This page aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the flexible shaft couplings, boasting over 100 different types manufactured by Nabeya Bi-tech Kaisha in Japan. The range of couplings includes high-end type shaft couplings for ultra-precise positioning to low-cost types for simple power transmission. At the end of the page, we also show shaft couplings for use in cleanroom of ultra-high vacuum environments. If any questions arise, please contact us for more information.
Shaft couplings also called flexible couplings play a crucial role in the world of precision machinery, linear and rotary motion systems, and devices. They are used for the efficient transfer of power and torque between the drive shaft and the driven shaft enabling smooth, reliable, and precise operation. Shaft couplings connect two shafts (motor drive shaft) and ball- or lead screw (driven shaft) securely while accommodating misalignments, vibration, and other dynamic factors. The quality of the design, the machining tolerances, and materials ensure reliable operation and long service life.
As earlier mentioned, NBK offers in total of 130 different types of flexible shaft couplings. It is divided into 9 product groups. Below we listed the different product groups:
In the below sections, we explain in detail the differences between the types. Also, you can download our PDF which covers the coupling basics, click here.
We divided the group into two categories:
This type of coupling is known as high-gain rubber coupling. There are 11 different types to choose from. They are designed to transfer the high gain of a servo motor. Especially when high-speed response frequencies are needed without the negative effects of vibration. These couplings are used in for high-tech equipment in industries like semiconductors, packaging, and machine tools.
Click here for detailed product information on high-gain rubber couplings and 3D CAD drawings.
For local support and product inquiry click here.
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New is the XGHW-type shaft disk coupling which combines the high rigidity of a flexible coupling with vibration absorption of the high-gain couplings. Watch the introduction video of this new coupling. It will explain the characteristics and benefits of the new XGHW-type shaft coupling.
Click here to download the product brochure.
Click here for detailed product information on shaft disk couplings and 3D CAD drawings.
Key features of the slit type shaft coupling include its durable construction from high-quality materials, typically stainless steel or aluminum, ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion. Its innovative one-piece design allows for flexibility, accommodating high concentricity and angular, radial, and axial misalignments, which can occur in various industrial applications.
Used in all types of linear and rotary stages, ball screw drives, measuring devices, and medical applications.
Click here for detailed product information on slit-type flexible couplings and 3D CAD drawings.
For local support and product inquiry click here.
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The bellows type of flexible coupling is available in 6 different types. They offer zero-backlash and high torsional stiffness. The housing is available in aluminum and stainless steel. Thanks to its zero-backlash and excellent torsional stiffness they excel in applications requiring precise motion control, such as CNC machinery, robotics, and instrumentation.
Click here for detailed product information on bellow-type couplings and 3D CAD drawings.
For local support and product inquiry click here.
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Flexible disk couplings are popular in use in applications as actuators and linear motion stages. These couplings are based on a single-disc and double-disc design construction. This coupling features high torsional stiffness, high torsional stiffness, and zero backlash. NBK offers 13 different types of disk-type couplings which include standard and short types.
Single-disk spring couplings are not suitable for applications involving radial misalignments.
The imaged shaft coupling is the XH-type which is the flaghship of NBK Disk type.
Click here for detailed product information in disk-type couplings and 3D CAD drawings.
For local support and product inquiry click here.
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The cross-joint type flexible coupling features a unique slippage mechanism, which allows for the acceptance of eccentricity and angular misalignment, ensuring optimal functionality even in challenging conditions. The high-accuracy fitting of the pin and bush components ensures an extremely small backlash for a long period, providing unparalleled precision and stability. Additionally, the reduced load on the shaft resulting from misalignment minimizes the burden on the system, enhancing its durability and longevity.
Click here for detailed product information on cross-joint couplings and 3D CAD drawings.
For local support and product inquiry click here.
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The family of rigid shaft couplings (clamp or split) includes 11 different types. They are available in aluminum and stainless steel materials. They are low-weight and withstand ultra-small moments of inertia. They are often used to connect two shaft which are accurately aligned. For high-precision type XRP is available.
Click here for detailed product information on rigid shaft couplings and 3D CAD drawings.
For local support and product inquiry click here.
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The curved jaw shaft coupling type MJC is designed to withstand shock absorptions and it retains zero-backlash. Unlike the Oldham style coupling, in which the torsion spacer is in shear under torsional loads, the spacer of the jaw clutch operates in compression. There are various spacers for the jaw-coupling available with different hardness values.
The curved jaw couplings are an optimal and compact solution for applications with high revolutions per minute (RPM), where a zero-backlash and reduction in system torque ripple are necessary.
Click here for detailed product information on jaw couplings and 3D CAD drawings.
For local support and product inquiry click here.
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The Oldham style shaft coupling consists of a 3-piece construction. This coupling is used to compensate for higher allowable misalignment compared to the jaw-type coupling. It can handle small eccentric reaction forces and absorb vibrations. These Oldham-style couplings are available in standard and short types.
The coupling housing, also called the hub, is made from aluminum or steel, depending on the type. The Oldham series flexible couplings include 14 types. We offer also two types (MOHS-C and MOP-C) for use in cleanroom, vacuum, or high-temperature.
The imaged coupling is a type called MOC with a shaft clamping style. This Oldham-style coupling is the flagship of NBK. It offers higher torque ratings than other Oldham types.
Click here for detailed product information on Oldham-style couplings and 3D CAD drawings.
For local support and product inquiry click here.
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The serration-type shaft coupling is a low-cost coupling available in 4 sizes (16-32 mm OD). The sleeve is made from polyurethane. This type of coupling is used in low-end applications such as game devices and mixers.
Click here for detailed product information on serration-type couplings and 3D CAD drawings.
For local support and product inquiry click here.
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NBK offers various types of shaft couplings which are suitable for use under these conditions. Is your application:
Ultra-high vacuum
Cleanliness
High-temperature
Non-magnetic
In case one of the standard products does not fit, NBK has the competencies to offer customised shaft couplings tailored to your requirements.
Contact our sales department for more information on this subject.
Download this Couplings Basics brochure to learn about coupling fundamentals. Learn about types, characteristics, and how to select the coupling you need. This brochure includes everything you need to know about the basics of shaft couplings.
Click here to receive the free download.
By following this link you find a video about the cleaning and washing of shaft couplings and special screws done by NBK.