Servo Couplings

A servo coupling connects a servo motor to a machine component, transmitting torque with high precision, zero backlash, and torsional stiffness, while also compensating for shaft misalignment, crucial for accurate automation (robotics, CNC) by ensuring smooth, reliable motion control in dynamic, high-speed systems. Key types include metal bellows, disc, and elastomer couplings, each offering unique benefits like extreme stiffness or damping, designed to minimize inertia and vibration for optimal system performance. 

Core Functions & Properties

Torque Transmission: Connects the motor to a driven part (like a ball screw or gear) to transfer rotational power.

Zero-Backlash: Eliminates play in the connection, ensuring precise command-to-motion translation, vital for high accuracy.

Torsional Stiffness: Resists twisting, maintaining accuracy and response in dynamic systems.

Misalignment Compensation: Accommodates slight shaft angular, parallel, or axial shifts without damaging components.

Low Moment of Inertia: Lightweight design allows for quick acceleration and deceleration in high-speed applications. 

Common Types & Examples

Bellows Couplings: Use thin, flexible metal bellows for high torsional stiffness and zero backlash, ideal for precision drives.

Disc Couplings: Transmit torque through thin metal discs, offering high stiffness with low inertia, but can be delicate.

Elastomer/Spider Couplings: Use a flexible polyurethane element (spider) for damping vibrations and handling misalignment, offering a cost-effective alternative.

Oldham Couplings: Feature a central sliding disc, providing zero backlash and accommodating significant parallel misalignment, often used in stepper systems. 

Where They're Used

Robotics & Automation: For precise positioning and smooth movement.

Machine Tools (CNC): In high-dynamic feed drives.

Semiconductor Manufacturing: For exact positioning of components.

Packaging Machinery: For accurate, repeatable motions.