{"id":11156,"date":"2026-06-23T17:14:11","date_gmt":"2026-06-23T08:14:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/?p=11156"},"modified":"2026-06-29T12:02:39","modified_gmt":"2026-06-29T03:02:39","slug":"coupling","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/","title":{"rendered":"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>In manufacturing equipment and industrial equipment, couplings (shaft couplings) are used to accurately transmit power from a motor to a driven shaft. A coupling is a mechanical component that connects the drive shaft and the driven shaft, serving functions such as absorbing mounting misalignment and dampening vibrations.<\/p>\n<p>However, there are several types of couplings\u2014including jaw-type, disc-type, and bellows-type\u2014and selection must be based on the specific application and required characteristics.<\/p>\n<p>This article provides a systematic explanation ranging from the basic functions of couplings to their main types and characteristics, as well as key points for selection. It also summarizes how to pair couplings with motors\u2014essential knowledge for maximizing coupling performance during motor selection.<\/p>\n<table style=\"height: 48px; border-color: #2470c7; background-color: #f0fdff;\" border=\"6\" width=\"551\">\n<caption>\u00a0<\/caption>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 38.4141px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 541.504px; height: 38.4141px;\"><strong><u>Supervised by: C.I. TAKIRON Corporation Electronic Devices Sales Group<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>This article has been supervised based on the advanced technical expertise and insights we have cultivated since our founding in 1919 as a leading company in plastic processing. Our department continuously analyzes market trends and the latest technologies in ultra-compact, high-precision micro motors, focusing on providing high-value-added information to designers and developers. As a team of experts with in-depth knowledge of product characteristics, we support our customers\u2019 problem-solving and technological innovation by delivering accurate and practical content.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #fff; background: #437ae8; line-height: 70px; font-size: 30px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><strong>Coupling Basics and Their Four Roles<\/strong><\/h2>\n<h3><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-11159\" src=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/f379e8f9d6ad11f81ffdbf4603511e57-540x304.jpg\" alt=\"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS\" width=\"540\" height=\"304\" \/><\/h3>\n<p>A coupling is a mechanical component that connects the drive shaft (the rotating side), such as a motor, to the driven shaft (the side being rotated), such as a pump or ball screw, to transmit power. Also known as a \u201cshaft coupler\u201d or \u201cjoint,\u201d it is a component specifically designed for connecting machine shafts.<\/p>\n<p>In addition to power transmission, couplings serve functions such as absorbing mounting misalignment, damping vibrations, and insulating against heat. Understanding each of these roles clarifies the selection criteria for equipment design.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Topics Covered in This Section<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Connecting the drive shaft and driven shaft to transmit power<\/li>\n<li>Absorbs three types of misalignment<\/li>\n<li>Dampening vibration and insulating against heat<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A proper understanding of the roles of power transmission, misalignment compensation, vibration damping, and heat insulation clarifies the criteria for selecting couplings in equipment design.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #fff; background: #c3effa; line-height: 20px; font-size: 23px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><span style=\"color: #000000; font-size: 18pt;\"><strong>Connecting the driving shaft and driven shaft to transmit power<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Connecting the drive shaft and driven shaft to transmit power is the most fundamental role of a coupling. It connects the motor\u2019s output shaft to the driven shaft\u2014such as a ball screw or pump\u2014and accurately transmits rotational power.<\/p>\n<p>If a machine were manufactured with a structure in which the shafts are integrated, it would not only pose challenges in terms of machining precision and cost, but would also require additional labor for transportation and assembly. Furthermore, if either the drive side or the driven side were to fail, the entire unit would have to be replaced, increasing the maintenance burden.<\/p>\n<p>By connecting the shafts via a coupling, power can be transmitted even between shafts of different diameters. In the event of damage, only the affected part needs to be replaced, allowing for a design that takes shaft connection and maintenance into account.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #fff; background: #c3effa; line-height: 20px; font-size: 23px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><span style=\"color: #000000; font-size: 18pt;\"><strong>Compensating for Three Types of Misalignment<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Another key role of a coupling is its ability to accommodate three types of misalignment. Misalignment refers to the deviation between the centerlines of the drive shaft and the driven shaft. The main types are as follows:<\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 100%; max-width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 23px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 20%; background-color: #f0fff8; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">Type<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 38.2601%; background-color: #f0fff8; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">Description<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 28px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 20%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 28px;\">Eccentricity (Parallel Misalignment)<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 38.2601%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 28px;\">\u00a0A state in which the axes of the two shafts are offset in parallel<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 29.3408px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 20%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 29.3408px;\">Angular Misalignment (Angular Shift)<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 38.2601%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 29.3408px;\">A condition in which the axes of two shafts are tilted at an angle to each other<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 23px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 20%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">\u00a0End Play (Axial Misalignment)<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 38.2601%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">A condition in which two shafts move apart or come closer together in the axial direction<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<div>\n<p>\u00a0If misalignment is left unaddressed, it can lead to equipment problems such as vibration, noise, and uneven bearing wear.<\/p>\n<p>Since there are individual variations in machining accuracy among parts, it is practically difficult to assemble all shafts so that they are perfectly aligned. Couplings utilize the deformation of elastic materials or metal springs to absorb these three types of misalignment within acceptable limits, thereby reducing the load on surrounding components<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<h3 style=\"color: #fff; background: #c3effa; line-height: 20px; font-size: 23px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><span style=\"color: #000000; font-size: 18pt;\"><strong>Vibration Damping and Heat Isolation<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Vibration damping and thermal isolation are also important functions of couplings. If vibrations generated during motor rotation are transmitted to driven-side equipment, such as ball screws, this can lead to a decrease in positioning accuracy and a deterioration in mechanical performance. Couplings function as shock absorbers that absorb vibrations from the drive side and maintain the accuracy of the driven side.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, attention must be paid to the heat generated during motor operation. If heat is transmitted directly to the driven side, components such as ball screws may undergo thermal expansion, which could affect dimensional accuracy. The coupling suppresses heat transfer between the drive side and the driven side, preventing component deformation and misalignment.<\/p>\n<p>Both vibration damping and thermal isolation are critical to maintaining the overall precision of the equipment and managing the load on surrounding components, thereby contributing to an extended lifespan.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #fff; background: #437ae8; line-height: 70px; font-size: 30px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><strong>Main Types and Characteristics of Couplings<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-11165\" src=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/6a05ecebbb28c3677382148f945378c5-540x304.jpg\" alt=\"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS\" width=\"540\" height=\"304\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Couplings are classified into several types based on their structural differences. Since torsional rigidity, vibration absorption, and the amount of misalignment they can accommodate vary by type, it is necessary to understand the characteristics of each type before making a selection.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Topics Covered in This Section<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Differences Between Rigid and Flexible Couplings<\/li>\n<li>Characteristics of Disc, Slit, and Bellows Types<\/li>\n<li>Characteristics of Jaw-Type and Rubber-Type Couplings<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>By understanding the structure and optimal applications of each type, you can efficiently narrow down your selection to find a coupling that meets your equipment\u2019s requirements.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #fff; background: #c3effa; line-height: 20px; font-size: 23px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><span style=\"color: #000000; font-size: 18pt;\"><strong>Differences Between Rigid and Flexible Couplings<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Understanding the difference between rigid and flexible couplings is the starting point for coupling selection. The table below compares the main characteristics of the two types.<\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 100%; max-width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 23.9844px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #f0fff8; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23.9844px;\">\u00a0Item<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #f0fff8; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23.9844px;\">\u00a0Rigid Couplings<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #f0fff8; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23.9844px;\">Flexible Coupling<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 28px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 28px;\">\u00a0Structure<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 28px;\">Two shafts are firmly integrated<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 28px;\">Connected via an elastic element or metal spring<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 29px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 29px;\">Misalignment Compensation<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 29px;\">Not supported<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 29px;\">Compatible with eccentricity, angular misalignment, and end play<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 23px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">Torsional rigidity<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">Torsional rigidity<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">Varies by typ<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 23px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">Cost<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">\u00a0Relatively inexpensive<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">Varies depending on the structure<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 23px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">Suitable Environment<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">\u00a0Conditions where there is virtually no axial misalignment<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">Conditions where installation errors or thermal expansion are present<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p>Since rigid couplings lack flexibility, they cannot accommodate installation errors and are used under conditions where shaft misalignment is minimal. Rigid couplings are the choice when a simple structure and high torsional rigidity are prioritized.<\/p>\n<p>Flexible couplings transmit power while absorbing misalignment by utilizing the deflection of elastic elements or metal springs. Selecting the appropriate type based on design conditions is critical to equipment performance.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #fff; background: #c3effa; line-height: 20px; font-size: 23px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><span style=\"color: #000000; font-size: 18pt;\"><strong>Features of Disc, Slit, and Bellows Types<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Disc, slit, and bellows-type couplings are metal spring-based couplings that utilize the elastic deformation of metal to absorb misalignment. The structure and characteristics of each type are as follows.<\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 100%; max-width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 23.8594px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #f0fff8; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23.8594px;\">\u00a0Type<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #f0fff8; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23.8594px;\">Structural Features<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #f0fff8; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23.8594px;\">Structural Features<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 28px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 28px;\">Disc<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 28px;\">\u00a0Absorbs axial misalignment through the deflection of thin metal sheets<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 28px;\">High torsional rigidity and low rotational transmission error<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 29px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 29px;\">\u00a0Slit<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 29px;\">\u00a0Integral structure formed by machining spiral slits into a cylindrical material<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 29px;\">Compact, low-inertia, and simple design<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 23px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">Bellows<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">\u00a0Compensates for displacement in three directions through the expansion and contraction of a metal bellows<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23px;\">Excellent rotational uniformity, ideal for connection with <a href=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/encoder\/\">encoders<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>Disc-type, metal-slit-type, and bellows-type models are available in backlash-free versions and are selected for applications such as servo motors, stepper motors, and encoder connections depending on the specific use. Some disc-type and metal-slit-type models are certified as oil-resistant.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #fff; background: #c3effa; line-height: 20px; font-size: 23px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><span style=\"color: #000000; font-size: 18pt;\"><strong>Features of Jaw-Type and Rubber-Type Couplings<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Jaw-type and rubber-type couplings are elastic couplings that incorporate elastic materials such as rubber or urethane as intermediate components. The jaw-type features a structure in which an elastomer is sandwiched between two metal hubs, providing excellent shock and vibration absorption. Easy installation is one of the key features of the jaw-type.<\/p>\n<p><strong>[Main Applications of Flexible Couplings]<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Power transmission for pumps, conveyors, and other equipment<\/li>\n<li>Vibration reduction in equipment subject to impact loads<\/li>\n<li>Suppression of hunting in servo motors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Some couplings that use high-damping rubber suppress hunting in servo motors, enabling higher gain settings. While couplings using high-damping rubber offer excellent vibration absorption characteristics, their torsional stiffness and allowable misalignment vary by product.<\/p>\n<p>For equipment subject to vibration and shock, elastic couplings are a strong choice.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #fff; background: #437ae8; line-height: 70px; font-size: 30px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><strong>Basic Coupling Selection Procedure and Relationship to the Motor<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-11171\" src=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/0503466a55a8a636884f79892a4fc4c9-2-540x304.jpg\" alt=\"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS\" width=\"540\" height=\"304\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>The coupling selection process begins with selecting the appropriate type based on the motor and application, then proceeds step-by-step to size selection, confirmation of specifications such as allowable torque and allowable misalignment, and confirmation of the shaft connection method. Additionally, the type and characteristics of the motor to be paired with the coupling are factors that influence the selection results.<\/p>\n<p>Here, we explain the practical motor selection procedure and its relationship to the motor.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Contents Covered in This Section<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How to Narrow Down the Type Based on the Application<\/li>\n<li>How to Verify Allowable Torque and Misalignment Tolerances<\/li>\n<li>How Motor Characteristics Affect Coupling Selection<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>By keeping in mind the key points to check at each stage of the selection process, you can more easily select a coupling that suits your application and operating conditions.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #fff; background: #c3effa; line-height: 20px; font-size: 23px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><span style=\"color: #000000; font-size: 18pt;\"><strong>How to Narrow Down Options Based on Application<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Narrowing down the options based on the application is the first step in selecting a coupling. The type of coupling is selected according to the type of motor and the intended application.<\/p>\n<div>\n<table style=\"width: 100%; max-width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 23.9844px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #f0fff8; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23.9844px;\">Application Categories<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #f0fff8; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23.9844px;\">Application Categories<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #f0fff8; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 23.9844px;\">Examples of Suitable Types<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 28px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 28px;\">Motion Control (Positioning Control)<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 28px;\">\u00a0Zero Backlash<\/p>\n<p>High torsional rigidity<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 28px;\">Disc\/Slit<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 29px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 13%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 29px;\">\u00a0Power Transmission<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 27%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 29px;\">High Torque Transmission<\/p>\n<p>Shock Absorption<\/p>\n<p>Allowable misalignment<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 22.814%; background-color: #ffffff; padding-top: 2px; padding-bottom: 4px; border: 1px solid #999999; height: 29px;\">Joe Oldham<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>For motion control applications, rotational play compromises positioning accuracy, so it is necessary to select a zero-backlash type. On the other hand, for applications where power transmission is a priority, it is important to select a coupling that meets the required torque and verifies the allowable torque.<\/p>\n<p>After narrowing down the types, proceed to selecting a size where the corrected torque is within the allowable torque range, verifying the shaft bore diameter, selecting the fastening method, and performing a final dimensional check. By checking these items in order, it becomes easier to narrow down the candidates.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #fff; background: #c3effa; line-height: 20px; font-size: 23px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><span style=\"color: #000000; font-size: 18pt;\"><strong>How to Verify Allowable Torque and Misalignment Tolerance<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Verifying the allowable torque and misalignment tolerance is a step undertaken during the coupling sizing process.<\/p>\n<p>[Size Selection Verification Procedure]<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Calculate the corrected torque by multiplying the motor\u2019s maximum torque by the correction factor<\/li>\n<li>Selecting a coupling size such that the <a href=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/safety-factor\/\">corrected torque<\/a> is equal to or less than the coupling\u2019s allowable torque<\/li>\n<li>Verify that the misalignment values for eccentricity, angular misalignment, and end play are within the allowable limits<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>If misalignment exceeds the allowable limits, it may cause vibration or rapidly reduce the coupling\u2019s lifespan.<\/p>\n<p>A point requiring particular attention is that when two or more types of misalignment\u2014such as eccentricity and angular misalignment\u2014occur simultaneously, the allowable values for each are generally limited to half of their individual values. Since complex misalignments often occur in actual installation environments, a design that keeps the total misalignment within one-third of the allowable value is recommended.<\/p>\n<p>Please determine the appropriate size for your equipment while also confirming the available space, shaft bore diameter, and fastening method.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"color: #fff; background: #c3effa; line-height: 20px; font-size: 23px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><span style=\"color: #000000; font-size: 18pt;\"><strong>The Impact of Motor Characteristics on Coupling Selection<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The impact of motor characteristics on coupling selection is a critical factor that determines the overall performance of the system and must not be overlooked. When combining a coupling with a control motor (such as a servo motor), using a coupling with low torsional rigidity can cause a misalignment in the rotational angles between the motor side and the load side, which may compromise positioning accuracy. On the other hand, for applications where vibration suppression is required, a coupling with excellent vibration-damping properties and low susceptibility to resonance is the appropriate choice.<\/p>\n<p>The appropriate coupling characteristics vary depending on the type of motor.For applications requiring high-speed, high-precision positioning control, high-rigidity disc-type or slit-type couplings with zero backlash are the leading choices. In applications where vibration absorption is a priority, adopting a rubber-type coupling with high damping capacity allows you to maximize motor performance while preventing system resonance. For general-purpose motors, where continuous rotation in one direction is the primary requirement, Oldham-type or jaw-type couplings\u2014which offer a high tolerance for misalignment\u2014are the main options.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, the vibration characteristics and rotational accuracy of the motor itself directly affect the load on the coupling. For example, using a motor with minimal cogging (rotational irregularities) reduces the irregular forces acting on the coupling and improves the stability of the entire system. When selecting a coupling, it is essential to consider not only the allowable torque and misalignment tolerance listed in the catalog but also the quality of the motor serving as the drive source.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #fff; background: #437ae8; line-height: 70px; font-size: 30px; margin: 10; padding-left: 1em; padding: 1em;\"><strong>Summary<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-11173\" src=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/c7887a92414f854a9067849a51b9bb02-540x304.jpg\" alt=\"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS\" width=\"540\" height=\"304\" \/><\/p>\n<div>\n<p>\u00a0A coupling is a mechanical component that connects a driving shaft to a driven shaft to transmit power. In addition to power transmission, it serves to compensate for mounting errors (misalignment), absorb vibrations and shocks, and minimize the transfer of heat from the motor to the driven side.<\/p>\n<p>Couplings come in various types, including disc, jaw, Oldham, bellows, and rigid types. When selecting a coupling, narrow down the options based on the application and motor type, and ensure that the correction torque does not exceed the allowable torque while verifying the allowable values for eccentricity, angular misalignment, and end play.<\/p>\n<p>Additionally, when selecting a coupling, it is necessary to verify the type of motor to be paired with it and the operating conditions. When considering a motor-coupling combination, select the coupling type based on the required positioning accuracy and vibration damping performance. If you are looking for compact, high-precision motors, please visit the C.I. Takiron Corporation product website.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Product Information &amp; Inquiries<\/span><\/p>\n<p>For more details on C.I. Takiron\u2019s micro motor products, please visit the website below.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong> Product Site:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/\"> https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong> Coreless Motors:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/products\/list\/coreless-motors-en\/\"> https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/products\/list\/coreless_motor\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong> Brushless Motors:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/products\/list\/brushless_motors-en\/\"> https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/products\/list\/brushless_motor\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong> Geared Motors:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/products\/list\/gearheads-en\/\"> https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/products\/list\/gearhead\/<\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong> Encoders:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/products\/list\/encoders-en\/\"> https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/products\/list\/encoder\/<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you are having trouble selecting a small motor for your product development, please feel free to contact us via the inquiry form. Our technical staff will discuss your application and requirements with you and propose the optimal solution.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong> Inquiries:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/contact\/\"> https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/contact\/<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In manufacturing equipment and industrial equipment, couplings (shaft couplings) are used to accurately transmit power from a motor to a driven shaft. A coupling is a mechanical component that connects the drive shaft and the driven shaft, serving functions such as absorbing mounting misalignment and dampening vibrations. However, there are several types of couplings\u2014including jaw-type, disc-type, and bellows-type\u2014and selection must be based on the specific application and required characteristics. This article provides a systematic explanation ranging from the basic functions of couplings to their main types and characteristics, as well as key points for selection. It also summarizes how to pair couplings with motors\u2014essential knowledge for maximizing coupling performance during motor selection. \u00a0 Supervised by: C.I. TAKIRON Corporation Electronic Devices&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":11162,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_themeisle_gutenberg_block_has_review":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[172],"tags":[531,816,817,818,819,820,821,822,823,824],"class_list":["post-11156","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-column","tag-motor","tag-coupling","tag-shaft-coupling","tag-drive-shaft","tag-driven-shaft","tag-misalignment","tag-disk-type","tag-jaw-type","tag-bellows-type","tag-allowable-torque"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS\uff5cC.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"In manufacturing equipment and industrial equipment, couplings (shaft couplings) are used to accurately transmit power from a motor to a driven shaft. A coupling is a mechanical component that connects the drive shaft and the driven shaft, serving functions such as absorbing mounting misalignment and dampening vibrations. However, there are several types of couplings\u2014including jaw-type, disc-type, and bellows-type\u2014and selection must be based on the specific application and required characteristics. This article provides a systematic explanation ranging from the basic functions of couplings to their main types and characteristics, as well as key points for selection. It also summarizes how to pair couplings with motors\u2014essential knowledge for maximizing coupling performance during motor selection.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS\uff5cC.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"In manufacturing equipment and industrial equipment, couplings (shaft couplings) are used to accurately transmit power from a motor to a driven shaft. A coupling is a mechanical component that connects the drive shaft and the driven shaft, serving functions such as absorbing mounting misalignment and dampening vibrations. However, there are several types of couplings\u2014including jaw-type, disc-type, and bellows-type\u2014and selection must be based on the specific application and required characteristics. This article provides a systematic explanation ranging from the basic functions of couplings to their main types and characteristics, as well as key points for selection. It also summarizes how to pair couplings with motors\u2014essential knowledge for maximizing coupling performance during motor selection.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"C.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-06-23T08:14:11+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-06-29T03:02:39+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/2.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1920\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1277\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"\u897f\u5c71\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"\u897f\u5c71\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"40 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/column\\\/coupling\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/column\\\/coupling\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"\u897f\u5c71\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/c856e2ce105aa6c7cbb6e8315aa2dc34\"},\"headline\":\"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-06-23T08:14:11+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-06-29T03:02:39+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/column\\\/coupling\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":\"2393\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/column\\\/coupling\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/2.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"Motor\",\"Coupling\",\"Shaft coupling\",\"Drive shaft\",\"Driven shaft\",\"Misalignment\",\"Disk type\",\"Jaw type\",\"Bellows type\",\"Allowable torque\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Column\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/column\\\/coupling\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/column\\\/coupling\\\/\",\"name\":\"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS | C.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/column\\\/coupling\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/column\\\/coupling\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/2.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-06-23T08:14:11+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-06-29T03:02:39+00:00\",\"description\":\"In manufacturing equipment and industrial equipment, couplings (shaft couplings) are used to accurately transmit power from a motor to a driven shaft. A coupling is a mechanical component that connects the drive shaft and the driven shaft, serving functions such as absorbing mounting misalignment and dampening vibrations. However, there are several types of couplings\u2014including jaw-type, disc-type, and bellows-type\u2014and selection must be based on the specific application and required characteristics. This article provides a systematic explanation ranging from the basic functions of couplings to their main types and characteristics, as well as key points for selection. It also summarizes how to pair couplings with motors\u2014essential knowledge for maximizing coupling performance during motor selection.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/column\\\/coupling\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/column\\\/coupling\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/column\\\/coupling\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/2.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/06\\\/2.jpg\",\"width\":\"1920\",\"height\":\"1277\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/column\\\/coupling\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":\"1\",\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":\"2\",\"name\":\"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/\",\"name\":\"C.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.\",\"description\":\"\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":\"1\",\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"C.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/04\\\/favicon.webp\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/04\\\/favicon.webp\",\"width\":\"32\",\"height\":\"32\",\"caption\":\"C.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/en\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/c856e2ce105aa6c7cbb6e8315aa2dc34\",\"name\":\"\u897f\u5c71\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/avatar\\\/0016e29ee5176fa1f14b92602dfc9b4b322401c3545dab79bb6536838e8d49d1?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/avatar\\\/0016e29ee5176fa1f14b92602dfc9b4b322401c3545dab79bb6536838e8d49d1?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cik-ele.com\\\/avatar\\\/0016e29ee5176fa1f14b92602dfc9b4b322401c3545dab79bb6536838e8d49d1?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"\u897f\u5c71\"}}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS\uff5cC.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.","description":"In manufacturing equipment and industrial equipment, couplings (shaft couplings) are used to accurately transmit power from a motor to a driven shaft. A coupling is a mechanical component that connects the drive shaft and the driven shaft, serving functions such as absorbing mounting misalignment and dampening vibrations. However, there are several types of couplings\u2014including jaw-type, disc-type, and bellows-type\u2014and selection must be based on the specific application and required characteristics. This article provides a systematic explanation ranging from the basic functions of couplings to their main types and characteristics, as well as key points for selection. It also summarizes how to pair couplings with motors\u2014essential knowledge for maximizing coupling performance during motor selection.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS\uff5cC.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.","og_description":"In manufacturing equipment and industrial equipment, couplings (shaft couplings) are used to accurately transmit power from a motor to a driven shaft. A coupling is a mechanical component that connects the drive shaft and the driven shaft, serving functions such as absorbing mounting misalignment and dampening vibrations. However, there are several types of couplings\u2014including jaw-type, disc-type, and bellows-type\u2014and selection must be based on the specific application and required characteristics. This article provides a systematic explanation ranging from the basic functions of couplings to their main types and characteristics, as well as key points for selection. It also summarizes how to pair couplings with motors\u2014essential knowledge for maximizing coupling performance during motor selection.","og_url":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/","og_site_name":"C.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.","article_published_time":"2026-06-23T08:14:11+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-06-29T03:02:39+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1920,"height":1277,"url":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/2.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"\u897f\u5c71","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"\u897f\u5c71","Est. reading time":"40 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/"},"author":{"name":"\u897f\u5c71","@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/#\/schema\/person\/c856e2ce105aa6c7cbb6e8315aa2dc34"},"headline":"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS","datePublished":"2026-06-23T08:14:11+00:00","dateModified":"2026-06-29T03:02:39+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/"},"wordCount":"2393","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/2.jpg","keywords":["Motor","Coupling","Shaft coupling","Drive shaft","Driven shaft","Misalignment","Disk type","Jaw type","Bellows type","Allowable torque"],"articleSection":["Column"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/","url":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/","name":"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS | C.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/2.jpg","datePublished":"2026-06-23T08:14:11+00:00","dateModified":"2026-06-29T03:02:39+00:00","description":"In manufacturing equipment and industrial equipment, couplings (shaft couplings) are used to accurately transmit power from a motor to a driven shaft. A coupling is a mechanical component that connects the drive shaft and the driven shaft, serving functions such as absorbing mounting misalignment and dampening vibrations. However, there are several types of couplings\u2014including jaw-type, disc-type, and bellows-type\u2014and selection must be based on the specific application and required characteristics. This article provides a systematic explanation ranging from the basic functions of couplings to their main types and characteristics, as well as key points for selection. It also summarizes how to pair couplings with motors\u2014essential knowledge for maximizing coupling performance during motor selection.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/2.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/2.jpg","width":"1920","height":"1277"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/column\/coupling\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":"1","name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":"2","name":"WHAT IS A COUPLING? AN EXPLANATION OF ITS ROLE, TYPES, AND SELECTION BASICS"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/#website","url":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/","name":"C.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.","description":"","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":"1","valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/#organization","name":"C.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site.","url":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/favicon.webp","contentUrl":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/favicon.webp","width":"32","height":"32","caption":"C.I. TAKIRON Corporation. Micro motor product site."},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/#\/schema\/person\/c856e2ce105aa6c7cbb6e8315aa2dc34","name":"\u897f\u5c71","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/avatar\/0016e29ee5176fa1f14b92602dfc9b4b322401c3545dab79bb6536838e8d49d1?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/avatar\/0016e29ee5176fa1f14b92602dfc9b4b322401c3545dab79bb6536838e8d49d1?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/avatar\/0016e29ee5176fa1f14b92602dfc9b4b322401c3545dab79bb6536838e8d49d1?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"\u897f\u5c71"}}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11156","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11156"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11156\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11319,"href":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11156\/revisions\/11319"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11162"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11156"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11156"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cik-ele.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11156"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}