The Fundamentals Of A Universal Joint Cross

The universal joint cross or u-joint is a component that establishes a positive mechanical connection between multiple rotating shafts. You need to know that these shafts never remain parallel to each other. Instead, they must intersect. The ultimate purpose of these components is to transmit motion or power. Specific product variants can deliver both at the same time, whether in automobiles or industrial machinery. Universal Joint Cross Manufacturers can offer you different types of u-joints, but the most commonly used variant is the Hooke joint or Cardan joint. It has two yokes connecting to one on each shaft. A cross-shaped intermediate member called the spider keeps them connected.

Use cases

A few of the typical applications of u-joints include aircrafts, electrical appliances, instruments, electronics, control mechanisms, optical devices, medical apparatuses, radios, textile machinery, sewing machines, and many others. Manufacturers resort to various materials to craft u-joints. That’s why you’ll find products made of thermoplastic, as well as stainless steel. While the products made of steel have a specific load-bearing capacity, it depends on the size of the joint itself. Thermoplastic products, however, are perfect for light industrial applications. Apart from having a self-lubricating feature, they have the power to accommodate high-speed operations. As you can probably guess, thermoplastic variants are more popular than stainless steel products.

Features

The main feature of a u-joint is the non-uniformity of motion transmission. Also, the angular velocity ratio between the output and input shafts can differ cyclically at two cycles per revolution of the input shaft. Apart from this fluctuation, there’s also the matter concerning the corresponding angular acceleration issue that ends up increasing with the angle of operation. It can increase to as much as fifteen percent of the peak angular velocity, especially when the operating angle is about thirty degrees. While selecting products, you mustn’t forget to consider the fluctuations of inertia torque, system performance standards, and static torque.

Transmission non-uniformity issues

Eliminating the non-uniformity problem is perfectly possible if you use two properly phased u-joints in series. In these situations, velocity differences caused by one may cancel the other. This condition results in constant angular velocity ratio transmission between two shafts. However, the fluctuation of the angular velocity of the intermediate shaft is something you won’t be able to avoid, regardless of the circumstances. Furthermore, two u-joints kept in series can also permit the coupling of two laterally displaced shafts. It’s crucial to state here that a single Cardan joint remains limited to intersecting shafts.

Perks and drawbacks

Just like everything else in this world, the products offered by Universal Joint Shaft Suppliers have specific perks and drawbacks. Here are a few of them.

1. The perks

Angular displacement is possible with them.
The side-thrust of the bearings will below.
They remain stiff, even during high torsion conditions.
They have an incredibly high torque capacity.

2. The drawbacks

Constant lubrication is mandatory to reduce wear and tear.
Backlash may become uncontrollable.
Every shaft has to be on the same plane.
Velocity fluctuation and acceleration will increase with operational angle.

Conclusion

In the end, you simply need to make sure that you choose a reliable and reputable dealer of u-joints if you expect to use the best products.

Report this Page