Jaw Couplings for Test, Measurement, and Inspection Applications
Ruland zero-backlash jaw couplings consist of two lightweight aluminum hubs and a center elastomeric element called the spider. Hubs press fit to an elastomeric element called the spider due to a proprietary curved jaw profile. The spider dampens impulse loads to minimize shock to the motor and other sensitive system components such as bearings. This is highly desirable in systems with high acceleration/deceleration curves often found in optical inspection and measurement equipment. High dampening reduces the time that these systems must pause between movements, known as settling time. 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 – in the event of failure the jaws of the two hubs interlock for direct 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 allows the user to 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 manufactures zero-backlash jaw couplings in our Marlborough, MA factory under strict controls using proprietary processes.
