Although numerous methods exist for coupling two components, choosing the best option for the intended application requires an understanding of all available technologies. For example, when clamping a hub onto a shaft or axle, splined or keyway-based couplings are a popular choice. Another traditional method of connecting gears to shafts involves shrink fitting, which uses temperature differences between mated parts to create an interference fit that holds the parts together. Welding is another option, although it is a more permanent solution than a coupling device.
另一种方法是使用锁定组件，在成本，可靠性，污染阻力以及安装和拆卸方面，它比其他耦合选择具有多种优势。了解简单的设计，主要功能和锁定组件的好处将帮助您确定它们是否在下一个耦合应用程序中工作。
HOW LOCKING ASSEMBLIES OPERATE
Locking assemblies are installed internally between the shaft and the hub. They feature a variety of designs consisting of either two, three, or four rings and have inner and outer rings; top, bottom, and outer rings; or inner, outer, rear, and front rings.
收紧锁螺丝的扭矩扳手brings the rings together, compressing the inner ring onto the shaft while pushing the outer ring out into the hub. This applies pressure to the inside of the hub and secures it to the shaft using a friction-fit press connection. The resulting fit can handle extremely high forces, making it a great choice for light and heavy-duty applications alike.
Due to an even distribution of compression forces around the shaft circumference, locking assembly couplings inherently prevent misalignment and offer maximum reliability with a strong and secure connection. Ringfeder’s locking assemblies use standard socket-head screws and tighten with standard tools. No additional machining or fitting is required. When it comes time for removal, disassembly is simple. After loosening the locking screws, the assembly self-releases, and the hub and shaft can move freely for adjustment, removal, or replacement as required. Depending on the type of locking assembly, you may need to use jacking screws to separate the rings.
DESIGN FEATURES AND BENEFITS
为了了解锁定组件的优势，将它们与其他两个部分耦合的方法进行比较是有帮助的。例如，当使用传统的花键或键控轴时，零件必须完美对齐。这种方法不仅具有加工交配零件的额外费用，还会产生弱点或应力浓度因子。所有负载都载于钥匙，使其成为连接中最弱点。锁定组件并非如此，在对齐方面，这更宽容，在安装过程中不需要相同的精度。
由于轴周围和轮毂周围内部压缩力的平均分布，锁定组件耦合固有地防止了错位，并以牢固且安全的连接提供了最大的可靠性。由于与键合或串起的耦合相比，锁定组件在轴周围和轮毂内均匀分散，因此锁定组件可以处理相同大小的轴的负载。因此，轴上的应力要低得多，因为它们由锁定组件均匀分布。这种优雅耦合设计的一些最重要的好处包括：
使用方便。Simplified installation and operation are notable advantages of locking assemblies. For example, in heavy-duty applications in which couplings can weigh as much as two tons, attempting to align and engage keyways during installation can be a difficult, frustrating and dangerous task. With locking assemblies, no stops, steps, keyways or splines are required; hubs can be located and locked into position at any point on the shaft. This means maximum positioning adjustability and much simpler and faster installation compared to keyways and splines.
With Ringfeder’s standard locking assembly series, high transmission values are possible: By varying the screw tightening torque, the assembly can easily be adapted to the design specification. Simplified manufacturing is another hallmark of working with Ringfeder locking assemblies. Only plain shaft and bore diameters with easily achievable surface finishes and tolerances are required. The entire system is more economical compared to using parts that involve extensive machining to achieve the same level of reliability and torque transmission.
Fast installation.The locking assembly mounting process is very straightforward. Ringfeder’s locking assemblies use standard screws and
tighten with standard tools, requiring no additional machining or fitting. Screws are tightened in a star/cross pattern, in quarter-turn increments until the recommended torque is achieved. Installation is therefore much easier than using keyways or splines that must be lined up perfectly, or in shrink-fit approaches where heating and/or cooling equipment fits parts together by creating a temperature differential.
Using such equipment adds more cost to the joining process and creates safety concerns with the risk of burns and other injuries. Locking assemblies require only a standard torque wrench for installation rather than a torch. In other words, a reliable interference fit is created by squeezing rather than heating.
Simple disassembly.When it is time to remove the coupling, disassembly is as simple as it gets. After loosening the locking screws evenly around the shaft with a standard wrench, the locking assembly self-releases, or jacking screws are used depending on design. The hub can then move freely on the shaft for removal or replacement as needed. This process is in stark contrast to shrink fit couplings, which often require several hours of heating with specialized equipment to pry the mated components apart. Additional workers are also typically required for both installation and removal of shrink fit couplings, especially when large sizes are involved.
Long service life.可重复性是考虑的另一个好处。卸下锁定组件后，可能会重复使用几次。一项简单的检查以检查是否需要损坏。通常，唯一需要更换的部分是偶尔的螺钉。应检查所有螺钉的磨损，如果有任何螺钉被拉伸或以其他方式损坏，则应更换它们 - 与购买新耦合相比，这是一种非常经济的替代方法。
Superior materials.Ringfeder的锁定组件由高强度的高强度钢制成。根据应用细节，可以使用不同的材料来实现各种级别的强度，耐腐蚀性和其他规格。选择耦合设备时，材料的表面表面是另一个要考虑的因素，因为摩擦系数（COF）会影响保持功率。Ringfeder的锁定组件具有异常光滑的表面和记录的COF。
Capabilities.锁定组件在轴以及轮毂内的自动中心，由于所使用的拧紧方法，均匀地分配压力。它们还具有出色的同心性，使轮毂和轴围绕中心轴均匀旋转。这使轮毂的重量可以平等分布，并在使用时保持轴和集线器平衡。
Contamination resistance.When the assembly’s locking screws are tightened, contact surfaces are pressed firmly together to prevent dirt and moisture ingress. In contrast, designs with sharp corners, such as splines and keyways, are much more susceptible to contamination.
提供技术援助
For assistance with engineering calculations or customized designs for specialized applications, such as those requiring hollow shafts, Ringfeder’s engineering team is available for advice and consultation. The team can also help determine if a locking assembly is the best option for your next coupling application.
Ringfeder
www.ringfeder.com
Filed Under:Coupling Tips
