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Cardan shafts: mounting and maintenance

Universal joints:
Universal joints are used for mechanical
power transmission at high speeds. The
speed limit is dependent on the working
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Movement progression
Single joints transfer uniform induced
movement irregularly because by one by 25%
revolution of the driving shaft, the driven shaft

irregularity percent

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20%
angle. The widest working angle is 45 is accelerated twice and retarded twice. The
for all joint types (double joint 90). Lower degree of irregularity depends on the working 15%
speeds should be used at angles over angle (see Figures 1 and 2).
20 (40 double joint). Standard universal 10%
joints can be used up to 2000 rpm and
joints with needle bearings up to 4000 5%

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rpm. Needle bearing mounted joints are
normally only used at speds over 1000 0 10 20 30 40
rpm. operating angle

Fig 1

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a

0
=3
b

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b
Fig 2
1200 a
1100
rpm

1000

07000
900

800
0 90 180 270 360

To achieve uniform movement 2 single or one double joint must be used. Where slight

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irregularities in rotation can be accepted or only small angles of diffraction are concerned, a
single joint may be used. Furthermore, for universal rotation transfer the diffraction angle at
both ends of the intermediate shaft must be the same (Figures 3 and 4).

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Fig. 3 and 4
Note:
It should be ensured that the bearing is

located as closely as possible to the joint.

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Maintenance
The joints should be lubricated at least once per day where they are in
uninterrupted use. In dirty conditions we recommend covering the joints with a
protective rubber sheath.
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Where mounting is questionable, please consult our technical sales staff.

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