In this article, we learn what is flange coupling and its function, construction, working, Types of flange couplings, applications of flange couplings, advantages of flange couplings, and disadvantages of flange couplings.
What Is Flange Coupling?
Flange coupling is a rigid type of coupling and a flange coupling is used to connect two perfectly aligned shafts.
It consists of two cast iron flanges, one keyed to the driver shaft and the other to the driven shaft.
For proper alignment, the end of one shaft may enter into the recess provided in the flange attached to the other shaft.
Generally, two flanges are coupled together by using nuts and bolts. The number of bolts used is usually three, four, or six.
For the safety of the operator, protected types of shafts are commonly used.
There are two keys in this coupling which are staggered at a right angle along the circumference of the shafts.
Both flanges are attached together with a number of nuts and screws to complete the process of transmitting force.
During operation, the coupling ensures no interruption of the shaft. However, some couplings have torque limits, and similar limits can cause flats or cut shafts if they exceed a certain point.
They are mainly used in pipeline systems operating in high-pressure atmospheres. Therefore, these two pipes or tubes must end together and the connection method is inherently very robust.
Additionally, the ingredients that pass through these industrial pipes are sometimes really dangerous and should be used under strict insurance.
To ensure the most extreme safety, the parts used are usually manufactured using reinforced materials such as steel and alloys.
Both of these materials are surprisingly robust, with the tenacity to ensure that any pipeline used in your business will not withstand leaks of any kind at any of the flanged intersections.
Flange couplings are typically used in pressurized funnel frameworks where two pipe or tube finishes must meet.
Flange coupling interface strategies are usually tight, either considering the weight of the material, or the sometimes dangerous nature of the material.
A high-string tally nut and screw combination is used to check the flange coupling setup.
These stray pieces are typically manufactured using tempered steel or amalgam to reduce quality and are secured to the most extreme levels to ensure that the funneling framework does not spill out at the intersection of the flanges.
Flange Coupling Drawing
The Function of Flange Couplings
Flange Couplings are used to connect two shafts which are perfectly in axial alignment for transmitting power.
Construction of Flange Couplings
- Flange Coupling consists of two flanges mounted on the shafts with the help of keys.
- The flanges are connected together by means of bolts arranged on a circle concentric to the shaft.
- One of the flanges has a projected portion and the other has a corresponding recess.
Working of Flange Couplings
- Power is transmitted from the driving shaft to the flange through the key.
- Then it is further transmitted from the driving flange to the driven flange through bolts.
- Again power is transmitted from the driven flange to the driven shaft through the key.
Types of Flange Couplings | Flange Coupling Types
After purchasing a labor-intensive and expensive motor and pump, the need for a coupling arises. This is because both needs to be properly connected and used properly while protecting other components at the same time.
Coupling both shafts is unavoidable, and it’s easier if they align seamlessly and mechanical vibrations don’t move the shafts.
There are usually three types of flange couplings. They can be classified as protected, unprotected, and marine flange couplings.
1. Protected Type Flange Coupling or Protective Type Flange Coupling or Flange Coupling Protected Type
If you want to protect, this kind of flange coupling, protruding nuts and screws are shielded by flanges on both parts of the coupling. This kind of course of action helps avoid worker risks.
2. Marine Flange Coupling
For marine flange couplings, the flange is integrally formed with the shaft. The circumference of the shaft determines the number of bolts to use. It ranges from 4 to 12 volts. The elongated bolts in these types of flange couplings are used to hold the shafts together.
3. Unprotected Flange Coupling
Describing unprotected flange couplings, each shaft is inserted into the main flange using a keyway on both shafts and a security key that modifies the required flange of the machine. Flanges are integrated with the help of bolts and screws.
For these types of couplings, approximately 3-6 screws are used to fix the flanges. Keyways can create gaps and affect flange couplings. If you want to relax the equivalent, the key is balanced at the correct point along the circumference of the shaft.
4. Bush Pin Flange Coupling
A bushed-pin type flange coupling is used for the slightly imperfect alignment of two shafts.
This is a modified version of the protective flange joint. This type of coupling has a pin and works with a coupling bolt. A rubber or leather bushing is used over the pin. The coupling has two halves of him that differ in structure. The pin is tight with a nut on one of the flanges and loses on the other. This coupling is used to connect shafts with slight misalignment, angular misalignment, or misalignment. In this coupling, rubber bushings absorb shocks and vibrations during operation. This type of coupling is mainly used to couple electric motors and machines.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Flange Coupling
Advantages of Flange Couplings
- Flange couplings are simple in construction.
- Flange couplings are easy to assemble and disassemble.
- Flange couplings have high torque transmitting capacity.
- Flange couplings are easy to design and manufacture.
Disadvantages of Flange Couplings
- If there is a small misalignment between the shafts, then flange couplings cannot be used.
- Compared to muff couplings, flange couplings require more radial space.
- This coupling is used only when the motion is free from shocks and vibrations.
Applications of Flange Couplings or Use of Flange Coupling (Flange Coupling Applications or Flange Coupling Use)
Some of the application of flange couplings are mentioned below:
- A flange coupling is used for connecting the electric motor to the pump or the electric motor to the compressor.
- Also, a flange coupling is used for heavy loads and in long shafts.