Slit couplings have torque comparable to that of a single disc coupling, torsional stiffness similar to a stainless steel beam coupling, and misalignment consistent with an aluminum beam coupling. This combination of features allows a slit coupling to be used in place of one of these styles which all have limitations such as no accommodation of parallel misalignment in a single disc coupling. The proprietary slit pattern with radiused (as opposed to squared) edges reduces stresses that build up during misalignment and under torque loads, increasing effective service life and allowing for better performance when compared to other slit couplings available in the market. Along with low mass and inertia, these characteristics make slit couplings a good choice for robotic systems.
Robotic applications such as those found in medical, surgical, factory, and warehouse environments often require a zero-backlash coupling with high torque, torsional rigidity, and speed. These robots can start, stop and reverse constantly, necessitating the use of a responsive coupling. Along with other performance benefits, slit couplings have a moderate amount of dampening, which is useful in robots that require vibration control, such as material handling and articulating robots.
Slit couplings are offered in RL- and RS-series for a range of outer diameter and length combinations. RL-series couplings have longer lengths, allowing for greater parallel misalignment capabilities, increased torsional stiffness, and greater distances between shafts. RS-series couplings are designed to fit in compact spaces and offer parallel misalignment capabilities, an upgrade to the single-disc coupling, which has comparable torque but no accommodation for parallel misalignment. Both series accommodate all forms of misalignment with low bearing loads and have a balanced design allowing for speeds up to 70,000 rpm.
Slit couplings are available in clamp screw and set screw designs with inch, metric, and inch-to-metric bore sizes ranging from 1/8 to 3/8-in. and 1.5 to 12 mm. They are manufactured by Reliance Precision at their manufacturing facility in County Cork, Ireland. Ruland inventories and rebores couplings in Ruland’s factory in Marlborough, Massachusetts for fast turnarounds and no minimum order quantities. Full product specifications including free downloadable CAD files, installation instructions with videos, and application examples can be found at www.ruland.com.
Summary:
Lightweight, low inertia coupling capable of speeds up to 70,000 rpm
Manufactured from 7075 aluminum for low mass and inertia
High-performance coupling with a balance of torque, torsional stiffness and misalignment
Single piece design with no moving parts for a long, zero-backlash life
Sizes starting at 1.5 mm for applications with small shaft sizes and high speeds
Long styles for added torque and misalignment capabilities
Short styles for compact installations
RoHS3 and REACH compliant
Large inventory in Ruland’s Marlborough, Massachusetts location and available for immediate delivery
Ruland
www.ruland.com