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      Flexible shafting for power transmission is wound for maximum efficiency when rotating in only one direction — the direction which tends to tighten the outer layer of wires on the shaft. Direction of rotation is identified from the power source end of the shaft. Torque capacity in the opposite direction is approximately 60% of the “wind” direction. Therefore if the power drive shaft must be operated in both directions, the reduced torque capacity will require a larger shaft than would normally be selected for operation in the wind direction.
      Because flexible shafts were developed primarily as a means of transmitting power where Solid Shafts cannot be used, most applications involve curves.
      Each shaft has a recommended minimum operating radius which is determined by the shaft diameter and type. As the
radius of curvature Is decreased, the torque capacity also decreases and tends to shorten shaft life.
      Lastly, service conditions such as temperature present no special problems to flexible shafts when operating in the —65 to + 250F range. Plastic casing coverings are able to cover this temperature range and provide additional protection from physical abrasion as well as being oil and water tight.
      Sometimes it is desirable if not essential that a flexible shaft coupling be as short as possible and still retain most of the features previosly described. Figure 7 illustrates such a coupling, available in the Product Section of the catalog.

      The “flexible Shaft” center section consists of three separately would square wire springs. Individual spring layers are opposingly wound to provide maximum absorption of vibration, load shock and backlash. The hubs are brazed to the springs for maximum strength. Design data is available in Figure 8 as well as in the Uni-Flex catalog page in this catalog.

Figure 8  Uni-Flex Couplings Selection Data

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