Save your back and save your time!

Some things are getting smaller. Tablet and smartphone sizes continue to shrink with the release of each new model. In the case of smartphones, there has been a slight trend reversal, as functionality, the demand for mobile video, and the natural limits of the human eye, have somewhat restricted the shrinking of touch screens any further. However, the demand for increased capabilities has continued and this has resulted in design spaces becoming more cramped. A quick comparison of the engine compartments of a modern car versus one from the 60’s will paint an obvious picture. In heavy industry, the introduction of Tier IV emissions regulations for diesel engines has also resulted in a more cramped engine housing. To assist with Tier IV space conservation issues, KTR has offered its MMC combination cooler. The multi-media cooling capability of the MMC (simultaneous cooling oil, air, water, and even fuel, all in one design) has helped to free up space for additional engine components like exhaust treatment particle filters. Regarding fluid dynamics, increased pump and motor dimensions, combined with smaller facility sizes, often result in situations where assembly space for pump and motor is greatly restricted. Even if assembly space isn’t the biggest issue, large driven component and motor weights can also require significant effort to shift about and perform maintenance. Critically, both of the aforementioned situations involve expensive downtime. KTR have closely considered these issues when developing the new ROTEX® SH (split hub) flexible shaft coupling. The new design is ideal for cramped situations. The ROTEX® SPLIT has the advantage that its hubs can be installed radially without the need to move or disassemble system components – pump and motor stay put! The idea of an engine designer in the 1980s, the concept for achieving a split in a cast material was just as unusual then as it is obvious now. The hubs of the SH are machined with a pilot bore featuring two lengthways notches. Similar to the engine connecting rods, the hubs are “cracked” apart. This procedure results in two half-shells which fit exactly against each other. KTR marks each hub half with a corresponding matching number as each hub half fits exclusively with its original partner. Via two assembly screws, the hub halves are reassembled into a positive locking position. KTR’s ROTEX® AH features a similar split hub assembly, however, comparatively, the SH is a cast coupling rather than machined steel and therefore can be manufactured at lower cost. Without limiting performance, the new SH design allows all the benefits of a conventional ROTEX® and elastomer elements of 92, 95-98, and 64 Shore hardness are available, each featuring KTR’s new T-Pur® material which allows for a longer working life within a wider range of working temperatures. The design advantage of the SH has obvious benefits for systems with narrow assembly spaces where separation of pump and motor is restricted. However, even in situation where “room to manoeuvre” is abundant, the ROTEX SH can provide a major benefit where pump or motor weight is the prime factor. Save your back, save your time, and save your wallet!