Shaft Coupling

This report discusses attributes of different types of shaft couplings used to transfer power from the engine shaft to the hydraulic pump.

Jaw Coupling
Please note that once a coupling is selected, special attention must be paid to the shaft keys. They must fit tightly, as any slack will eventually destroy the coupling.


 * [[Image:CouplingDestroyedByKey.png]]

The jaw coupling is composed of three pieces:


 * Two coupling halves, to connect to each of the two halves, with three piece jaws to transfer power and a spider insert to make soft connection between the two jaw halves:


 * [[Image:JawCoupling.png]]

Note: Experience has shown that this type of coupling does not work well with the Power Cube, as the spider insert fails after 40 to 100 hours of operation.

Solid Coupling
The solid coupling consists of a solid steel piece that connects to each of the two shafts and has set screws to secure the coupling to both shafts.


 * [[Image:SolidCoupling.jpg]]

This is the currently preferred coupling and is used in new Power Cubes.

Double Roller Chain Coupling
The double roller chain coupling is composed of three pieces:


 * Two pieces connecting to each of the two shafts
 * A chain to transfer power between the two shaft couplings


 * [[Image:ChainCoupling.jpg]]

This coupling looks promising, but has yet to be tested with the Power Cube.