DS-MAY26-PG37_Layout 1 19/05/2026 11:03 Page 1
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Feature
CLUTCHES, BRAKES & COUPLINGS
FEATURE
HOw yOUR HIGH-pRECISION START-STOp AppLICATION CAN
bENEfIT fROM jAw COUpLINGS Ruland Manufacturing examines how
zero-backlash jaw couplings can meet requirements in a range of industries
F
or start-and-stop applications, flexible couplings with tolerance to misalignment, effective torque transmission and vibration
dampening are key. Choosing the correct coupling is therefore essential here. Zero-backlash jaw couplings meet these
demands. They are suitable for systems with hard starts, hard stops, or reversals. Furthermore, they maintain high precision for accuracy and repeatability in demanding sectors such as robotics, medical, semiconductor, and test and measurement.
Design consiDerations To select a jaw coupling, the magnitude and
frequency of starts/stops, rotational speed and overall system design, all need to be evaluated. Jaw couplings achieve zero-backlash operation via a proprietary curved jaw profile on the hub tenons, press-fitted to the spider. This concentrates forces at the spider’s centre, enhancing elastomer performance. Raised contact points on the spider limbs maintain proper hub spacing, ensuring electrical isolation and full misalignment capability.
Key capabilities of jaw couplings • Torque transmission: Capable of moderate-to- high torque, depending on the chosen insert.
They handle significant torque variations and intermittent peak loads effectively.
• Shock absorption and vibration dampening: Flexible spider inserts provide damping, reducing stress from abrupt motions and extending component life.
• Highly customisable: You can combine clamp or set screw hubs with various bore options (inch, metric, keyed, keyless).
Three-piece assembly: Curved jaw coupling from
Ruland with flexible spider insert
• Spider shore hardness (three durometers available): Users can tailor performance to the application.
• Fail-safe design: If the spider fails, the jaws interlock to transmit power directly, enabling safe shutdown for maintenance.
a reliable solution For start-stop and high-precision applications across medical, semiconductor, industrial, and robotics sectors, zero-backlash jaw couplings from Ruland offer reliable torque transmission, effective dampening, and customisable options to match specific machine requirements.
Ruland Manufacturing Co.
www.ruland.com
Acorn Industrial Services T: 0800 8766 441
www.acorn-ind.co.uk/ruland
Ruland offers spiders in three durometers: the shore hardness of the spider determines coupling performance
www.designsolutionsmag.co.uk MAY 2026 DESIGN SOLUTIONS 37
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