisting or torsional deflection.

• 3. Low Inertia:

  Beam couplings have a compact and lightweight design, resulting in low rotational inertia. Low inertia is crucial in precision positioning systems, as it allows for rapid and accurate changes in direction and speed. The low inertia of beam couplings helps improve the system’s response time and overall dynamic performance.

• 4. Zero Backlash:

  Beam couplings can provide backlash-free performance when correctly installed and utilized within their specified torque and speed ratings. This characteristic is particularly valuable in precision positioning systems, where any play or backlash can result in position errors and reduced accuracy.

• 5. Vibration Dampening:

  Beam couplings exhibit some degree of vibration dampening due to their flexible design. This feature is beneficial in precision positioning systems, where damping vibrations can reduce mechanical resonances, improve stability, and minimize settling times, resulting in smoother and more precise motion.

• 6. Long Service Life:

  High-quality beam couplings made from durable materials have excellent resistance to wear and fatigue. With proper installation and maintenance, beam couplings can have a long service life, providing reliable and consistent performance in precision positioning systems.

• 7. Easy Installation:

  Beam couplings are relatively easy to install and do not require elaborate alignment procedures. Their flexible design allows for some misalignment tolerance during installation, making the setup process more straightforward and efficient.

• 8. Cost-Effective:

  Beam couplings offer an excellent balance of performance and cost-effectiveness. Compared to some other types of precision couplings, beam couplings often provide a more budget-friendly solution without compromising on essential performance characteristics.

In summary, beam couplings offer significant advantages in precision positioning systems, including misalignment compensation, torsional rigidity, low inertia, zero backlash, vibration dampening, long service life, easy installation, and cost-effectiveness. These advantages contribute to the overall accuracy, stability, and reliability of precision motion control applications, making beam couplings a popular choice for demanding positioning tasks.

editor by CX 2024-02-07