Posted to News on 10th Apr 2015, 16:26
Coupling options in metal manufacture
Selecting rubber-in-compression couplings as a cure for vibration and shock loading on arduous applications in the metal manufacturing industries can not only cut maintenance and downtime but also reduce operating costs and extend the life of the machinery and equipment to which the couplings have been fitted.
Excessive vibration and massive shock loading are common problems on plant and equipment in metal manufacturing that can damage machinery, cause premature failure and significantly increase maintenance costs. Not only can it result in damage to the machinery being driven but also to the motor and the component parts of the power transmission system.
One of the easiest and most cost-effective solutions to cure this problem is to fit rubber-in-compression type flexible couplings from Renold Hi-Tec. The benefit of rubber-in-compression couplings is that there is no metal-to-metal contact and the drive is through pre-compressed rubber elements that damp vibration, eliminate backlash, and ensure that the natural frequency of the drive train does not coincide with the running speed.
They comprise two round, metal sections fitting one inside the other with what looks like the paddles of a paddle steamer projecting inwards from the outer section and outwards from the inner. Rubber blocks are placed in the spaces in-between the paddles, and, as the outer section is turned by the engine, it drives the inner section through the rubber blocks. As this happens the rubber is compressed, and hence the term rubber-in-compression. They are maintenance free and the rubber blocks are usually good for at least 10 years of service.
Typical applications for rubber-in-compression couplings in metal manufacturing include rolling mill drives, table roller drives, coilers, ladle cranes, piercers, pilgar mills, pickling lines and edger drives.
Please visit www.renold.com for further information about rubber-in-compression couplings.
