The universal coupling makes use of the characteristics of its mechanism, so that the two shafts are not on the same axis, and can realize continuous rotation of the two connected shafts when there is an angle between the axes, and reliably transmit torque and motion. The biggest characteristics of universal coupling are: its structure has greater angular compensation capacity, compact structure and high transmission efficiency. The included angle of two axes of universal couplings of different structural types is different, generally between 5 ° and 45 °
Universal couplings have a variety of structural types, such as: cross shaft type, ball cage type, ball fork type, bump type, ball pin type, ball hinge type, ball hinge plunger type, three pin type, three fork rod type, three ball pin type, hinge rod type, etc; The most commonly used is the cross shaft type, followed by the cage type. In practical application, it can be divided into heavy duty, medium duty, light duty and small duty according to the torque transmitted.
Its purpose is to connect two shafts (driving shaft and driven shaft) in different mechanisms, so that they can rotate together to transmit torque. In the high speed and heavy load power transmission, some couplings also have the functions of buffering, damping and improving the dynamic performance of the shafting. The coupling is composed of two halves, which are connected with the driving shaft and driven shaft respectively. Generally, power machines are connected with the working machine by means of couplings.