🔩 Gear Coupling (Serrated)
📌 Definition
A gear coupling is a mechanical connection between two rotating shafts, usually the gearbox output shaft and the propeller/driveshaft, which transmits torque efficiently while accommodating slight misalignments.
A serrated gear coupling has a spline-like or toothed interface (serrations) on the mating faces, providing positive mechanical engagement that prevents slippage and ensures smooth torque transfer even under heavy load conditions.
⚙️ Key Features
Serrated / Splined Surface: Provides strong torque transfer and prevents rotation slip between the coupling and mating flange.
Bolt-on Design: Usually has multiple bolt holes to attach to gearbox output or driveshaft yoke.
Misalignment Tolerance: Accommodates small axial, angular, and parallel misalignments between shafts, which occur due to chassis flex or suspension movement.
High Durability: Made from heat-treated high-strength steel, able to handle heavy torque and shock loads common in trucks and buses.
Applications: Gearbox output, centre shaft coupling, or differential input in heavy vehicles.
🛠️ Function in Driveline
Torque Transmission: Transfers engine power from gearbox to propeller shaft reliably.
Absorbing Misalignment: Serrated design allows for small shaft offsets without causing vibration or damage.
Durability under Load: High-strength design resists wear from repeated torque cycles.
Driveline Example:
Engine → Clutch → Gearbox Output ↓ Gear Coupling (Serrated) ↓ Propeller Shaft → Differential → Axles
📊 Typical Specs (Heavy Vehicle Application)
| Feature | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Serrated Gear Coupling / Splined Coupling |
| Material | Heat-treated steel |
| Engagement | Serrated teeth / spline surface |
| Mounting | Flanged with multiple bolts |
| Function | Gearbox → Driveshaft torque transfer |
| Vehicles | TATA, AL, BharatBenz, Leyland, Eicher, etc. |
🔹 Advantages of Serrated Gear Couplings
High torque capacity in a compact design
Reduces backlash and vibration
Allows slight misalignment between shafts
Simple maintenance; easy bolt-on replacement
If you want, I can create a diagram showing a serrated gear coupling in a truck driveline, with spline surface, bolt pattern, and how it connects gearbox to propeller shaft, which makes it much easier to visualize.
Do you want me to make that diagram?
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