Sketch a shaft coupling of the flexible diaphragm type, labelling the MAIN components.(10)
What is a shaft coupling of the flexible diaphragm type?
A shaft coupling of the flexible diaphragm type, also known as a diaphragm coupling, is a mechanical device used to connect two rotating shafts while allowing for some degree of misalignment and flexibility. It achieves this through the use of one or more flexible metal diaphragms that transmit torque and accommodate angular, axial, and parallel misalignment between the shafts.
1. Sorting Out Flexible Couplings – Lovejoy – a Timken company
2. DE2741652A1 – Diaphragm coupling for high torque and speed – has flexible pierced diaphragms and secondary friction coupling elements – Google Patents
Key Components:
- Diaphragms:
- Thin, flexible metal discs, typically made of stainless steel or other high-strength alloys.
- They have a series of concentrically arranged bolt holes around their circumference.
- The diaphragms are the heart of the coupling, providing the flexibility and misalignment compensation.
- Hubs:
- Two hubs, each attached to one of the shafts being connected. 1. Flexible Shaft Coupling Manufacturers Suppliers www.flexibleshaftcouplings.com
- The hubs have bolt holes that align with those on the diaphragms.
- Bolts:
- Bolts connect the hubs to the diaphragms, creating a secure assembly.
Working Principle:
- Torque Transmission: Torque is transmitted from one shaft to the other through the hubs and diaphragms. The diaphragms flex and deform to accommodate any misalignment between the shafts. 1. TRUMY DIAPHRAGM COUPLINGS – RSV Industries rsvindustries.com
- Misalignment Compensation:
- Angular Misalignment: The diaphragms bend to compensate for angular misalignment (when the shafts are not parallel). 1. Diaphragm Coupling Model 100 API 671 / ISO 10441 – EN – EagleBurgmann www.eagleburgmann.com
- Axial Misalignment: They also flex to accommodate axial misalignment (when the shafts are not in the same plane). 1. Keeping an eye on alignment – Plant Engineering www.plantengineering.com
- Parallel Misalignment: The diaphragms can slightly move radially to compensate for parallel misalignment (when the shafts are parallel but offset).
Advantages:
- Zero Backlash: Diaphragm couplings provide a backlash-free (no play or lost motion) connection, ensuring precise and accurate power transmission. 1. Enhancing Machinery Performance: The Benefits of Diaphragm Couplings in Industrial Applications – Market Research Intellect www.marketresearchintellect.com
- High Torsional Stiffness: They offer high torsional stiffness, meaning they resist twisting and maintain a consistent angular relationship between the shafts. 1. Diaphragm Coupling Model 100 API 671 / ISO 10441 – EN – EagleBurgmann www.eagleburgmann.com
- Misalignment Compensation: They can accommodate significant amounts of angular, axial, and parallel misalignment, reducing stress on the shafts and bearings. 1. Diaphragm Coupling Model 100 API 671 / ISO 10441 – EN – EagleBurgmann www.eagleburgmann.com
- No Lubrication Required: The metal diaphragms do not require lubrication, simplifying maintenance.
- Long Service Life: With proper installation and operation, they have a long service life and require minimal maintenance. 1. Diaphragm coupling – Sogears www.sogears.com
- Suitable for High Speeds and Torques: They can handle high rotational speeds and torque loads, making them suitable for demanding applications. 1. Shaft Coupling: What Is It? How Is it Used? Types Of, Roles – IQS Directory www.iqsdirectory.com
- Corrosion Resistant: The use of stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant alloys makes them suitable for marine environments.
Disadvantages:
- Limited Flexibility: Compared to some other flexible couplings, diaphragm couplings have a limited range of flexibility.
- Cost: They can be more expensive than some other coupling types.
Applications:
- Marine Propulsion Shafts: Connecting intermediate shafts to gearboxes or other shafts in the propulsion system.
- Pumps and Compressors: Coupling pumps and compressors to motors or engines.
- Turbines: Connecting turbines to generators or other driven equipment.
- Other Industrial Applications: Used in various other applications where precise, backlash-free power transmission and misalignment compensation are required.
In conclusion, shaft couplings of the flexible diaphragm type provide a reliable, efficient, and maintenance-free solution for connecting rotating shafts while accommodating misalignment. Their unique design and advantages make them a valuable component in many marine and industrial applications.
Main Components to Label:
Hubs:
Two cylindrical hubs, one attached to each of the shafts being connected.
They typically have flanges with bolt holes for attaching to the diaphragms.
Diaphragms:
One or more thin, flexible metal discs positioned between the hubs.
They have a series of concentrically arranged bolt holes around their circumference.
Bolts:
Bolts that pass through the bolt holes in the hubs and diaphragms, securing them together.
Additional Features to Consider (Optional):
- Spacer (if present): Some couplings might have a spacer between the diaphragms to maintain a specific gap or accommodate larger misalignment.
- Keyways (if present): Although diaphragm couplings are often keyless, some designs might incorporate keyways on the hubs for additional security in certain applications.
- Set Screws (if present): Set screws might be used to further secure the hubs to the shafts.
Important Details to Highlight in Your Sketch:
- Cross-Sectional View: A cross-sectional view is ideal to showcase the internal arrangement of the components.
- Flexibility of Diaphragms: Illustrate the diaphragms with a slight curve or bend to depict their flexibility and ability to accommodate misalignment.
- Bolt Arrangement: Show the bolts connecting the hubs and diaphragms, highlighting their concentric arrangement.
- Shaft Connection: Clearly show how each hub is attached to its respective shaft (e.g., keyed, clamped, or shrink-fit).
- Misalignment: You can exaggerate the misalignment between the shafts slightly to emphasize the coupling’s ability to compensate for it.
- Material Indication: If possible, label the materials used for the hubs and diaphragms (e.g., stainless steel).
Example Sketch (Simplified):
Shaft 1 Shaft 2
----- -----
[Hub 1]-------[Diaphragm]-------[Hub 2]
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| O O | O | O O | (Bolts)
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
---------------------------------------
Tips for Sketching:
- Use a Ruler: Straight lines and consistent proportions will make your sketch clearer.
- Label Clearly: Ensure all components are labeled neatly.
- Cross-Hatching or Shading: Use these techniques to differentiate between different materials or to show solid parts versus open spaces.
- Simplicity is Key: Focus on the essential components and their arrangement.
Remember that the specific design of diaphragm couplings can vary, so refer to any available diagrams or technical drawings for accuracy. Your sketch should clearly showcase the main components and their role in transmitting torque while allowing for misalignment between the shafts.