Universal Joint (Single) Performance at 45 degree working angle

[aerowave89]

Hi Guys,

Universal single joints are capable to operate at up to 45 degree working angle. I am currently ordering from a manufacturer and it is stated that the maximum operating Torque is 252 N.m (at 5 degree working angle). The material is Stainless Steel 316 (Marine Grade) with the following dimensions,

Internal diameter: 20mm
External diameter: 42mm
Total length : 82mm (at 0 degree, straight)
Shaft depth : 18mm

Will there be any performance issues when I use it at the maximum working angle (45 degree)? Or should I use Double Joints to accommodate a wider range of angle (up to 90 degree).

Regards,
Tom

 

[GregLocock]

It will rotate at 45 degrees. The velocity (and/or torque) variation will be high, and the needle bearings will wear more rapidly than usual. You'd be better off using two or more UJs,or a double cardan joint or some other constant velocity joint

Cheers

Greg Locock


New here? Try reading these, they might help FAQ731-376

http://eng-tips.com/market.cfm?

 

[JStephen]

With a single U-joint at an angle, if the input shaft is rotated at constant speed, the output shaft speeds up and slows down as it goes around, which may or may not cause problems. Two U-joints with the end shafts parallel avoid that problem.

 

[Tmoose]

What rpm are the shafts going to operate?

The non-constant velocity and torque of the output shaft will be pretty severe, and quite noticeable even in a manually driven slow speed control, like a steering wheel.

Also a secondary couple trying to tweak the input and output shafts laterally, which is a strong vibration inducer in jacked up trucks accelerating at low road speed