Knowledge

Universal joint (abbreviated as UJ) is a kind of mechanical transmission component, Vigor produce the die-forged high strength universal joints that widely used in automobiles, construction machinery and other equipment that need to transfer rotational motion and torque. Its function is to connect two shafts and allow them to maintain power transmission even when the angle changes.

A universal joint is usually composed of two cross-shaped parts. Each cross has two bearings on both sides. The connection mode between the cross and the two shafts forms a "cross" structure. It can transfer the rotational motion from the engine to other components of the vehicle, such as wheels and drive shafts, etc. Especially when the transmission angle changes, it can still maintain a stable rotational speed and torque transmission.

I. Definition of Universal Joint

A universal joint, also known as a universal coupling or universal coupling device, is a mechanical device that can transfer power between different axis lines. It enables the angle between the connected parts to change within a certain range, thereby achieving variable-angle power transmission.

II. Classification of Universal Joints

According to whether there is obvious elasticity in the torsional direction, universal joints can be classified into rigid universal joints and flexible universal joints. Rigid universal joints can be further divided into unequal-speed universal joints, quasi-equal-speed universal joints and equal-speed universal joints.

III. Structure of Universal Joints

The structure of universal joints varies according to their types. The common cross-axis type universal joint consists of two fork-shaped joints and a cross shaft; the ball cage type universal joint is composed of inner and outer planet gears and multiple steel balls.

IV. Working Principles of Universal Joints

Cross-axis universal joint: By the rotation of the cross-axis, the rotational motion of the input shaft is converted into the rotational motion of the output shaft, even if there is an angular offset between the two shafts.

Ball cage universal joint: Through the relative rolling of the inner and outer planet gears and the steel balls, the power transmission is achieved between the two shafts, even if there is a large angular change between the two shafts.

Equal-speed universal joint: Through special structural design, the rotational speed of the driven shaft is equal to that of the driving shaft, thus ensuring the smoothness of power transmission.

V. Application of Universal Joints

Universal joints play a significant role in numerous industries of the national economy, and are indispensable in the following fields:

Automobile industry: They are used to connect the drive shaft and the drive axle, ensuring the smooth operation of vehicles in various driving conditions.

Aerospace field: They are used to connect the engine and the propeller, guaranteeing the stable operation of aircraft in complex flight conditions.

Industrial production: They are used to connect various complex mechanical components, achieving efficient and accurate linkage.

VI. Advantages of Universal Joints

High transmission efficiency: The transmission efficiency of universal joints is very high, reaching 98% to 99.8%, especially suitable for high-power transmission scenarios.

Smooth operation: The operation process is very smooth with extremely low noise.

Strong load-bearing capacity: Compared with other types of joints of the same diameter, the diameter of universal shafts is larger, which enables them to have a wider range of applications in mechanical equipment with restricted shaft diameters.

Convenient maintenance: The disassembly and installation are simple, and the reasonable structure design greatly improves the reliability and maintenance convenience of the equipment.

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