(1) Clamp shell coupling
The coupling consists of two semi-circular cylindrical clamping shells, which are locked with a set of bolts and tightened. The shaft contacts the clamping shell and transmits torque through frictional force. For reliable connection, a flat key is often added. The suspension ring in the middle of the clamping shell consists of two single rings, which are used to fix the axial position of the shaft.
The advantages of this coupling are simple construction, easy disassembly and assembly, small radial size, and no need for axial movement of the shaft during installation. The disadvantage is that the alignment accuracy of the two axis lines is low, the structure and shape are relatively complex, the manufacturing and balancing aesthetics are low, and it is only suitable for situations with medium and low speeds and stable loads. The vertical clamp coupling does not have compensation performance for axial, radial, and angular solutions.
There is also a type of longitudinal clamping coupling, which belongs to the category of clamp shell couplings. It is suitable for the rigid connection between the output shaft of the reducer and the mixing energy, and is easy to assemble and disassemble.
(2) Flange coupling
The structure of a flange coupling consists of two disks with convex and concave features, which are called half couplings. One half coupling has a groove on its end face, while the other half coupling has a shoulder. The two are fitted into the center, and the two half couplings are connected together by bolts. The half coupling and the shaft are fixed in the circumferential direction by keys, and the axial fixation is achieved by tightening screws. There is also a method of axial fixation through shaft end pressure plates, which can withstand axial loads. This coaxial connector is used to connect the two ends of a strict coaxial line, allowing for rotation in any direction. It has a simple structure and is easy to manufacture, but it has no vibration damping properties and cannot eliminate the adverse consequences caused by the two shafts not being concentric. Generally used for shafts with low vibration or high stiffness.
Another type of coupling with a similar structure is the slot flange type coupling, as shown in Figure 8.1.13. This type of coupling is suitable for the interior of the reaction vessel. The coupling is a mortise and tenon flange type, and its flange plate is directly welded to the mixing shaft. The upper and lower sections of the mixing shaft rely on the fit of the mortise and tenon surface to ensure coaxiality.