FAQs of Coupling

1. What is the primary function of coupling in the valve system?

Coupling is a mechanical component connecting two shafts. Its core function is to transmit torque, compensate for shaft installation deviation, buffer vibration, protect the valve and driving equipment, and ensure stable and reliable valve opening and closing action.

2. What is the difference between “rigid” and “flexible” coupling?

Rigid coupling features a simple structure, ample transmission torque, and is suitable for high-precision valve shaft alignment. Flexible coupling, with elastic elements, can compensate for installation deviations, buffer vibrations, and is ideal for motor drives. In cases where pipeline vibration is noticeable, the valve is the mainstream choice for valve systems.

3. What parameters do I need to provide when customizing the coupling?

Four types of core parameters shall be provided: ① type, shaft diameter and keyway size of connecting shaft;② valve working torque, valve model, or driving power can be recommended to customers;③ working environment, such as temperature, medium, vibration/corrosion, etc.;④ installation space limitation, whether there are requirements for axial length and radial diameter. We will arrange for engineers to select and calculate according to the parameters to ensure accurate adaptation.

4. What is the significance of the “compensation amount” parameter of the coupling?

Compensation refers to the maximum allowable deviation of the shaft system of the coupling. Suppose pipeline settlement or bracket deviation may cause shaft system deviation during valve installation. In that case, it is recommended to select a flexible coupling with a compensation amount ≥0.3mm to avoid clamping or damage caused by a rigid connection.

5. What materials are mainly used for plumberstar couplings?

Primarily composed of brass, carbon steel, and stainless steel materials. Brass has medium corrosion resistance and good conductivity, making it suitable for HVAC and low-pressure gas valves. Carbon steel is low-cost, high-strength, suitable for ordinary water, air, and other non-corrosive conditions. Stainless steel acid and alkali resistance, seawater corrosion resistance, suitable for chemical engineering, marine engineering, and food-grade valves.

6. What is the degree of protection of the coupling?

The standard product protection level is IP54, dustproof, splash-proof, outdoor or humid environment, such as rain, spray area can choose IP65 protection level products, through the addition of sealing end cap in the connection position, the use of waterproof sealing ring to achieve; if the environment has dust or oil, additional customized protective cover, further extend the service life.

7. Is it challenging to install the coupling?

Low installation difficulty; conventional models do not require special tools, and ordinary technicians can operate them. Installation steps are simple: ① Clean the end faces of the two shafts to ensure no oil stains and impurities;② Insert the coupling into the two shafts respectively, align the keyway, and fix the set screws;③ Check the concentricity;④ Lock the connecting bolts. Installation instructions with schematics are provided, and video instructions are available for complex models.

8. When installing, the coaxial deviation of the two shafts is too large. What problems will the coupling cause?

Excessive deviation will lead to increased vibration and noise of the coupling. Long-term use will wear down the bearing, shorten its lifespan, and may cause shaft fracture in severe cases. The radial height can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the valve support spacer or by moving the actuator position to change the axial alignment. If the deviation is large, a flexible coupling with a larger compensation amount can be selected.

9. Does Plumberstar support OEM/ODM cooperation for the coupling?

Support OEM/ODM cooperation. OEM cooperation on couplings can include printing product logos and custom packaging according to customer requirements. ODM cooperation can be based on customer requirements and design concepts, with our team of engineers completing the coupling development, design, proofing, and production, providing a one-stop service from scheme design to batch delivery. A confidentiality agreement will be signed before cooperation to protect the client’s intellectual property rights.

10. What standards are used for coupling packaging?

Plumberstar is packaged individually in PE bags with foam cushioning. Multiple products are packed into corrugated boxes filled with bubble wrap. The entire structure is reinforced with plywood pallets and wrapped with stretch film to prevent moisture loss and enhance resistance. Conform to sea and air packaging standards. Each shipment passed the drop test.