Efficient power transmission and driveline component durability are among powertrain designers' most important concerns. Increased durability and up-time are two characteristics demanded by purchasers of today's complex and expensive machinery. These demands can only be met with reliable, trouble-free, smooth-running powertrains free from damaging loads which compromise component life.

Powertrain component life is determined by the load spectrum each component will experience during the machine’s service life. Reciprocating engines, such as spark-ignited gasoline and compression-ignited diesels, produce alternating torque loads which, when superimposed on the steady driving torque, create alternating stresses in driveline system components which shorten component life and reliability. High transient start-up torques and misalignment caused by skewed rotational axes between driver and driven in electric motor, hydraulic and pneumatic drives also cause high imposed forces on driven components. These unwanted forces loosen bolted joints and cause spline fretting, clutch disk wear, bearing failure, gear tooth fatigue and shaft fatigue, among an array of other problems.

Elastomeric flexible couplings solve these problems. They prolong driveline component life because they reduce the magnitude of imposed loads, attenuate vibration in multiple planes, accommodate misalignments in multiple planes, and act as barriers impeding noise created by meshing gears, engaging clutches, etc.

Elastomeric flexible couplings are also maintenance free. They require no lubrication or other maintenance throughout their service life. Among the large variety of coupling types available, LORD Corporation's elastomeric couplings offer the most comprehensive package of benefits available to the powertrain designer. LORD Corporation's product lines include five different elastomeric coupling styles which cover a wide range of application requirements.

Application requirements suggest the coupling style needed to optimize powertrain performance and component longevity. Misalignment accommodation, torsional vibration isolation, transient shock dissipation and required service life are important parameters to consider when selecting a coupling to fill specific application requirements.

LORD engineers can assist you with selecting an appropriate coupling type and configuration. With extensive analytical capability and years of experience in designing products for powertrain vibration, shock and motion control, LORD engineers offer everything from simple application assistance to complex system analysis and specialized product design.

Torsional vibration, transient shock and misalignment load analyses require specialized computer programs and engineering experience. LORD engineers can analyze your system and recommend the right solution, whether it's a selection from the standard product line or a custom design.

LORD Corporation's standard product lines of elastomeric flexible powertrain couplings are presented in the following sections. Many variations of standard products are available, but not listed as 'standard.' Main drive, fan drive, PTO and accessory drive couplings are available in a host of custom designs and variations of standard products. LORD engineers are ready to help you meet your specific application requirements with custom designs where necessary.