Introduction
Flexible drive-train is a type of transmission, which is driven by a flexible element, allowing transmission of rotational motion, such as rolling-element bearing, roller chains, and belts. Flexible drive-trains generally provide lower noise, better vibration damping, and improved efficiency than traditional rigid drive-trains. They can also be used to reduce the mechanical wear and tear, as they allow a greater degree of flexibility.
Types of Flexible Drive-Train
Flexible drive-trains can be divided into two main groups: rolling-element, and belt-driven. Both are used in industrial and automotive applications.
Rolling-element Drive-Trains
Rolling-element drive-trains consist of rolling-element bearings, roller chains, and/or timing belts. They allow for high-speed transmissions and deliver smooth power transfer, and are generally used for transmitting relatively small amounts of rotational power. They can be used in applications such as conveyor belts, escalators, and machine tool spindles.
Chain-drive, or roller chain, is one of the most commonly used flexible drive-train components. It consists of two or more rotational chain links that are connected by strong, flexible chain links. The flexibility of the chain links allows them to be power-transmitters, even under high loads. Chain-drive can be used to transfer rotational power from a motor to a driven device, and is commonly used in power transmission applications such as agricultural equipment and transmissions for printing presses.
Belt-Driven Drive-Trains
Belt-driven flexible drive-trains consist of flat belts and/or timing belts that are attached to the drive shafts. They are often used as an alternative to chain-drive due to their improved efficiency, noise reduction, and flexibility. Belt-driven drive-trains can be more costly than roller chain drive-trains, but they offer a smoother and more reliable operation under high torque and speed.
Belt-driven flexible drive-trains are often used in applications where extreme speed and torque are the main requirements. Common applications include conveyor belts, escalators, and machine tool spindles.
Advantages of Flexible Drive-Trains
Flexible drive-trains offer a number of advantages over traditional rigid drive-trains. The main advantages are noise reduction, improved efficiency, improved vibration damping, and reduced mechanical wear and tear.
Noise Reduction
Flexible drive-trains offer significant noise reduction, compared to traditional rigid drive-trains. This is because of their flexibility, which helps to absorb vibrations that would otherwise lead to noise.
Improved Efficiency
Flexible drive-trains are generally more efficient than rigid drive-trains. This is because of their improved power transmission, which results in reduced energy loss.
Improved Vibration Damping
Flexible drive-trains offer improved vibration damping due to their flexibility. This reduces the need to use vibration isolation systems, which can be expensive and labour intensive.
Reduced Mechanical Wear and Tear
Flexible drive-trains can help to reduce the mechanical wear and tear on components as they allow for greater flexibility in the power transmission. This reduces the need for frequent maintenance and repairs.
Conclusion
Flexible drive-trains are an efficient, cost-effective, and reliable option for power transmission applications. They offer advantages over traditional rigid drive-trains, such as noise reduction, improved efficiency, improved vibration damping, and reduced mechanical wear and tear. Flexible drive-trains can be used in a variety of applications such as conveyor belts, escalators, and machine tool spindles, and are often used as an alternative to chain-drive due to their increased efficiency, noise reduction, and flexibility.
