Universal joints need no tools for maintenance

Abssac continues to expand its rotary product portfolio by teaming up with Curtis Universal of the USA and its unique range of Curtis TakeApart universal joints. Universal joint applications by design normally require two shafts not in line with each other limited freedom of movement in any direction while transmitting rotary motion. Where Curtis excels is in the design and assistance developing a universal joint application to achieve a cost effective transmission solution, applying more than 75 years of universal joint experience.

The company can incorporate different types of end attachment as well as allowing telescopic action during rotation into the design.

The universal joints are machined, not cast, which enables high tensile strength and outstanding reliability but also lends itself perfectly for unique transmission designs.

As standard all universal joints are available in alloy steel, stainless steel, however many applications have been developed using nonstandard materials such as titanium and Monel alloys.

We are also familiar with dealing with different heat and surface treatments to achieve a desired hardness or corrosion resistance.

The basic universal joint uses a single joint configuration which can accept up to 35 degrees of angular misalignment.

Where more angular flexibility is required, the double joint design can accept up to 70 degrees of shaft misalignment.

For applications such as marine, which require unusually high noncorrosion standards, Curtis can supply universal joints in stainless steel, bronze, naval brass, aluminium-bronze, nickel-aluminium-bronze and Monel alloy.

Uniquely, the standard ranges can incorporate the Curtis TakeApart design, which allows the disassembly and reassembly of the universal joint without the use of special tools and replacement of component parts.

This feature enables the end user to machine the hubs to fit the mating shaft if a standard bore does not.

In addition to this, easier access to other components in a drive line can be achieved by being able to quickly and easily disassemble the joint after it has been installed in the application.