Based on 2021 data, manufacturers contributed $2.71 trillion annually to the United States economy. Manufacturing dramatically impacts the economy, but companies cannot do what’s necessary without the right equipment and parts.
Elements like universal joints are necessary to use and run industrial machinery and heavy equipment effectively. In addition, these can aid in the prevention of downtime and other problems within different industries.
Not sure what their applications are? Keep reading to learn more about the details.
Uses of Universal Joints
Universal joints are used in various machines that have long rotating shafts. Often you can find joints between the rear driveshafts and the transmission.
Some of the typical applications of universal joints include the following:
- Electronics
- Medical and optical devices
- Aircraft
- Control mechanisms
- Textile machinery
- Tool drives
Universal joints are not limited to the above applications. The universal joint material can impact the quality of use.
Universal Joint Materials
Universal joints are available in thermoplastic body members or steel. Those made of thermoplastic body members have significant advantages, such as:
- Lightweight
- Negligible backlash
- Corrosion-resistant
- High-speed operation
These are typically used in light industrial applications.
Steel joints have a maximum load-carrying capacity for a given size.
Universal joints can be made from almost any material which helps in their application. Stainless steel and naval brass are common materials as well.
For particular construction usage, ball-jointed universals are also available. These are used in high-speed operation and for carrying large torques.
Types of Universal Joints
Plenty of universal joint options can help with different applications. However, in practice, some universal joints are better than others for specific projects.
For example, variable velocity joints are not feasible in automobiles because the drive shaft stays inclined. However, cross, spider, ring, ball, and trunnion types are all forms of variable velocity joints.
The other types of universal joints include:
- Single joint
- Double joint
- Constant velocity joints
Rzeppa, Bendix Weiss, and Tracta are all joints categorized under constant velocity joints.
The three parts of a universal joint are the spider, the driving yoke, and the driven yoke.
Should You Use Universal Joints?
There are many types of joints, but universal joints are unique. As a result, they have many advantages for users.
Some of the benefits of using universal joints are:
- Flexible universal coupling
- Facilitates toque transmission between shafts
- Cost-effective
- Simple to assemble and dismantle
- Permits angular displacements
To ensure toque transmission efficiency is high, it’s important to lubricate the joint properly. In addition, proper maintenance is essential to avoid wear and tear of the joints.
The Bottom Line
Universal joints are couplings or joints that connect rigid rods whose axes are bent to each other. They are commonly used in shafts that complete rotary motion.
Various industries can use universal joints and reap their benefits. For your high-demand industrial applications that require a fix for drive shaft misalignment, choose Kor-Pak.
We are the leading distributor of Ameridrives products and can supply you with their famous industrial couplings. Contact us now for more information.