FEATURE


CLUTCHES, BRAKES & COUPLINGS


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MOTION CONTROL COUPLINGS: SINGLE SOURCING VERSUS SOURCING


FROM MULTIPLE MANUFACTURERS Motion control couplings are one of the most common industrial


components. So, with a diverse base of manufacturers to choose from, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) face many options when selecting a coupling. But while this supplier diversity is a benefit during the design phase, it can present supply chain problems to OEMs once machines reach production volume – for example, inconsistent quality, poor service, minimal global support, long lead times, and


constantly changing delivery dates. In the last few years, these problems have often caused companies to reevaluate their supply chain. Chris Gumas, Ruland’s director of customer experience, explains


challenges, many OEMs see supply chain improvements without compromising system performance. Most coupling manufacturers, even big ones, choose to specialise in one or two types of couplings. While they may offer a wider range of ‘standard’ styles within the one or two types, these highly engineered solutions must be offered to accommodate for performance deficiencies that are solved by standard couplings not in their offering. As an example, a manufacturer of


W


beam couplings may have an expansive range of stainless steel options which offer higher torque and torsional stiffness than their aluminium options. Stainless steel beam couplings have high inertia, can limit system performance, and can be significantly more expensive than jaw or disc couplings offered by other manufacturers. A comprehensive motion control coupling


line offers more benefits to the OEM than just the convenience of a one stop shop, though the associated time savings should not be understated. Many systems, such as those found in semiconductor, solar, and test and measurement equipment, will require multiple couplings that perform different functions – wafer handling, ball bonding, optical inspection, etc. As one or two coupling styles cannot adequately meet the varied needs of each type of system, the OEM is forced to decide between sourcing couplings from multiple manufacturers or single sourcing. When single sourcing, the OEM must weigh the risk of that manufacturer


hile switching to a single source for couplings presents different


Jumping from one motion control


coupling manufacturer to another creates transactional relationships with no guarantee of quality or service. OEMs that consolidate their supply chains can form collaborative relationships with the manufacturer and increase their chances of long-term success. By identifying a coupling


Different types


of Ruland servo


couplings:


jaw, oldham, beam, disc and bellows


coupling (clockwise)


consistently meeting lead times, maintaining quality standards, and staying in business. Working with a trusted manufacturer can often alleviate these concerns.


DECIDING WHEN TO SWITCH The best time for an OEM designer to consider switching to a single manufacturer is during new design work. This gives them the opportunity to test the product, customer service, and logistics capabilities of the new manufacturer. There will also be no impact to existing operations. If a mid-cycle switch must be made due


to issues with existing suppliers, there is cost associated with retesting and possibly recertification. The OEM will rarely make a mid-cycle switch unless there are severe quality issue or lead time issues that cause consistent delays in delivering equipment.


38 DESIGN SOLUTIONS NOVEMBER 2025


manufacturer the OEM trusts, and sticking with them, they can enjoy the benefits of consistent product quality, service, and lead times.


Ruland Manufacturing Co. www.ruland.com


Acorn Industrial Services T: 0800 8766 441 www.acorn-ind.co.uk/ruland


Feature


Ruland disc coupling, beam coupling and bellows coupling on shaft (from top down)


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