GPM has been specifying TB Wood’s Sure-Flex couplings for several years. Early on, the company used competitor couplings, but eventually it switched to TB Wood’s because of the quality and value of the Sure-Flex coupling along with the trustworthy reputation TB Wood’s has in the market. GPM routinely replaces competitor couplings in the field. Their customers often have issues with burs and shaft bores on some of the lower-quality competitor brands.
TB Wood’s recently met with the GPM team to discuss the real-world benefits of the new EPDM and Neoprene sleeve materials used in Sure-Flex Plus couplings. The improved rubber compounds offer a 30% increase in torque ratings when compared to previous sleeves and competitor offerings. GPM quickly standardized on the new TB Wood’s Sure-Flex Plus coupling line for use on many of its custom pump assembly packages, including all the nonclose-coupled pump units it builds.
The most significant impact of the new Sure-Flex Plus couplings is on GPM’s ANSI pump packages. Due to increased torque capacity, the ability to drop down a coupling size often gives GPM the edge it needs to compete on large projects. ANSI package configurations typically have a short pump shaft along with clearance issues associated with some types of labyrinth bearing seals. These conditions make it difficult to remove the coupling’s center sleeve element while performing a motor bump test. This is especially challenging when a larger horsepower motor is used that requires a larger coupling. Dropping down to a smaller size coupling is a major benefit for GPM customers, especially maintenance technicians.
TB Woods
www.tbwoods.com