R+W has developed the ECOLIGHT- TX1 series of molded thermoplastic insert couplings. The couplings feature a dramatically reduced mass and moment of inertia, accompanied by a high level of chemical compatibility and tolerance for heat, making the TX couplings ideal for both pump drive and servo applications. These plastics also provide major cost reduction compared to metals, as the result of decreased production times and relatively low material cost.
The material of the hubs is a glass fiber reinforced plastic developed for rigidity and corrosion resistance. Accelerated life testing involved 40 million load reversals at the coupling rated torque. Zero change to the integrity of the coupling keyway was discovered, as the steel key itself was the more brittle and compliant of the two materials. The thermal stability of the material is also critical, as an H7 shaft fit tolerance for the hub must be maintained regardless of the environments in which the couplings will be used.
R+W TX couplings have an elastomer element that is press fit between the two precision molded coupling halves giving it zero backlash and guaranteed concentricity. The elastomer insert is available in several Shore hardness values allowing the designer to choose how great of a damping effect is required for the application. The TX1 series coupling is designed for a pure keyway connection and is molded or bored to customer shaft specifications. Shaft mounting is achieved via a keyway and a set screw.
Sizes are available for torque capacities ranging from 2Nm (17.7 lbs/in) to 660Nm (5841 lbs/in) and bore diameters from 8 to 45mm and .375 to 1.75 inch with standard or metric keyways. Special shaft interface, such as spline hubs are also available upon request.