Rigid Flange Coupling - Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages and Disadvantages of Rigid Flange Coupling?

What is a Rigid Flange Coupling?

Couplings are designed to transfer power in a single direction between two shafts. Rigid Flange Coupling is made of heavy-duty cast iron Rigid flange coupling, which makes it highly durable for bearing heavy loads under various conditions. 

Advantages of Rigid Flange Coupling 

1. Rigid flange coupling is a reliable and efficient way of connecting two shafts.
2. It is easy to install and does not require any special tools or skills.
3. The coupling can handle high speeds and heavy loads without breaking or wearing out.
4. It is relatively inexpensive.
5. The input and output rotations are equal.
6. It is strong, allowing for high torque transmission with high energy efficiency.
7. Heavy-duty cast iron construction results in a highly durable coupling.
8. Can be used in vertical applications, such as a vertical pump.

Disadvantages of Rigid Flange Coupling:

1. They are expensive and difficult to install.
2. Should only be used when the shafts are accessible from both sides.
3. Reduced flexibility because the flanges are rigidly connected to each other, which makes it difficult to absorb axial thrusts between two shafts if their misalignment is high.
4. It cannot handle high speeds, which means it cannot be used at certain revolutions per minute (rpm), depending on the type of coupling.
5. Precise alignment between shafts is required to ensure that the coupling works properly at all times and that there are no problems arising from misalignments, such as bending and breakage.
6. The shafts must be exactly parallel to each other otherwise, there is a risk that they may jam and prevent the coupling from working properly.
7. It is less suitable for high frequencies.