Cardan joint in drive systems

In order for devices and vehicles powered by mechanical energy to operate fully efficiently, it must move under the housing without too much vibration or pulsation. For this reason, passenger cars and trucks have various types of shafts, connected by clutches, which transmit the torque generated in the engine straight to the wheel axles. There are many types of them under the hood, but one of the most characteristic connecting elements in drive systems is modern cardan shaft. Its unusual structure has been known to engineers for hundreds of years. It allows you to connect elements positioned radially or at an angle to each other. In the automotive industry, this works perfectly when transferring power from the engine, which is usually located at the front of the car, to the rear axle or all wheels. There is a universal joint in the cardan shaft, also called a clutch. It can be used to connect other elements that are deviated from each other without losing their usefulness. This is an essential element of rear-wheel drive vehicles, which, thanks to the use of this type of shaft, can use the full power generated by the engine.

Construction of precision joints

Not only in the automotive industry, but also in other activities that produce powered devices, parts are used to connect the shafts through which the drive passes. Thanks to them, machines can be assembled from smaller components, coupled using various types of connectors. The entire structure of the cardan shaft consists of several smaller parts. The active and passive members constitute a path for the torque, which on the one hand comes from the driving shaft, from where it is redirected to the driven one. They end with forks that connect to form an inseparable, self-adjusting and angular clutch, also called a swinging clutch. Cardan joints is distinguished by a cross connection of shafts with fork ends, which are mounted on bearings, additionally reinforced with a ring. The fact that it is not a ball joint affects the uniqueness and, at the same time, effectiveness of this element of the drive system. The shaft setting should be coaxial, and each of its parts must be fully functional so that no harmful vibrations are generated for the vehicle or device. The joint can be made of ordinary or stainless steel, thanks to which it is characterized by a high level of durability. Possible cardan shaft failures are easy to detect and repair, so it can be used in one device for a long time. The availability of series of types divided by rotational speed allows you to choose a clutch perfectly matched to the power generated by the engine.

Advantages of using a cardan shaft

In the automotive industry, rear-wheel drive cars are no longer as popular as they used to be. However, this does not reduce the interest in drive shafts with cardan clutches. They are also used in industry, where they support power transmission in various types of machines. They also have their loyal fans in motorcycle modifications. Although the commonly used chain is lighter and cheaper, the shaft has a much higher level of strength. For this reason, even if the motorcycle has lower performance, its drive system will be protected against a serious and costly failure for longer. Precision joints work perfectly wherever a stable connection between shafts is needed. Their main advantages are their workmanship with attention to the smallest details and the possibility of purchasing a version with a needle or plain bearing, depending on the type of application. They are perfect for the production of construction or agricultural equipment, two- and four-wheeled vehicles, as well as equipment in industrial plants. The operation of engine-powered machines must be as efficient as possible while achieving full power, which is why it is important to use high-quality clutches.