Disc Membrane Couplings

Disc Membrane Coupling is a high-performance flexible coupling that occupies an important position in modern mechanical transmission systems due to its unique structural design and excellent performance. This type of coupling connects shafts through one or more specially designed metal diaphragms, which can transmit torque and compensate for various forms of misalignment.

Compared with traditional gear couplings or rubber elastic couplings, Disc Membrane Couplings have significant advantages such as no backlash, maintenance free, high rigidity, and long service life.

The Disc Membrane Coupling consists of the following key components:

Metal diaphragm assembly: A thin disk typically made of stainless steel (such as AISI 304, 316 or high-strength alloy steel), with a thickness generally between 0.2-1.5mm, depending on the magnitude of the transmitted torque. The membrane is designed with special curved openings or corrugated structures to provide necessary flexibility.
Wheel hub assembly: Two metal wheels connected to the drive shaft and the driven shaft respectively, usually made of high-quality carbon steel or alloy steel, with a hardened surface treatment.
Connecting bolts: High strength bolts firmly connect the diaphragm to the wheel hub, and the pre tightening force of the bolts is accurately calculated to ensure the reliability of the connection.
Intermediate section (optional): In some long-distance transmission applications, an intermediate coupling is added to increase compensation capability.

The Disc Membrane Coupling achieves its function through the elastic deformation of the metal diaphragm:

Torque transmission: The driving wheel hub transmits torque to the diaphragm through bolts, and the diaphragm then transmits torque to the driven wheel hub without relative sliding during the entire process, achieving precise transmission.
Deviation compensation: When there is radial, angular, or axial deviation between the two axes, the diaphragm undergoes elastic deformation to absorb these deviations. The special shape design of the membrane enables it to withstand large deformations while maintaining high fatigue life.
Vibration damping: Metal diaphragms have a certain filtering effect on high-frequency vibrations, and their rigidity can prevent the occurrence of low-frequency resonance.

Main technical features

High torque density: The ability to transmit torque per unit size is superior to most other types of couplings
Zero backlash transmission: ensuring the positioning accuracy of precision transmission systems
Wide temperature adaptability: stable performance within the range of -50 ° C to+300 ° C
Corrosion resistance: Stainless steel material can adapt to harsh environments
Lightweight design: small moment of inertia, especially suitable for high-speed applications

When choosing a Disc Membrane Coupling, the following key parameters should be considered:

Transmission torque (T): rated torque and peak torque
Speed range (n): maximum operating speed and critical speed
Shaft diameter size: drive shaft and driven shaft diameter
Deviation situation: expected radial, angular, and axial deviations
Environmental conditions: temperature, humidity, corrosiveness, etc
Installation space restrictions

The mainstream Disc Membrane Coupling series on the market:

Single membrane type: simple structure, small compensation ability
Double membrane type: enhances compensation capability, most widely used
Multi diaphragm type: used for high torque and high-precision applications
Equipped with a middle section: specifically designed for long-distance transmission

Examples of Industrial Applications

Turbomachinery: compressors, turbines, expanders, etc
Pump equipment: chemical pumps, boiler feed pumps, seawater desalination pumps
Generator set: connection between gas turbine and diesel generator set
Steel metallurgy: transmission systems for rolling mills and straightening machines
Shipbuilding industry: propulsion shaft system, auxiliary engine connection

With the development of industrial equipment towards high efficiency, precision, and intelligence, Disc Membrane Couplings will continue to play a key role, and their technical performance and application scope will continue to expand. The correct selection and use of Disc Membrane Couplings are of great significance for improving the reliability and efficiency of mechanical transmission systems.