The Concept and Importance of Universal Joint Phasing and Drive Shaft Alignment
Phasing is the process of aligning the universal joint yokes on both ends of the drive shaft (or double u-joint) in a parallel fashion. If the joints are not properly phased, they will operate at varying speeds throughout each revolution which can cause second-order vibrations. U joint vibrations can lead to increased wear and potential damage to the assembly and failure of the application.
U Joint Phasing & Alignment Diagram
Belden Universal's trained technicians properly phase the universal joints onto the shaft during assembly, ensuring that the inbound vs outbound shaft of the universal joint assembly operate at near-constant velocity, minimizing vibration, noise, and premature wear of the joints. Refer to the u joint diagram below.
To further support near-constant velocity, driving and driven shafts are required to be aligned in either the “W” formation (equal true angles) or “Z” formation (parallel). It is important that the drive shaft is not angled further in a '3rd dimension'. ” In addition to diminished velocity and reduced efficiency, improper shaft alignment contributes to the failure of the shaft components and even the application itself.
A word of caution: even though driving and driven shafts are now at a constant velocity, this is not true for the center section – that still fluctuates which can cause problems at elevated speeds of @ 4000 RPM.
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Please reach out to our technical sales and engineers to answer any questions and assist you with drive shaft alignment and phasing of your universal joints.
