FAQs - Flexible Couplings
Welcome to our Flexible Couplings FAQ page. Whether you're a beginner or an industry pro, this resource is your go-to source for answers to common queries about flexible couplings. Explore the essential information you need to understand, select, and maintain these crucial components.
-
Composite Disc Couplings
-
ServoClass Couplings
-
Control-Flex Couplings
-
Schmidt Offset Couplings
-
Schmidt Inline Couplings
-
Schmidt 5-D Couplings
Where should I use a Single-Flex versus a Double-Flex CD Coupling?
A Single-Flex CD Coupling can be used where parallel misalignment is minimal. The Single-Flex CD Coupling can be ideal in these situations, such as many servomotor and automation equipment applications, where the shafts are typically well aligned. With only one disc-pack, the Single-Flex CD Coupling offers a more compact size, higher torsional stiffness, lower inertia, yet it can still handle any inevitable small amounts of parallel misalignment that may exist. Both the Single-Flex and Double-Flex CD Couplings handle up to 3° of angular misalignment.
A Double-Flex CD Coupling has two disc-packs, which allows it to handle a much greater amount of parallel misalignment. Also, by using two open-arm disc-packs, the design of the Double-Flex CD Coupling greatly reduces the reaction loads on the connected equipment.
Other than the misalignment capacities, in some cases the DBSE (distance between shaft ends) will determine whether you should use the shorter Single-Flex or the longer Double-Flex Solution. Floating Shaft CD Couplings should be considered in very large DBSE applications.
A Double-Flex CD Coupling has two disc-packs, which allows it to handle a much greater amount of parallel misalignment. Also, by using two open-arm disc-packs, the design of the Double-Flex CD Coupling greatly reduces the reaction loads on the connected equipment.
Other than the misalignment capacities, in some cases the DBSE (distance between shaft ends) will determine whether you should use the shorter Single-Flex or the longer Double-Flex Solution. Floating Shaft CD Couplings should be considered in very large DBSE applications.
Why is there a continuous and a peak torque rating listed in the specifications?
The continuous torque rating for a CD Coupling is a torque the coupling can operate at for normal operating conditions (24/7/365). The peak torque rating for a CD Coupling is for intermittent torque spikes (start-up, e-stop, etc.) that may occur infrequently. Exceeding the continuous torque rating of a CD coupling on a frequent basis will shorten the life of the coupling.
What if I have an extended distance between my prime mover and my driven load?
Zero-Max offers custom designs as well as a full line of Floating Shaft CD Couplings that can be made to accommodate longer distances between the shaft ends (DBSE). Depending on the speed and torque of the application, spans of up to 15 feet or more can be accommodated. Please reference our online catalog, website, or contact the factory for details.
What is the minimum shaft engagement on a CD Coupling with clamping hubs?
Ideally, the shaft will engage the entire length of the hub (dimension “B” in catalog). The shaft can extend past the hub end into the disc-pack area as long as it does not come in contact with the disc-pack (check disc diameter dimension “H” in catalog) or the mating shaft or hub. If the shaft cannot engage the full length of the hub, it must still engage through the entire flexing area of the hub for full torque transmission. This distance is approximately 2/3 - 3/4 of the overall hub length, depending on the size of the coupling. Please contact the factory if you have any questions.
Does Zero-Max manufacture larger couplings than are shown in the catalog?
Yes. Zero-Max has successfully manufactured special coupling designs for higher torque applications than what are shown in our catalog. As one example, we manufacture couplings for Wind Turbines that generate up to 2 MW of power and 33 kNm of torque. Please contact the factory with your application requirements to review larger coupling designs and right-size the coupling for your application.
What are the standard keyway sizes?
The standard keyway sizes are based on AGMA and ISO standards. Please refer to the CD Coupling catalog for a table that lists all standard keyway sizes. Non-standard keyway sizes are also available. Contact the factory for further details.
Can I get custom bores or keyways?
Yes. Any inch bore sizes that fall on a 1/16” increments and metric bore sizes that fall on a whole millimeter increments are standard for CD Couplings. Zero-Max also offers custom bore sizes, as well as splined or tapered bores to meet the needs of your application. Additionally, Zero-Max can manufacture non-standard keyways as well as custom tolerance bores and keyways to meet specific dimensional requirements.
What if I have a higher speed application?
The CD Coupling catalog lists a maximum RPM specification for the various coupling sizes, models, and hub styles. This is a general speed specification that applies to most applications. If your RPM is approaching or exceeding the value listed, contact the factory to discuss your specific application. We will review your application and help determine if a standard CD Coupling will work or help design a special that will. Factors that may be considered for higher-speed operation include dynamic balancing, reducing misalignment, and/or a review of the lifetime requirements.
Can Zero-Max dynamic balance my CD Coupling?
Yes, we can add dynamic balancing to the CD Couplings as needed for applications. Typically, higher speed applications or equipment that is sensitive to vibrations (i.e. test equipment) may benefit from being dynamically balanced. Zero-Max has the technology required to do most coupling balancing jobs in-house, allowing us to offer an economical option with a faster turnaround.
Why consider using an A1C versus an AC style hub?
Both the A1C and AC feature aluminum construction with clamp-style hubs that are available with or without a keyway. However, each style offers its own advantages.
The A1C style hub features an integrated clamping hub that provides the capability to handle the coupling’s peak torque rating for any bore size offered without the need for a key. This design also offers larger bore size capacities compared to the AC style hubs and typically has faster Delivery.
The AC style hub is dimensionally identical to the steel clamp-style hub, but it offers a lower weight and inertia advantage due to the use of the lighter weight aluminum material. Like the steel clamp-style hub, this design has a separate shaft collar which results in a smaller bore size capacity compared to the A1C style hubs and may require a key to handle the coupling’s peak torque rating. Contact the factory for further details.
The A1C style hub features an integrated clamping hub that provides the capability to handle the coupling’s peak torque rating for any bore size offered without the need for a key. This design also offers larger bore size capacities compared to the AC style hubs and typically has faster Delivery.
The AC style hub is dimensionally identical to the steel clamp-style hub, but it offers a lower weight and inertia advantage due to the use of the lighter weight aluminum material. Like the steel clamp-style hub, this design has a separate shaft collar which results in a smaller bore size capacity compared to the A1C style hubs and may require a key to handle the coupling’s peak torque rating. Contact the factory for further details.
Can my CD Coupling support a radial load?
The Single-Flex CD Coupling can support a limited amount of radial load. Please contact the factory for assistance in sizing the coupling if your application requires supporting a radial load.
Can the CD Coupling be used in vertical applications?
Yes. The CD Coupling can be used to connect shafts that are oriented vertically. If using a Floating Shaft CD Coupling in a vertical oriented application, please contact the factory with the speed, torque, misalignment, and DBSE (distance between shaft ends) of your application to confirm sizing.
Is there any maintenance required for my CD Coupling?
There are no scheduled maintenance intervals for the CD Couplings, and many of our CD Couplings run indefinitely in the application. However, any jam-ups, overloads, or crashes on the equipment may require replacement of the disc packs. It is also recommended to re-torque the disc pack bolts after several hours of operation following installation, where possible.
When installing or re-torquing the bolts, it is critical that the disc-pack bolts be torqued-to-spec per the Installation Instructions. This is essential for proper operation and long life of the coupling. The Instructions, including the recommended tightening torques, can be found under the “Downloads” section of our website.
Preventive maintenance considerations would involve periodically visually inspecting the coupling when the machine is shut down. Things to look for include anything abnormal, such as obviously loose bolts, or any delamination of the disc pack. Note that if there is any delamination showing, it does not mean the disc pack will imminently fail; however, it would be best practice to replace the disc-pack at the next opportunity.
When installing or re-torquing the bolts, it is critical that the disc-pack bolts be torqued-to-spec per the Installation Instructions. This is essential for proper operation and long life of the coupling. The Instructions, including the recommended tightening torques, can be found under the “Downloads” section of our website.
Preventive maintenance considerations would involve periodically visually inspecting the coupling when the machine is shut down. Things to look for include anything abnormal, such as obviously loose bolts, or any delamination of the disc pack. Note that if there is any delamination showing, it does not mean the disc pack will imminently fail; however, it would be best practice to replace the disc-pack at the next opportunity.
Can I replace disc packs in the field?
Yes. CD disc-packs are easily replaced in the field. In most cases, our coupling design offers disc packs that are a drop-out design, meaning you do not need to move the hubs to replace disc packs. The disc pack is also a unitized design, making it easier to handle for removing the old one and installing a new one. Coupling concentricity after disc pack replacement is also ensured by the design of the CD Coupling. Full disc-pack replacement instructions can be found under the “Downloads” section on our website.
What is the minimum order quantity for special versions of the CD Coupling?
There is no minimum quantity for special design couplings. We often design and build special designs for just 1-piece, but can also support custom designs that require 100s or 1000s of pieces. We are happy to discuss your application to understand the requirements and provide a custom design to fit the needs of the application. In almost all cases, there are no upfront Engineering fees involved. Please call to discuss if you need a special design for your application.
Why choose a CD Coupling versus a ServoClass Coupling, or vice versa?
In many cases, the size of coupling needed for the application will determine where a CD Coupling or ServoClass Coupling is a better fit. In general, the size range of the ServoClass Couplings handle the smaller applications in terms of torque, load, and shaft sizes, while the size range of the CD Coupling will handle larger applications. There are several coupling sizes that overlap between the CD and ServoClass Couplings. In those cases, which series is a better fit will depend on the application and requirements such as misalignment, torque, torsional stiffness, vibration, shock, delivery, cost, and more. Contact the factory to discuss your specific requirements.
Where should I use a Single-Flex (SC) versus a Double-Flex (SD) ServoClass Coupling?
Most applications will use the Double-Flex (SC) series of the ServoClass Coupling due to its misalignment capacity.The typical application for this is a 4-bearing system, as illustrated below:
With the 4 bearing systems, the shafts are fully supported and generally have some inevitable amount of misalignment and/or develop misalignment over time. The Double-Flex design readily accommodates any combination of parallel, angular, and axial misalignments and keeps reaction loads low on the connected components.
The Single-Flex (SD) series of the ServoClass Coupling is suited for use where support is needed for one shaft. The typical application for this is a 3 bearing “semi-floating shaft” application, as illustrated below:
The Single-Flex does not allow for parallel misalignment; however, it may also be used where a shorter length is required in an application with a very well piloted connection to eliminate parallel misalignment. Another use of the Single-Flex is to use two of them at either end of a customer-supplied shaft to make a Floating Shaft Coupling to accommodate a larger DBSE (distance between shaft ends).
With the 4 bearing systems, the shafts are fully supported and generally have some inevitable amount of misalignment and/or develop misalignment over time. The Double-Flex design readily accommodates any combination of parallel, angular, and axial misalignments and keeps reaction loads low on the connected components.
The Single-Flex (SD) series of the ServoClass Coupling is suited for use where support is needed for one shaft. The typical application for this is a 3 bearing “semi-floating shaft” application, as illustrated below:
The Single-Flex does not allow for parallel misalignment; however, it may also be used where a shorter length is required in an application with a very well piloted connection to eliminate parallel misalignment. Another use of the Single-Flex is to use two of them at either end of a customer-supplied shaft to make a Floating Shaft Coupling to accommodate a larger DBSE (distance between shaft ends).
Does Zero-Max provide a Floating Shaft version of the ServoClass Coupling?
No. Although a Floating Shaft is not available from the factory, many of our customers build their own Floating Shaft Coupling simply by using (2) Single Disc (SD) series couplings – one attached at each end to a customer-supplied intermediate shaft. This assembly arrangement offers a Floating Shaft Coupling to accommodate a larger DBSE (distance between shaft ends).
What is the maximum operating torque for the ServoClass Coupling?
The operating torque listed for the ServoClass Coupling is the maximum allowable torque for the coupling. Any peak torques or torque spikes anticipated in the application should be considered when sizing to the operating torque listed.
What is the minimum shaft engagement on a ServoClass Coupling hub?
Ideally, the shaft will engage the entire length of the hub (dimension “LB” in catalog). The shaft can also extend past the hub end into the disc-pack area as long as it does not come in contact with the disc-pack (check disc diameter dimension “K” in catalog) or the mating shaft or hub. If the shaft cannot engage the full length of the hub, it must still engage the entire flexing area of the hub for full torque transmission. This distance is approximately 2/3 - 3/4 of the overall hub length, depending on the size of the coupling. Please contact the factory if you have any questions.
Can I get a keyway on the hub bore?
Yes. Although the ServoClass Coupling is a keyless coupling in its standard form, keyways may be added per customer request at a nominal cost adder. Non-standard keyway sizes can also be accommodated in most cases.
Can I get custom bores or keyways?
Yes. Any inch bore sizes that fall on 1/16” increments and metric bore sizes that fall on a whole millimeter increments are standard for ServoClass Couplings. Zero-Max also offers custom bore sizes as well as non-standard keyways and custom tolerance bores and keyways to meet specific dimensional requirements.
Can I mount a non-keyed bore hub on a shaft with a keyway or flat?
Yes. The ServoClass Coupling hub can be mounted on a shaft with an empty keyway or a flat. The transmittable torque may be slightly reduced (due to the loss of the keyway/ flatted surface area for the clamp connection), but this is typically not a concern unless small bore sizes are used. Please contact the factory if you have any questions.
For optimal clamping force, we do recommend the keyway or flat is on the opposite side of the hub from the clamp screw. See diagram below for further details.
For optimal clamping force, we do recommend the keyway or flat is on the opposite side of the hub from the clamp screw. See diagram below for further details.
What if I have a tapered shaft in my application?
We offer tapered adaptors for some of the ServoClass Coupling sizes. The clamp-style hub itself does not allow for clamping onto the taper, however the tapered bore adaptor fits securely in the standard clamping hub bore and has an internal taper to secure it to the tapered shaft. The tapered adaptors have a 1:10 internal taper to match Fanuc servomotor shafts and other shafts having a 1:10 taper. The available tapered adaptor sizes are for an 11mm, 14mm, or 16mm major diameter of the taper.
Can I replace disc elements in the field?
No. Replacement discs are not available since the discs are not field-replaceable. Zero-Max uses purpose-built assembly fixtures at our factory to assemble ServoClass couplings with the concentricity required for optimal performance and life of the Coupling.
Can Zero-Max dynamic balance my ServoClass Coupling?
Yes. We can add dynamic balancing to the ServoClass Couplings as needed for applications. Typically, higher speed applications or equipment that is sensitive to vibrations (i.e. test equipment) may benefit from being dynamically balanced. Zero-Max has the technology required to do most coupling balancing jobs in-house, allowing us to offer an economical option with a faster turnaround.
Can I choose Style "A", "B", or "C" hub combination for my ServoClass Coupling?
No. The hub style combination used is based on the size of the coupling and the bore sizes required. Some ServoClass sizes have a reduced diameter hub for smaller bores that provides a higher clamping force to achieve optimal performance. Not all ServoClass Coupling sizes have a reduced diameter hub. The ServoClass Coupling sizes that have the reduced diameter hub are listed in the catalog, along with the range of bores that use this hub. Bore sizes larger than the maximum bore of the reduced diameter hub will utilize the standard diameter hub.
- Style "A" has (2) reduced diameter hubs
- Style "B" has (1) reduced diameter hub & (1) standard diameter hub
- Style "C" has (2) standard diameter hubs
Why choose a ServoClass Coupling versus a CD Coupling, or vice versa?
In most cases, the size of coupling needed for the application will determine where a ServoClass Coupling is used versus a CD Coupling. In general, the size range of the ServoClass Couplings handle the smaller applications in terms of torque, load, and shaft sizes, while the size range of the CD Coupling will handle larger applications. There are several coupling sizes that overlap between the ServoClass and CD Couplings. In those cases, which series is a better fit will depend on the application and requirements such as misalignment, torque, torsional stiffness, vibration, shock, delivery, cost, and more. Contact the factory to discuss your specific requirements.
Why are Control-Flex Couplings good for Encoders, Tachometers, Resolvers, and other Instrumentation applications?
There are many reasons the Control-Flex Coupling provides exceptional value for encoder and other Instrumentation applications:
- A large minimum to maximum bore range is available. The large bore range helps to keep from oversizing the coupling where it is connected to a small diameter encoder shaft on one side, and a larger diameter machine shaft on the other side.
- Electrical Isolation is inherent in the design of the Control-Flex Couplings due to the construction of the flex member. This electrical isolation eliminates any stray electrical current from passing through the coupling and causing bearing issues in the encoder.
- Low reaction loads and a high misalignment capacity of the Control-Flex. The flex member design keeps the reaction loads minimal for the smaller encoder bearings, which provides longer life for the application, even under a misaligned condition.
- Zero-backlash. This is critical for maintaining positioning accuracy in instrumentation applications.
- Low inertia. This provides a fast and accurate response to acceleration and deceleration on the machine.
- Clamp-style hubs. This proven connection method maintains an effective, solid shaft connection during starting, stopping, reversing, etc. on the machine. This style of hub offers a stronger and more reliable shaft connection than a traditional setscrew design.
Can I get a keyway on the hub bore?
Yes. Although the Clamp-Style Control-Flex Coupling is a keyless coupling in its standard form, and keyways are not required for proper connection, keyways may be added per customer request at a nominal cost adder. Non-standard keyway sizes can also be accommodated in most cases. Also note that most Control-Flex Coupling applications tend to have lower torque requirements where the keyless hub can be clamped overtop an empty keyway and still provide ample transmittable torque.
Please Note: Bolted-Style Control-Flex Couplings utilize set-screw hubs with keyways. In this case, standard keyway sizes are based on AGMA standards, and the metric keyway sizes are based on ISO standards – see catalog chart for a listing of the standard sizes.
Please Note: Bolted-Style Control-Flex Couplings utilize set-screw hubs with keyways. In this case, standard keyway sizes are based on AGMA standards, and the metric keyway sizes are based on ISO standards – see catalog chart for a listing of the standard sizes.
How do I size a Schmidt Offset Coupling?
There is a selection procedure outlined in the Schmidt Coupling catalog available through the “Downloads” section of this website. This procedure factors in the amount of offset needed for the application (whether it is a fixed or variable offset), the horsepower and speed of the application, the bearing lifetime, and the hub bore size requirements in selecting the right Offset Coupling for a specified lifetime in the application.
The coupling specifications list a maximum torque capacity for the coupling; however, that is a static torque capacity and represents the strength of the coupling without concern for bearing lifetime. Sizing the coupling using the selection procedure outlined in the catalog will ensure the Offset Coupling selected will perform for the desired lifetime in the specified application.
Please call the factory with any questions or for assistance in selecting the right Offset Coupling for your application.
The coupling specifications list a maximum torque capacity for the coupling; however, that is a static torque capacity and represents the strength of the coupling without concern for bearing lifetime. Sizing the coupling using the selection procedure outlined in the catalog will ensure the Offset Coupling selected will perform for the desired lifetime in the specified application.
Please call the factory with any questions or for assistance in selecting the right Offset Coupling for your application.
Why can’t I operate my Schmidt Offset Coupling at zero parallel misalignment or at its full parallel misalignment rating?
The center disc of the Offset Coupling is supported by 3 or more links on either side, which allows for its large misalignment range. Within the allowable offset range, the angle between these links defines the position of the center disc and provides proper support and stability for it. As you approach zero parallel misalignment, or to the Offset Coupling’s full parallel misalignment rating, the angle between the links is compromised, they do not properly support the center disc, and reaction loads on the connected components are greatly increased in this condition. Strict adherence to the minimum and maximum parallel misalignment ratings listed in the catalog will ensure smooth operation of the Offset Coupling without inducing any sideloads or reaction loads on the connected components.
What is the difference between the L100, L200, and L300 series of Schmidt Offset Couplings?
Each of these series of Offset Couplings is constructed differently to provide unique benefits for a particular application. For assistance with which coupling may be right for your application, please call or e-mail us at the factory.
- The L100 series uses oil-impregnated links generally used in light-duty applications having smaller torque values, smaller shaft diameters, and smaller amounts of parallel offset.
- The L200 series uses rolling element needle bearings with steel links. This coupling will handle much larger torque capacities and provide long life in industrial applications. This coupling may be re-lubricated over its lifetime and offers a high horsepower/torque capacity along with moderate speed and moderate parallel offset capability.
- The L300 series uses rolling element needle bearings with aluminum links. These longer aluminum links provide higher speed capacity, higher amounts of parallel offset, and offer a moderate torque capacity in comparison to the L200 series.
Does the Schmidt Offset Coupling apply reaction loads on the connected components?
No. The Offset Coupling does not impart any reaction loads or sideloads on the connected components, provided it is operated within the minimum and maximum parallel offset limits listed in the catalog. The multiple links in the Offset Coupling design balance the torque forces so no reaction loads are present in the application. The only sideload to be accounted for would be the weight of the coupling itself.
What is the backlash amount in the Schmidt Offset Coupling?
The standard L200 and L300 series offer 0.010” – 0.015” of radial play at the outside diameter of the Offset Coupling.This radial play is needed for bearing clearances internal to the coupling. The same amount of radial play pertains to any size Offset Coupling, so larger diameter Offset Couplings will then have less angular rotational backlash than smaller Offset Couplings.
If greater precision is required, we do offer a “Low Backlash” version which reduces the backlash value to 0.003” - 0.005” at the outside diameter of the coupling as well as an “Ultra-Low Backlash” version which reduces the backlash value to 0.002” - 0.003” at the outside diameter of the coupling. These special versions must be specified.If greater precision is required, or to discuss your specific requirements, please contact the factory for a detailed application review.
If greater precision is required, we do offer a “Low Backlash” version which reduces the backlash value to 0.003” - 0.005” at the outside diameter of the coupling as well as an “Ultra-Low Backlash” version which reduces the backlash value to 0.002” - 0.003” at the outside diameter of the coupling. These special versions must be specified.If greater precision is required, or to discuss your specific requirements, please contact the factory for a detailed application review.
- Please Note: The L100 series does not have as low backlash as the L200 and L300 series and is generally not recommended for use in high precision applications.
What is the expected lifetime of a Schmidt Offset Coupling?
Lifetime of a Schmidt Offset Coupling is typically described in L10 hours.When the Offset Coupling is sized and selected for an application, a design lifetime is used for the selection. Provided the next smaller or larger coupling will provide an acceptable offset range for the application:
- Going smaller in size from the selected coupling will result in reduced lifetime.
- Going larger in size from the selected coupling will result in increased lifetime.
What are the standard keyway sizes?
The standard keyway sizes are based on AGMA standards, and the metric keyway sizes are based on ISO standards – see catalog chart for a listing of the standard sizes.
Do I need to lubricate my Schmidt Offset Coupling?
Yes. The L200 and L300 series utilize needle bearings and do require periodic re-lubrication with grease. Both the L200 and L300 series couplings have a low-profile grease fitting that is compatible with an Alemite Z-737 adaptor for a grease gun. The frequency of re-lubrication can vary based on the coupling used as well as the operating speed of the coupling. See the Instruction Sheet for your Schmidt Offset Coupling part number for more details. The Instruction Sheets can be found under the “Downloads” section of this website.
- Please Note:The L100 series couplings utilize oil impregnated links, and no re-lubrication is required.However, periodically adding a drop of oil to each link may help to extend lifetime.
How do I size a Schmidt Inline Coupling?
There is a selection procedure outlined for the Inline Coupling in the Schmidt Coupling catalog available through the “Downloads” section of this website.This procedure factors in the horsepower and speed of the application and applies a service factor to the resulting torque to obtain a design torque for the selection process. Please call the factory with any questions or for assistance in selecting the right Inline Coupling for your application.
What is the backlash amount in the Schmidt Inline Coupling?
The standard L400 series Inline Couplings offer 0.010” – 0.015” of radial play at the outside diameter of the Inline Coupling. This radial play is needed for bearing clearances internal to the coupling.The same amount radial play pertains to any size Inline Coupling, so larger diameter Inline Couplings will then have less angular rotational backlash than smaller Inline Couplings.
If greater precision is required, we do offer a “Low Backlash” version which reduces the backlash value to 0.003” - 0.005” at the outside diameter of the coupling as well as an “Ultra-Low Backlash” version which reduces the backlash value to 0.002” - 0.003” at the outside diameter of the coupling. These special versions must be specified. If greater precision is required, or to discuss your specific requirements, please contact the factory for a detailed application review.
If greater precision is required, we do offer a “Low Backlash” version which reduces the backlash value to 0.003” - 0.005” at the outside diameter of the coupling as well as an “Ultra-Low Backlash” version which reduces the backlash value to 0.002” - 0.003” at the outside diameter of the coupling. These special versions must be specified. If greater precision is required, or to discuss your specific requirements, please contact the factory for a detailed application review.
What is the expected lifetime of a Schmidt Inline Coupling?
Since the bearings in the Inline Coupling design swivel, rather than fully rotate in the coupling, bearing lifetime is greatly increased and generally not an issue. Due to this unique type of service the bearings see during operation, we do not have a lifetime calculation available.
What are the standard key sizes?
The standard keyway sizes are based on AGMA standards, and the metric keyway sizes are based on ISO standards – see catalog chart for a listing of the standard sizes.
Do I need to lubricate my Schmidt Inline Coupling?
Yes. The L400C series have needle bearings and do require periodic re-lubrication with grease. The frequency of re-lubrication can vary based on the coupling used as well as the operating speed of the coupling. See the Instruction Sheet for your Schmidt Inline Coupling part number for more details. The Instruction Sheets can be found under the “Downloads” section of this website.
- Please Note: We do offer a special L400D series that use Duralon bearings that do not require relubrication. Please contact the factory if you are interested in this bearing option
How do I size a Schmidt 5-D Coupling?
There is a selection procedure for the 5-D Coupling outlined in the Schmidt Coupling catalog available through the “Downloads” section of this website. This procedure factors in the horsepower and speed of the application and applies a service factor to the resulting torque to obtain a design torque for the selection process. Please call the factory with any questions or for assistance in selecting the right Inline Coupling for your application.
What is the backlash amount in the Schmidt 5-D Coupling?
The standard L500 series 5-D Couplings offer 0.010” – 0.015” of radial play at the outside diameter of the coupling. This radial play is needed for bearing clearances internal to the coupling. The same amount radial play pertains to any size of 5-D Coupling, so larger diameter 5-D Couplings will then have less angular rotational backlash than smaller 5-D Couplings. Due to the bearing style used in this coupling, reduced backlash options are not available.
What is the expected lifetime of a Schmidt 5-D Coupling?
Since the bearings in the 5-D Coupling design swivel, rather than fully rotate in the coupling, bearing lifetime is greatly increased and generally not an issue. Due to this unique type of service the bearings see during operation, we do not have a lifetime calculation available.
What are the standard keyway sizes?
The standard keyway sizes are based on AGMA standards, and the metric keyway sizes are based on ISO standards – see catalog chart for a listing of the standard sizes.
Do I need to lubricate my 5-D Coupling?
Yes. The 500S series couplings do require periodic re-lubrication with grease. The frequency of re-lubrication can vary based on the coupling used as well as the operating speed of the coupling. See the Instruction Sheet for your Schmidt 5-D Coupling part number for more details. The Instruction Sheets can be found under the “Downloads” section of this website.
Learn More About Flexible Shaft Couplings from Zero-Max
We offer a wide selection of flexible shaft couplings for high-performance applications. Contact us to discuss your application, request customization, or find your local sales representative today.