A coupling can be defined as a device for connecting two shafts to transmit torque. The main types of couplings are mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, and magnetic. Here are some coupling types:

Mechanical Coupling

These are the most common type of coupling found on machines today. They are flexible discs that have teeth cut into them. These teeth mesh together to transfer torque between the two shafts without transmitting any power transmission. There are three types of mechanical coupling: The Sleeve Coupling, The Welded-On Coupling, and the Keyed-On Coupling.

Sleeve Coupling

These couplings consist of a stationary ring with teeth on it, called the hub, and a flexible ring with teeth on it called the sleeve. Once the sleeve has been put on, both shafts can be inserted or removed from the hub. A key is then used to lock the two shafts together.

The Welded-On Coupling

This type of coupling consists of a stationary ring with teeth on it, called the hub, and a flexible disc welded onto its shaft. The teeth on the connector mesh together to transfer torque between the two shafts without transmitting any power.

The Keyed-On Coupling

The hub of this coupling has teeth on it and is stationary, while the flexible disc attached to it is keyed. The teeth on the connector mesh together to transfer the torque between the two shafts without transmitting any power.

Hydraulic Coupling

This type ofindustrial coupling consists of two discs with an opening for hydraulic fluid in them. These discs are attached to the two shafts, and when hydraulic fluid is pumped in, it forces the discs together to transfer torque between the two shafts without transmitting any power transmission.

Electric Coupling

This type of coupling consists of two discs with an electric motor in them. Between these two discs, there is a metal ring that has teeth on it. This ring can be made to rotate by turning on the electric motor. The teeth on the connector mesh together to transfer torque between the two shafts without transmitting any power.

Pneumatic Coupling

This type of coupling consists of two discs with an opening for air in them. These discs are attached to the two shafts, and when air is pumped in, it forces the discs together to transfer torque between the two shafts without transmitting any power transmission.

Magnetic Coupling

In such a coupling, a fixed disc with teeth on it referred to as the hub and a flexible disc with opposite poles on its faces and facing opposite poles on the hub make up the structure. A piece of metal is then passed through the opening in the hub. This magnetically couples the two discs together to transfer torque between the two shafts without transmitting any power.

Conclusion

Different coupling types are suitable for various purposes. However, there is no such coupling that can be termed as the best. Other types of couplings have other advantages and disadvantages. It is up to the engineer to design a machine on which kind of coupling to use.

Summary: Here, we have discussed different types of couplings and their configuration.
Resource Box: Power Ace India is one of the leading manufacturers and exporters for servo, torque limiters, couplings, and industrial clutches in Mumbai, India.