14 best rigid couplings

Rigid couplings are mechanical devices used in power transmission systems to connect two shafts together in a precise and fixed alignment. These couplings are designed to transmit torque and maintain a constant angular relationship between the shafts.Here's some information about rigid couplings and their related categories:

  1. Couplings, Collars, and Universal Joiners:

    • Couplings: Couplings are mechanical components used to connect two shafts and transmit power. Rigid couplings are a specific type of coupling designed for maintaining a fixed connection without flexibility.
    • Collars: Collars are often used in conjunction with couplings to secure the shaft ends in place.
    • Universal Joiners: Universal joint couplings, on the other hand, provide flexibility and can accommodate angular misalignment between shafts.
  2. Power Transmission Products:

    • Rigid couplings are part of the broader category of power transmission products, which includes various components and devices used to transfer mechanical energy from one point to another.
    • Other power transmission products may include gears, belts, chains, sprockets, and bearings, all of which play a role in transmitting power efficiently.
  3. Industrial and Scientific Applications:

    • Rigid couplings find extensive use in industrial applications where precision and reliability are essential, such as in machinery, manufacturing equipment, and conveyor systems.
    • Scientific instruments and research equipment also utilize rigid couplings to ensure accurate and stable power transmission.
  4. Types of Rigid Couplings:

    • Sleeve Couplings: These are simple, cylindrical couplings that slide over the shaft ends and are secured in place with screws or pins.
    • Flange Couplings: Flange couplings consist of two flanged ends that are bolted together, providing a secure connection.
    • Clamp Couplings: Clamp couplings use split hubs that can be tightened around the shaft ends with screws, providing a secure and easily adjustable connection.
    • Tapered Couplings: Tapered couplings have a conical shape that fits snugly over the shaft ends, providing a friction-fit connection.
  5. Advantages:

    • Rigid couplings are known for their ability to maintain shaft alignment, making them suitable for applications where precise positioning is critical.
    • They are typically robust and have a long service life, contributing to the reliability of machinery and equipment.
  6. Considerations:

    • When using rigid couplings, it's important to ensure that the shafts are properly aligned during installation to prevent undue stress and wear.
    • Lubrication may be required to reduce friction and wear at the coupling interface.

In summary, rigid couplings are essential components in power transmission systems, providing a fixed and precise connection between two shafts. They are commonly used in industrial and scientific applications where precision and reliability are paramount.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best rigid couplings on the market
  

Rigid couplings are mechanical devices used in power transmission systems to connect two shafts together, allowing them to rotate as a single unit without relative movement. These couplings are a critical component in various industrial applications and are related to couplings, collars, universal joiners, power transmission products, and industrial equipment. Here's what you need to know about rigid couplings:

  1. Purpose: Rigid couplings are designed to transmit torque and rotational motion from one shaft to another while maintaining precise alignment.They are used to connect shafts that must operate without any misalignment or angular displacement.

  2. Construction: Rigid couplings are typically made from durable materials such as steel or aluminum. They are solid and do not have any flexible or movable components, which distinguishes them from flexible couplings that can accommodate misalignment.

  3. Types: There are different types of rigid couplings, including:

    • Sleeve Couplings: Sleeve couplings are the simplest type of rigid coupling. They consist of a cylindrical sleeve with a split along its length. The two shafts are inserted into each end of the sleeve and secured in place with screws or fasteners.

    • Clamp-Type Couplings: Clamp-type couplings consist of two hubs that are tightened together around the shafts using screws or bolts. They provide a more secure connection and are often used in higher-torque applications.

    • Flanged Couplings: Flanged couplings have flanges on both ends that are bolted together to connect the shafts. They are commonly used in heavy-duty industrial equipment.

  4. Advantages:

    • Precise Torque Transmission: Rigid couplings ensure that torque is transmitted accurately from one shaft to another without any backlash or torsional flexibility.

    • High Torque Capacity: They are suitable for applications with high torque requirements.

    • Zero Backlash: Rigid couplings do not introduce any backlash or angular misalignment into the system.

  5. Limitations:

    • Lack of Misalignment Tolerance: Rigid couplings are not suitable for applications where shafts may experience misalignment or axial movement. Any misalignment can lead to excessive wear and vibration.

    • Potential for Stress Concentration: The rigid nature of these couplings means that they can transmit stress directly from one shaft to the other, which can lead to stress concentration and potential damage under heavy loads.

  6. Applications:

    • Rigid couplings are commonly used in precision machinery, CNC machines, robotics, and other applications where precise alignment and torque transmission are critical.

    • They are also employed in industrial equipment such as pumps, compressors, and conveyor systems.

In summary, rigid couplings are essential components in power transmission systems, ensuring precise alignment and torque transmission between two shafts. Their solid construction and zero backlash make them suitable for applications where accuracy and rigidity are paramount. However, they are not suitable for applications with misalignment or axial movement requirements.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best rigid couplings on the market
  

Climax Metals Part RC-050 Mild Steel, Black Oxide Plating Rigid Coupling, 1/2 inch bore, 1 inch OD, 1 1/2 inch Length, 1/4-20 x 1/4 Set Screw

Based on 77 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Listing is for - 1/2\" ID Set Screw Coupling, STL, BO- Part Number: RC-050

  • Provides torque transmision and alignment
  • Cost effective coupling design
  • Easily installed where major disassembly would otherwise be required
  • Tolerance: +.0005/+.0025
  • Black oxide provides some corrosion resistance

User questions & answers

Question: screw model? how long
Answer: If you have an Ace hardware handy, take it there and look at available allen set screws. Threads are usually standard.

Climax Part RC-075-4H @ 90 Mild Steel, Black Oxide Plating Rigid Coupling, 3/4 inch bore, 1 1/2 inch OD, 2 inch Length, 5/16-18 x 3/8 Set Screw

Climax Metals

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Listing is for - 3/4" ID, 2set/2screwsat90 Set Screw Coupling, STL, BO- Part Number: RC-075-4H@90

  • Provides torque transmision and alignment
  • Cost effective coupling design
  • Easily installed where major disassembly would otherwise be required
  • 4 set screws increase load capacity
  • Black oxide provides some corrosion resistance

Climax Part RC-062-KW Mild Steel, Black Oxide Plating Rigid Coupling, 5/8 inch bore, 1 1/4 inch OD, 2 inch Length, 5/16-18 x 5/16 Set Screw

Climax Metals

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

'Rigid Shaft Coupling, One Piece Clamp Type, With Keyway, Bore Dia. 5/8 In., Overall Length 1-1/4 In., Outside Dia. 1-1/4 In., Clearance Dia. (In.) 1-1/4, Screw Size (In.) 5/16-18 x 5/16, Keyway Width (In.) 3/16, Max. Torque (In.-Lbs.) 469, Max. RPM 1800, Steel Material'

  • Provides torque transmision and alignment
  • Cost effective coupling design
  • Easily installed where major disassembly would otherwise be required
  • Tolerance: +.0005/+.0030
  • Black oxide provides some corrosion resistance

User questions & answers

Question: what is the size of the key way
Answer: 3/16" key way all the way thru

Climax Part RC-050-4H @ 90 Mild Steel, Black Oxide Plating Rigid Coupling, 1/2 inch bore, 1 inch OD, 1 1/2 inch Length, 1/4-20 x 1/4 Set Screw

Climax Metals

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Listing is for - 1/2" ID, 2set/2screwsat90 Set Screw Coupling, STL, BO- Part Number: RC-050-4H@90

  • Provides torque transmision and alignment
  • Cost effective coupling design
  • Easily installed where major disassembly would otherwise be required
  • 4 set screws increase load capacity
  • Black oxide provides some corrosion resistance

Climax Part RC-100-KW4H @ 90 Mild Steel, Black Oxide Plating Rigid Coupling, 1 inch bore, 2 inch OD, 3 inch Length, 5/16-18 x 1/2 Set Screw

Climax Metal Products Company

Based on 35 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Listing is for - 1" ID, 2set/2screwsat90 KW Set Screw Coupling, STL, BO- Part Number: RC-100-KW4H@90

  • Provides torque transmision and alignment
  • Cost effective coupling design
  • Easily installed where major disassembly would otherwise be required
  • 4 set screws increase load capacity
  • Black oxide provides some corrosion resistance

User questions & answers

Question: Climax parts rc 100-kw4h@90 mild steel/ /what size keyway does this have
Answer: Think it's a 1/4 inch, but I didn't buy it for the keyway
Question: Can anyone confirm the keyway size
Answer: It is intended for a 1/4" key so it's actual keyway dimensions are 1/8"high x 1/4" wide. The 1" shaft you use should also have the same keyway dimensions.

2 Pack 8mm Flange Coupling Connector, Rigid Guide Steel Model Coupler Accessory, Shaft Axis Fittings for DIY RC Model Motors, High Hardness Coupling Connector-Silver. (2 pcs 8mm)

Based on 44 reviews Check latest price

Product description

2 Pack Flange Coupling Connector, Rigid Guide Steel Model Coupler Accessory, Shaft Axis Fittings for DIY RC Model Motors, High Hardness Coupling Connector-Silver. (2 pcs 8mm)

  • 【Durable Material】 Ancirs coupling connector is made of fine plating steel, heat and electroplated process make it sturdiness and insulation, striking shaft more stable and easy for installment and replacement.
  • 【Standard Specification】Inner Diameter: 8mm. Cylinder Outer Diameter: 10mm. Cylinder Height: 10mm. Base Diameter: 32mm. Base Height: 2mm.
  • 【Wide Range of Use】Ancirs flange coupler is produced based on International Flange Standard, widely used in model shaft connection, perfect accessories for RC Model motor.
  • 【Package Include】Ancirs flange coupler is packaged with 2 pack 8mm Flange Shaft Coupling + 2x M3 Mini Hex Wrench + 4 x M3 Fastening Screw.

User questions & answers

Question: For the 8mm flange, the image says 32mm dia but the description says 22mm dia. Which is correct
Answer: It's 32 mm

Magic&shell 2-Pack 8mm Flange Shaft Coupling High Hardness Metal Axis Bearing Fittings DIY Model Accessory Rigid Flange Guide Shaft Coupler Motor Connector

Magic&Shell

Based on 36 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Type: Flange Shaft Coupling

Metal: Fine plating metal, hardened by heat treatment, and then electroplated

Function: A special coupler, which can fix one shaft to a plane and install other parts on the shaft easily.

Use: Suitable for model shaft connection, perfect accessories for RC Model motor, etc.

Feature: Durable and insulation, make your shaft more stable, easy to install and replace.



Specification:

Inner Diameter: 8mm

Cylinder Outer Diameter: 16mm

Cylinder Height: 10mm

Base Diameter: 32mm

Base Height: 3mm

Fastening Screw Hole: M4

Base Fixing Screw Hole: M4



Package:

2 x 8mm Flange Shaft Coupling

1 x M4 Mini Hex Wrench

4 x M4 Fastening Screw

  • Type: Flange Shaft Coupling, suitable for model shaft connection, perfect accessories for RC Model motor, etc.
  • Inner Diameter: 8mm, Cylinder Outer Diameter: 16mm, Cylinder Height: 10mm, Base Diameter: 32mm, Base Height: 3mm, Fastening Screw Hole: M4, Base Fixing Screw Hole: M4
  • Metal: Fine plating metal, hardened by heat treatment, and then electroplated. Durable and insulation, make your shaft more stable, easy to install and replace.
  • Function: A special coupler, which can fix one shaft to a plane and install other parts on the shaft easily.
  • Package: 2 x 8mm Flange Shaft Coupling + 1 x M4 Mini Hex Wrench + 4 x M4 Fastening Screw

User questions & answers

Question: What are the hole spacings and size of the 4 smaller holes? Is there a drawing for the part
Answer: The holes are set 17mm or 11/16" apart, and the holes themselves are 3.5mm or a little larger than 1/8".

Climax Part RC-075-KW Mild Steel, Black Oxide Plating Rigid Coupling, 3/4 inch bore, 1 1/2 inch OD, 2 inch Length, 5/16-18 x 3/8 Set Screw

Climax Metals

Based on 22 reviews Check latest price

Product description

'Rigid Shaft Coupling, 1 Piece Clamp, Inch, Bore Dia. 3/4 In., Steel, Finish Black Oxide, Outside Dia. 1-1/2 In., Overall Length 1-1/2 In., With Keyway, Clearance Dia. 1.500 In., Screw Size 5/16 In.-18, Keyway Width 3/16 In., Max. Torque 563 in.-lb., Max. RPM 1800'

  • Provides torque transmision and alignment
  • Cost effective coupling design
  • Easily installed where major disassembly would otherwise be required
  • Tolerance: +.0005/+.0030
  • Black oxide provides some corrosion resistance

Climax Part RC-037 Mild Steel, Black Oxide Plating Rigid Coupling, 3/8 inch bore, 3/4 inch OD, 1 inch Length, 1/4-20 x 3/16 Set Screw

Based on 54 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Listing is for - 3/8" ID Set Screw Coupling, STL, BO- Part Number: RC-037

  • Provides torque transmision and alignment
  • Cost effective coupling design
  • Easily installed where major disassembly would otherwise be required
  • Tolerance: +.0005/+.0025
  • Black oxide provides some corrosion resistance

uxcell 6mm Inner Dia H15D15 Rigid Flange Coupling Motor Guide Shaft Coupler Motor Connector 2PCS for DIY Parts

Uxcell

Based on 24 reviews Check latest price
  • Inner Diameter: 6mm/0.24 inch, Total Height: 15mm/0.59 inch, Cylinder Outer Diameter: 15mm/0.59 inch, Cylinder Height: 12mm/0.47 inch, Base Diameter: 28mm/1.1 inch, Base Height: 3mm/0.12 inch, Mounting Hole Distance: 21mm/0.83 inch,2 x M4 Fastening Screws
  • Type: Flange Shaft Coupling, suitable for model shaft connection, perfect accessories for RC Model motor, etc.
  • Material: Aluminum Alloy, hardened by heat treatment, and then electroplated. Durable and insulation, make your shaft more stable, easy to install and replace.
  • Function: A special coupler, which can fix one shaft to a plane and install other parts on the shaft easily. Double connection points fasten the coupler tightly.
  • Package: 2 x 6mm Flange Shaft Coupling, 4 x Fastening Screw( M4 Hex Wrench Not Included Here )

Product features

UXCELL coupling series

Flange Shaft Coupling, suitable for model shaft connection, perfect accessories for RC Model motor, etc. A special coupler, which can fix one shaft to a plane and install other parts on the shaft easily. Double connection points fasten the coupler tightly.

Know the size you need

We provice various kinds of rigid flange coupling for choosing.Please check the correct size-d1,L and D before purchase.

DIY applications

Iron Plating, hardened by heat treatment, and then electroplated. Durable and insulation, make your shaft more stable, easy to install and replace.

CNC Machine

Flange Shaft Coupling, suitable for model shaft connection, perfect accessories for RC Model motor, etc.

Robot Replacement

A special coupler, which can fix one shaft to a plane and install other parts on the shaft easily. Double connection points fasten the coupler tightly.

uxcell 8mm Inner Dia H13D16 Rigid Flange Coupling Motor Guide Shaft Coupler Motor Connector 2PCS for DIY Parts

Uxcell

Based on 23 reviews Check latest price
  • Inner Diameter: 8mm/0.31 inch, Total Height: 13mm/0.51 inch, Cylinder Outer Diameter: 16mm/0.63 inch, Cylinder Height: 10mm/1.31 inch, Base Diameter: 32mm/1.26 inch, Base Height: 3mm/0.12 inch, Mounting Hole Distance: 24mm/0.94 inch,2 x M4 Fastening Screws
  • Type: Flange Shaft Coupling, suitable for model shaft connection, perfect accessories for RC Model motor, etc.
  • Material: Aluminum Alloy, hardened by heat treatment, and then electroplated. Durable and insulation, make your shaft more stable, easy to install and replace.
  • Function: A special coupler, which can fix one shaft to a plane and install other parts on the shaft easily. Double connection points fasten the coupler tightly.
  • Package: 2 x 8mm Flange Shaft Coupling, 4 x Fastening Screw( M4 Hex Wrench Not Included Here )

Product features

UXCELL coupling series

Flange Shaft Coupling, suitable for model shaft connection, perfect accessories for RC Model motor, etc. A special coupler, which can fix one shaft to a plane and install other parts on the shaft easily. Double connection points fasten the coupler tightly.

Know the size you need

We provice various kinds of rigid flange coupling for choosing.Please check the correct size-d1,L and D before purchase.

DIY applications

Iron Plating, hardened by heat treatment, and then electroplated. Durable and insulation, make your shaft more stable, easy to install and replace.

CNC Machine

Flange Shaft Coupling, suitable for model shaft connection, perfect accessories for RC Model motor, etc.

Robot Replacement

A special coupler, which can fix one shaft to a plane and install other parts on the shaft easily. Double connection points fasten the coupler tightly.

uxcell 10mm Inner Dia H13D16 Rigid Flange Coupling Motor Guide Shaft Coupler Motor Connector Silver Tone 2 PCS for DIY Parts

Uxcell

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price
  • Inner Diameter: 10mm/0.39 inch, Total Height: 13mm/0.51 inch, Cylinder Outer Diameter: 16mm/0.63 inch, Cylinder Height: 10mm/0.39 inch, Base Diameter: 32mm/1.26 inch, Base Height: 3mm/0.12 inch, Mounting Hole Distance: 24mm/0.94 inch,2 x M4 Fastening Screws
  • Type: Flange Shaft Coupling, suitable for model shaft connection, perfect accessories for RC Model motor, etc.
  • Material: Iron Plating, hardened by heat treatment, and then electroplated. Durable and insulation, make your shaft more stable, easy to install and replace.
  • Function: A special coupler, which can fix one shaft to a plane and install other parts on the shaft easily. Double connection points fasten the coupler tightly.
  • Package: 2 x 10mm Flange Shaft Coupling, 4 x Fastening Screw( M4 Hex Wrench Not Included Here )

Product features

UXCELL coupling series

Flange Shaft Coupling, suitable for model shaft connection, perfect accessories for RC Model motor, etc. A special coupler, which can fix one shaft to a plane and install other parts on the shaft easily. Double connection points fasten the coupler tightly.

Know the size you need

We provice various kinds of rigid flange coupling for choosing.Please check the correct size-d1,L and D before purchase.

DIY applications

Iron Plating, hardened by heat treatment, and then electroplated. Durable and insulation, make your shaft more stable, easy to install and replace.

CNC Machine

Flange Shaft Coupling, suitable for model shaft connection, perfect accessories for RC Model motor, etc.

Robot Replacement

A special coupler, which can fix one shaft to a plane and install other parts on the shaft easily. Double connection points fasten the coupler tightly.

2pcs 7 x 7mm Motor Shaft Rigid Brass Sleeve Coupling Connector + Tighten Screws

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price
  • The coupling is great for connect your motor of 8mm shaft to the wheel.
  • Widely used in hardware,molds, and the occasion of the mechanical transmission.
  • 2pcs 7 x 7mm Golden Brass Coupling Rigid Shaft Coupling Motor Accessories
  • 2pcs 7mm To 7mm Brass Shaft Coupling Rigid Coupling Coupler Motor Connector
  • Package Include: 2 x Motor Rigid Coupling 1 x Allen Wrench 8 x Screws

User questions & answers

Question: What’s the outer dimensions of this product
Answer: The outside diameter is 0.625" (15.875mm). The length is 0.865" (22mm).
Question: How long is the coupling
Answer: It is about 2 cm. I am quite happy with the product.
Question: Which country is it made
Answer: Assume China. Don’t have original package.

Climax Metal RC-037-S Coupling, Stainless Steel Grade 303, 3/8" Bore , 3/4" OD, With 1/4-20 x 3/16 Set Screw

Climax Metals

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Precision machined stainless steel set screw couplings give you quality torque transmission and alignment of shafting in a cost effective design. Made of Stainless Steel 303 for high strength and corrosion resistance. Provided with two set screws made of Stainless Steel 18-8. Bore Tolerance: +0.003/ -0.000 inches

  • Sustain Moderate Torque Loads
  • Stainless Steel 303
  • Precision Machined
  • Four Set Screw Locking
  • Marine and Food Applications

User questions & answers

Question: What is the length of the coupling
Answer: The specifications say 1' long, I don't have it here but I believe that is correct from what I remember.

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