Control-Flex Shaft Couplings for Encoder Devices

Control-Flex Flexible Shaft Coupling Styles

Zero-Max Control-Flex Couplings for encoders, tachometers, and other measurement devices were developed to satisfy today’s high performance requirements. By utilizing a unique flexible disc that is based on a parallel linkage system, the reaction forces due to torque transmission and unavoidable shaft misalignments are considerably lower than those of other flexible shaft couplings – providing accurate feedback. Our encoder shaft couplings are available with clamp-style zero-backlash hubs, or in a drop-out bolted-style design for easy changeout, depending on the application.

Clamp Style Control-Flex Couplings

Clamp-style Control-Flex Couplings provide a positive shaft connection through a clamping hub on each side of a center flex member that is affixed to the hubs through precise pins. The clamp-style Control-Flex Couplings come standard without keyways; however, keyways are available upon request. Available with a single-flex disc for standard torque and high misalignment capacity or with two flex discs for increased torque capacity and torsional stiffness, clamp-style couplings are ideal for encoder and other feedback applications. Specifications of Zero-Max Clamp-Style Control-Flex couplings include:
Single Disc Couplings:

• Maximum Peak Torque of 6 in-lb to 361 in-lb
• Maximum parallel shaft misalignments of 0.013” to 0.055”
• Maximum speed of 5,000 to 12,000 RPM

Double Disc Couplings:

• Maximum Peak Torque of 10 in-lb to 650 in-lb
• Maximum parallel shaft misalignments of 0.009” to 0.037”
• Maximum speed of 4,000 to 10,000 RPM

Bolted Style Control-Flex Couplings

Bolted Style Control-Flex Couplings provide easy flexible disc replacement by incorporating a shaft hub on each side of a center flex member affixed to the hubs through shoulder bolts for drop-out capability. The bolted-style hubs utilize a keyway and set-screw shaft attachment and higher torque capacity. Specifications of bolted-style Control Flex Couplings include:

• Maximum Peak Torque of 361 in-lb to 5,638 in-lb
• Maximum parallel shaft misalignments of 0.055” to 0.139”
• Maximum speed of 2,500 to 6,300 RPM

Flexible Coupling for Encoders Features and Benefits

Zero-Max encoder flexible shaft couplings are an innovative and reliable solution for increasing the life and maintaining accuracy of encoder mechanisms and other measurement devices. Their high misalignment capacity simplifies installation and reduces setup time, while exceptionally low reaction loads help protect sensitive instrumentation and extend equipment life. Both styles of Control-Flex Couplings feature an electrically insulated flex element that helps safeguard components from stray electrical currents. Lightweight, low-inertia construction combined with a zero-backlash design ensures precise motion transfer and eliminates dead bands within the feedback system. Features of Control-Flex Couplings include:

• Easy Installation
• Space Saving
• Electrically Insulating
• Ultra Low Reaction Loads
• Zero-Backlash
• Maintenance-Free

Applications of Encoder Shaft Couplings

Control-Flex Couplings were developed to satisfy today’s higher performance instrumentation requirements for many industries and applications. These flexible shaft couplings are designed to handle parallel, angular, and axial shaft misalignments while maintaining constant transmission of torque and angular velocity. Common applications of Control-Flex Shaft Couplings include, but are not limited to:

• Conveyor belts and machines in packaging
• Encoders in printing and converting
• Specialty machinery with feedback devices
• Operations in materials handling

How to Choose the Right Flexible Encoder Coupling

To see if a coupling is suitable for an application, a selection procedure should be used by evaluating the maximum peak torque, shaft misalignment, and speed (RPM) to ensure proper fit and maximum operational life. Please view our Control Flex Couplings catalog for more information and details to determine the best coupling for your application. Contact us for assistance at any time.

Why Zero-Max for Control-Flex Flexible Shaft Couplings

For over 75 years, Zero-Max has been an industry-leading manufacturer of motion control and power transmission components designed to meet the requirements of the most demanding applications. Customers worldwide choose Zero-Max for our innovative designs, technical expertise, quality-driven practices, and extensive customization capabilities. We provide superior components by using the latest tools and applying our passion, quality, and service to provide top solutions for our customers. Our flexible shaft couplings can handle large shaft misalignments while minimizing reaction loads to perform better in high-performance applications. See why Zero-Max is your top Flexible Shaft Coupling manufacturer!

Contact Us for Your Flexible Shaft Coupling for Encoder Needs

Through a wide variety of high-performance flexible shaft couplings, and special modifications available upon request, Zero-Max is sure to provide you with the exact shaft coupling for your needs. Contact us to learn more about our encoder shaft couplings or request a quote for more detailed requirements. Additionally, find a sales representative in your area to get started today!