Jaw Couplings for Medical & Lab Analysis Equipment
Ruland jaw couplings consist of two lightweight aluminum hubs and a center elastomeric element called the spider. Hubs are machined with a proprietary process to produce a curved jaw profile that press fits with the spider allowing for consistent zero-backlash operation. The spider dampens impulse loads to minimize shock to the motor and other sensitive system components such as bearings. This is particularly useful in applications with high acceleration/deceleration curves often found in optical inspection and analytical equipment such as chromatographers. The spider is available in three durometers allowing the designer to balance dampening capabilities with torque, misalignment and torsional stiffness based on the needs of the system.
Zero-backlash jaw couplings are considered fail safe because the spider serves as the wear element – if it fails the jaws of the two hubs interlock for continued power transmission. The application can then be safely shut down for maintenance rather than stopping suddenly. Spiders can be replaced to restore the original performance characteristics of the coupling leading to reduced maintenance costs when compared to other coupling styles that require complete replacement when at the end of their usable life. Bores are available in sizes from 1/8” to 1-1/4” and 3mm to 32mm. The three piece design lets the designer mix and match clamp or set screw hubs with inch, metric, or keyless bores making it easier to tailor the coupling to specific system requirements. Ruland jaw couplings are manufactured in our Marlborough, MA factory under strict control using proprietary processes.
