Beam couplings with improved clamp design

Ruland Manufacturing Company has introduced a new clamp design for its zero-backlash flexible beam couplings. The couplings now clamp with a single screw on each end, which eases installation, and are balanced for increased rpm capability. The beam couplings now feature both a radial and cross-cut to enhance surface contact with the shaft. This increases holding power and while eliminating the need for the additional screw used in the original design. Balancing is achieved by the removal of material opposite the screw. Better balancing allows for increased speed with less vibration. This can both extend the life of the coupling and decrease settling time in stop and start applications such as machine vision systems. Ruland offers two series of zero backlash flexible beam couplings with distinct performance features suitable for different types of applications. The couplings are machined from a single piece of aluminum and feature multiple spiral cuts. The multiple cut design provides higher torsional stiffness and torque capabilities, and greatly reduced wind-up when compared to a commodity type single beam coupling. The multiple spiral cuts also allow the couplings to accommodate angular misalignment, parallel misalignment, and axial motion. Offered in aluminum for low inertia or stainless steel for higher torque and added corrosion-resistance, beam couplings are available as standard parts in twenty different body sizes with outside diameters ranging from 3/8" (10mm) to 1 1/2" (38mm) and bores from 3/32” (2mm) to ¾ “ (19mm). Ruland beam couplings conform to industry standard lengths, fitting in confined spaces and allowing for easy retrofits in existing equipment. Special designs, cut patterns suitable for specific applications, keyways, and threaded bores are also offered. Beam couplings are part of Ruland’s complete product line which also includes shaft collars and rigid couplings with precision honed bores, and five types of zero-backlash motion control couplings including bellows couplings, oldham couplings, jaw couplings and miniature disc couplings.