Drive System Products
RL Hudson’s drive system products allow one or more components in an assembly to cause (or limit) movement in one or more other components. They may also be used to induce flow in a fluid or re-direct an applied force. Whether your application calls for a custom-designed component or one made to your print, our material experts and design engineers understand what it takes to meet your most demanding drive system requirements.
BELTS mechanically link two or more rotating components. Belts are almost always made of rubber, often (but not always) with a fabric reinforcement. Depending upon the application, belts may be round, flat, single V, multiple-V, or single or double toothed. They typically run without lubrication, which can be a major advantage over chains. In addition, they run quietly. Toothed belts (also called timing belts) can maintain a precise relationship between the positions of two components. Unreinforced rubber belts are capable of transmitting power between two radically-misaligned shafts. While belts are capable of transmitting high horsepower, when width is a constraint, chains are often preferable.
DRIVE SYSTEM APPLICATIONS
Appliances
Washing Machines
Dishwashers
Pumps
Agricultural & Heavy Equipment
Accessory drives
Control systems
Cooling systems
Vehicles & Engines
Accessory drives
Control systems
Marine
Accessory drives
Control systems
Cooling systems
Outdoor Power Equipment
Power transmission
Control linkages
Recreational Vehicles
Accessory drives
IMPELLERS may be plastic, rubber, or metal, depending upon the application. An impeller is a powered rotor inside a tube or conduit, used to increase the pressure and/or flow of a fluid. The two main types are positive displacement (usually rubber, for flexibility) and centrifugal (usually plastic or metal for rigidity). Two common applications are pumps and blowers.
SHEAVES (also called PULLEYS) may be powered (keyed to a shaft) or unpowered (idlers). The rim is grooved to fit a belt or cable. Pulleys may have a flat or slightly curved (crowned) surface. Sheaves and pulleys may be metal or plastic, and may carry a rubber traction surface.
SPROCKETS used with toothed belts may also be metal or plastic, and are keyed to a shaft.
COUPLINGS RL Hudson specializes in shaft couplings with a central rubber component that absorbs shock and vibration, and flexes to accommodate intentional or unintentional shaft misalignment.
WHEELS & ROLLERS represent a very large group of related products that may be driven or undriven, and may be made of rubber, plastic, metal, or a combination of materials. A common design includes a rigid metal or plastic body with a rubber outer surface that provides traction, absorbs shock, and helps prevent marking or damage.
LINKAGES Mechanical linkages transmit force, alter motion, or apply mechanical advantage (leverage). Light-duty linkages are often made of a self-lubricating plastic, while metal (often with plastic or rubber pivot bushings) is used where higher loads will be encountered.
LET US HELP RL Hudson supplies bearing and anti-friction products to some of the largest and most demanding manufacturing companies in the world. If we can be of service to you, please let us know. You can reach us at 1-800-722-6766.
