Falk couplings come in many different varieties, each suited to certain situations or applications. Over the years, as Falk has refined its coupling designs and innovated new solutions for connecting mechanical parts, some couplings have fallen out of common use or have been replaced with more modern versions. One example of this phenomenon is the now-obsolete line of Falk Steelflex F couplings.
Features of F Couplings
F couplings feature a high-strength steel grid that flexes to absorb impact energies and accommodate shaft misalignments. This flexibility allows the Falk coupling to reduce peak or shock loads by as much as 30 percent. Since they were originally designed, type F couplings have been used in most general industrial applications and have developed a reputation for providing a long service life and maximum protection for factory equipment.
How to Replace F Couplings
So if F couplings performed so well, why are they no longer manufactured? The simple answer is that this type of Falk coupling has been replaced with a newer version, known as the T coupling. T couplings, also produced under the Steelflex name, feature a similar flexible steel grid that allows the coupling to pivot, rock or float, according to the needs of the application. An added benefit of the newer T couplings is their “replace in place” design, which means the grid (which is the primary wearing part) can be replaced without repositioning hubs or realigning shafts. That equates to a faster, more cost-effective repair job.
For industrial equipment that still employs obsolete F couplings, there are a couple of replacement options available. First, a Falk surplus supplier may still have some of these coupling types in stock. Otherwise T couplings can take their place, as they offer the same benefits – and then some.
Posted under Products/Services on Wednesday, February 8th, 2012