A new option for industrial drives requiring high torque transmission, vibration damping and straightforward assembly.
High torque is only one part of the coupling selection process. In many industrial drives, the connection between motor and driven equipment also needs to accommodate small shaft alignment errors, damp torsional vibration and remain practical to install within the available space.
The new RC1 pin and bush coupling from R+W brings these requirements together in a robust, compact design. With six sizes covering rated torques from 500 to 15,000 Nm, it adds another option to the range of power transmission solutions available through Tandler Precision.
How does the RC1 work?
The RC1 uses steel hubs with pins working through elastic NBR elements. These flexible elements transmit load while allowing a controlled amount of deformation. This gives the coupling its vibration-damping characteristics and allows it to compensate for limited axial, radial and angular shaft misalignment.
For the machine designer, this means the coupling can be considered where a degree of torsional flexibility is useful in the drive. It is a different selection requirement from an axis that needs the high torsional stiffness of a metal bellows or disc pack coupling. The right approach depends on how the complete system operates.
High torque in a compact package
The standard range extends from the RC1 500, with a rated torque of 500 Nm, to the RC1 15,000, rated at 15,000 Nm. Overall lengths range from 98 to 237 mm, with outside diameters from 131 to 318 mm.
Across the range, available bore diameters extend from 25 to 135 mm, depending on size. Maximum speeds also vary by size, from 9,000 r/min for the smallest coupling to 3,600 r/min for the largest. Higher speeds can be discussed with R+W on request.
These values give an initial indication of the range, but the final selection needs to consider torque, operating speed, shaft dimensions and duty together. A coupling should be selected around the actual application rather than a single headline figure.
Practical assembly and service access
The RC1 uses an axial plug-in arrangement to simplify assembly. Removable pins also make it important to consider access around the coupling when laying out the drive: the datasheet specifies a minimum pin-removal clearance equal to the pin length.
R+W describes the design as maintenance free, with a long service life. As with any drive component using elastic elements, this should be considered alongside the operating environment, appropriate inspection and the manufacturer's installation guidance.
The standard elastic elements are NBR with a hardness of 80 Shore A. Customer-specific modifications and special materials are available on request, allowing application requirements to be discussed at the selection stage.
Where could the RC1 be used?
Potential applications include motor-to-pump connections, fans, conveyors, mixers and other industrial machinery where torque transmission and vibration damping are important. These are starting points for an application discussion; suitability depends on the load cycle, alignment, environment and installation.
At Tandler Precision, we take a consultative approach to coupling selection. If you are specifying a new drive or reviewing an existing installation, send us the motor power, speed, shaft sizes and operating duty. We can help assess whether the RC1 is the right solution for your application.
Discuss your application: sales@tandler.co.uk | 01604 588056