Chain coupling is common in industrial applications. Getting the highest level of torque is an essential requirement in industrial production and that can only be achieved through the use of chain couplings. Such couplings have high strength due to duplex roller chains having flanges. The chain coupling is accurate when transmitting torque levels, having a variation of just around two degrees, and protects surround equipment's from getting damaged in the event of misalignment.
What is the Design of Chain Coupling?
It consists of 3-piece flexible shaft couplings. These are used in mechanical power transmission assemblies. They are used to transmit power between two shafts. Chain couplings are usually installed at the end of a motor or gearbox and used for connecting a machine for efficient power transmission.
A chain coupling consists of two hubs, one coupling chain, which looks similar to a double roller chain and a cover. The cover is recommended for protection and it also increases coupling life. However, many applications do not use it. Chain couplings are generally found to be safe for others as the shafts are aligned well, with a deviation of only 2 degrees. Moreover, they are an economical way to transmit power between shafts.
Chain Coupling Applications
Chain couplings are strong, robust, easy to install, and can operate at low to moderate speed, and in high torque applications. They are not used in higher-speed applications. There are other sophisticated couplings at work, such as the grid and gear couplings.
Chain couplings operate with more noise than other coupling styles, including those using metal roller chains. Because of its material, it is seen that plastic chains operate quietly, without any noise as compared to a metal chain. Even silent or inverted chain couplings are quieter than standard metal chain couplings.
Though chain couplings have a low cost of operations, they are also less efficient in handling shock loads than other couplings such as elastomeric grid couplings. Manufacturers generally recommend going for the next size if shock conditions are expected.
It is common for misalignment to happen in the case of chain couplings. This happens along two planes, parallel and angular. Couplings are expected to deal with misalignments. They perform better with the machines they connect with and where misalignment is kept to a minimum of fewer than two degrees.
Conclusion
Above, we have presented a brief overview of how chain couplings function. This includes attributes, applications, specifications, and selection considerations. It is advisable to contact a chain coupling manufacturer who can understand your requirement and design the right coupling for your application at a reasonable chain coupling price.
