Advantages And Disadvantages Of Universal Joint Couplings

Main advantages

1. Strong angle compensation capability
   Universal joint couplings (especially cross axis couplings) can adapt to larger axis deflection angles, far superior to rigid or elastic couplings, and are suitable for scenarios such as construction machinery and ships that require dynamic angle adjustment.

2. High transmission torque
   Made of high-strength alloy steel material, it can withstand heavy load conditions and is suitable for high torque transmission requirements such as metallurgical equipment and mining machinery.

3. Compact structure
   Small in size and light in weight, especially the cage type universal joint takes up less space under the same rotation diameter, making it suitable for installation environments with limited space.

4. High transmission efficiency
   The efficiency of the cross axis type can reach over 90%, while the cage type has higher efficiency and lower power loss due to its constant velocity characteristics.

5. Adapt to complex working conditions
   High temperature resistance and impact resistance, suitable for harsh environments such as metallurgical rolling mills, reducing maintenance requirements.

Main drawbacks

1. Non constant speed transmission problem (cross shaft type)
   When the input shaft rotates at a constant speed, the output shaft speed of a single cross axis universal joint will fluctuate periodically, which can easily cause vibration and additional loads. It needs to be used in pairs and strictly installed (double universal joint structure) to eliminate this problem.

2. High maintenance requirements
   Bearings and cross shafts require regular lubrication and wear out quickly; Although the cage type has good sealing performance, the cost of repair is relatively high once it is damaged.

3. Noise and vibration
   Cross axis type may generate noise due to its non constant speed characteristics, especially during high-speed operation; Although the cage type improves this problem, it requires extremely high machining accuracy.

4. High speed performance is limited
   Compared to diaphragm couplings, universal joint couplings have greater difficulty in dynamic balancing in ultra high speed scenarios. Although ball cage couplings have been optimized through precision manufacturing, they are still limited by structural complexity.

5. Cost factors
   High performance ball cage universal joints are expensive due to their complex manufacturing process, while ordinary cross axis joints may increase total investment due to maintenance costs during long-term use.