The Benefits of Using Stainless Steel Universal Joints

Friction bearing type pin-and-block universal joints from Ruland are designed for applications with moderate-to-high-torque requirements in a wide variety of industries. Also called cardan joints or pin-and-block universal joints, they are manufactured from alloy steel for high strength or stainless steel for better corrosion resistance. They are comprised of precision machined, selectively heat-treated and ground components (yokes, pins and blocks) to maximize performance and service life. Single plain bearing universal joints are best suited for space constrained applications and are capable of angular misalignment up to 45°, significantly more than commodity style single u-joints. Double u-joints are better suited for applications with a wide distance between shafts or requiring angular misalignment up to 90°.

For more information, please visit Huading.

Ruland friction universal joints are available in OD sizes ranging from 3/8' to 4' in bore sizes ranging from 3/16' to 2' or 5mm to 35mm. They can have finished bores with or without keyways or machinable bores allowing the user to make custom sizes or geometries. All bore configurations can include a set screw.

Needle-bearing universal joints from Ruland are designed for applications with increased speeds, low-to-moderate loads and requirements for extended service life in industries such as medical, packaging, and robotics. Also called cardan joints, they are comprised of high-quality needle-roller bearings, precision machined trunnions with hardened and ground journals and a choice of alloy or stainless-steel yokes for reduced friction and increased performance in applications requiring precision and an extended service life. The needle bearings are pre-lubricated and require no maintenance, reducing machine downtime and increasing service life. Most u-joints include dust seals for the bearings.

Needle-bearing universal joints are available with stainless steel yokes for better corrosion resistance. Boots are recommended for corrosive, washdown or sanitary applications as the trunnions and bearings are alloy steel. Bores can be customized for blind configuration, preventing shaft penetration into the center joint components and providing added protection against contamination.

Ruland needle-bearing universal joints are available in OD sizes ranging from 3/4' to 2' a plain bore or bore w/ keyway in sizes from 3/8' to 1' or 8mm to 25mm. All bore types are available with a single set screw.

Boot cover kits protect the universal joint from unwanted contaminants such as dust and can be packed with grease for lubrication retention. Boot kits come with a pair of zip ties that seat into grooves on each yoke of the universal joint to ensure a tight seal. Boots are made of Nitrile for durability and abrasion resistance, helping to protect the boot from being damaged and grease leaking out or contaminants entering the joint. Nitrile also has high resistance to petroleum-based oils and fuels, silicone greases, hydraulic fluids, water, and alcohol which are commonly present in operating environments where this universal joint is used.

Based on data, manufacturers contributed $2.71 trillion annually to the United States economy. Manufacturing dramatically impacts the economy, but companies cannot do what's necessary without the right equipment and parts.

Elements like universal joints are necessary to use and run industrial machinery and heavy equipment effectively. In addition, these can aid in the prevention of downtime and other problems within different industries.

Not sure what their applications are? Keep reading to learn more about the details.

Uses of Universal Joints

Universal joints are used in various machines that have long rotating shafts. Often you can find joints between the rear driveshafts and the transmission.

Some of the typical applications of universal joints include the following:

• Electronics
• Medical and optical devices
• Aircraft
• Control mechanisms
• Textile machinery
• Tool drives

Universal joints are not limited to the above applications. The universal joint material can impact the quality of use.

Universal Joint Materials

Universal joints are available in thermoplastic body members or steel. Those made of thermoplastic body members have significant advantages, such as:

• Lightweight
• Negligible backlash
• Corrosion-resistant
• High-speed operation

These are typically used in light industrial applications.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Stainless Steel Universal Joints.

Steel joints have a maximum load-carrying capacity for a given size.

Universal joints can be made from almost any material which helps in their application. Stainless steel and naval brass are common materials as well.

For particular construction usage, ball-jointed universals are also available. These are used in high-speed operation and for carrying large torques.

Types of Universal Joints

Plenty of universal joint options can help with different applications. However, in practice, some universal joints are better than others for specific projects.

For example, variable velocity joints are not feasible in automobiles because the drive shaft stays inclined. However, cross, spider, ring, ball, and trunnion types are all forms of variable velocity joints.

The other types of universal joints include:

• Single joint
• Double joint
• Constant velocity joints

Rzeppa, Bendix Weiss, and Tracta are all joints categorized under constant velocity joints.

The three parts of a universal joint are the spider, the driving yoke, and the driven yoke.

Should You Use Universal Joints?

There are many types of joints, but universal joints are unique. As a result, they have many advantages for users.

Some of the benefits of using universal joints are:

• Flexible universal coupling
• Facilitates toque transmission between shafts
• Cost-effective
• Simple to assemble and dismantle
• Permits angular displacements

To ensure toque transmission efficiency is high, it's important to lubricate the joint properly. In addition, proper maintenance is essential to avoid wear and tear of the joints.

The Bottom Line

Universal joints are couplings or joints that connect rigid rods whose axes are bent to each other. They are commonly used in shafts that complete rotary motion.

Various industries can use universal joints and reap their benefits. For your high-demand industrial applications that require a fix for drive shaft misalignment, choose Kor-Pak.

The company is the world’s best Differences between single, double and telescopic joints supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.