Beam Couplings

A beam coupling (or helical coupling) is a single-piece flexible connector for shafts, machined from one block of metal with spiral cuts to create flexible "beams," allowing it to transmit torque while absorbing angular, parallel, and axial misalignment without backlash, making it ideal for precision motion control in robotics, encoders, and pumps where error-free, smooth motion is critical. 

How it Works

Single-Piece Construction: Machined from a solid cylinder, creating a monolithic part with helical slots.

Flexibility: The spiral cuts act as flexible beams, bending to accommodate shaft movements (angular, parallel offset, axial).

Zero Backlash: Because it's one piece, there are no gaps or play (backlash) like in multi-part couplings, ensuring precise positioning. 

Key Features & Types

Customizable: The flexibility can be tuned by changing the cut's lead (pitch) and number of starts.

Materials: Commonly aluminum or stainless steel, but also titanium.

Single vs. Multi-Beam: Single-beam offers great angular flexibility; multi-beam handles more parallel misalignment.

Common Applications

Motion Control: Servo motors, robotics, and automated machinery.

Instrumentation: Connecting shafts for encoders and sensors.

Pumps: Light-duty pumps and other general mechanical systems. 

Ideal For

Precision positioning systems.

Applications needing error-free transmission.

Low to moderate torque, high-speed, or low-load tasks. 

When to Use

When precise, backlash-free motion is required.

To connect misaligned shafts in a compact, single unit.