A universal joint is more commonly known as a U-joint. Additionally, it may also be referred to as a universal coupling, universal joint, Hooke joint, etc. it is a mechanical connection between rotating shafts that are generally not parallel, but intersect. It can allow positive transmission of rotary power at a much greater angle than is permitted with a flexible coupling. And it can transmit torque and motion.
Universal joints can be widely used in all kinds of power transmission systems. They have a variety of applications. They can be used in food processing equipment, replacement of expensive gearboxes and transmissions, etc. In addition, they are also commonly applied in connecting PTO drive shafts on off-highway tractors operating trailed machinery such as rotary lawn mowers and food grinders.
As mentioned at the beginning of this article, a universal joint can also be called a universal joint or a Hooke joint. It is actually the oldest and most common type of U-joint. This gasket is quite popular in automotive applications. It can transmit relatively high torque with minimal radial loads. However, it also has some disadvantages. For example, by design, these U-joints have difficulty compensating for parallel displacement and axial misalignment. Also, due to its design, even a lubricated universal joint will require periodic maintenance and may leak lubricant.
Universal joints can be assigned to one of three categories: non-constant velocity U-joints, near-constant velocity U-joints, or constant velocity U-joints. As for the first, it offers the simplest and least complex units. Typical applications are joining the driveshaft and differential in cars and trucks. They are also widely used in mobile equipment, agricultural machinery, and industrial machinery.
As for the second category, the most common type of joint that produces nearly constant velocity consists of two consecutive gimbal joints, with the second joint compensating for speed variations of the first.
Now let’s look at the third: constant velocity U-joints. These types of joints are said to be able to run more smoothly and at higher speeds than the other two types due to their constant velocity characteristics. However, they also have many disadvantages. For example, they are more complex and expensive. Also, they do not carry as heavy loads as non-constant velocity types.
Based on the above, we can see that the universal joint is also a very important mechanical part. It plays a very important role in power transmission. Therefore, it is also quite necessary to learn something about it.