Flywheel Pump Couplings

May 12, 2017

Jennifer Shuttleworth

To minimize harmful reaction forces while tolerating high temperatures, CENTA Corp. (Aurora, IL) has developed a new series of couplings to optimize diesel-driven construction machinery. CENTAFLEX-KF, with a torque range of up to 800 N·m (590 lb·ft), excels with high torsional stiffness, yet provides radial flexibility. The special elastomer material also is suitable for temperatures of 100°C (212°F) continuous, up to 120°C (248°F) maximum. The design principle: the coupling connects to the engine flywheel via a thin steel plate. A thin layer of vulcanized elastomer is situated between the flywheel plate and a high-quality, glass-filled plastic. The compound-injected central hub's plastic is known as CENTADUR. Characteristics include freedom from abrasive glass fibers, metal-like strength, lack of corrosion at the splined pump shaft and what the company claims are exceptional sliding qualities. The couplings are delivered as a single-piece unit, ready to be bolted to the flywheel. The splined pump shaft is simply plugged into the profile of the hub for blind mounting.