What Are Gear Couplings?

To understand gear couplings, let’s start with what a coupling is. A coupling connects two shafts to transmit power from one to the other. The type of coupling depends on how complex the connection needs to be, the amount of power to be transferred, and the operating conditions. Gear couplings are a type of flexible coupling that can handle very high torque. There are various types of gear couplings, each serving a specific purpose.

Gear Couplings Explained

Gear couplings are often used in situations where high torque and power are needed. They can handle more torque than Jaw, Pin and Bush and Tyre, which produce less vibration. A gear coupling consists of two hubs with teeth that fit together, connected by a sleeve.

These couplings can adjust for small misalignments between shafts. They are usually used in pairs to connect machinery that is a bit apart. Most gear couplings need lubrication, but some lighter-duty types use materials like nylon that don’t need lubrication.

Different Types of Gear Couplings

Full Gear Couplings

Full gear couplings, are used in many industrial applications. They can handle large misalignments and have a high capacity for end float, which is the ability to move along the axis of the shafts.

Half Gear Half Rigid Couplings

These couplings have one flexible half and one rigid half. The flexible half is like a standard gear coupling with an outer sleeve and inner hub, while the rigid half has a flanged hub.

Rigid Couplings

Rigid couplings connect shafts that are perfectly aligned. They are the simplest type of gear coupling and are used where precise alignment is needed, as misalignment can affect performance and durability.

Shear Pin Couplings

Shear pin couplings are used in situations where machinery might get overloaded or jammed. If the load gets too high, the pin breaks, stopping the machine and preventing damage.

Continuous Sleeve Gear Couplings

These couplings have shaft ends that butt together and are enclosed in a sleeve. The sleeve is usually made of Nylon but can also be made of Copper.