A common joint, also called a U-joint or Cardan joint, is a mechanical part that enables the transmission of torque between two shafts that aren’t aligned. Common joints are generally utilized in automotive functions, resembling drive shafts and steering columns, in addition to in industrial equipment and robotics. There are a number of forms of common joints, together with single U-joints, double U-joints, and fixed velocity (CV) joints. The kind of common joint utilized in a specific utility relies on the precise necessities of the appliance, such because the angle of misalignment, the torque load, and the velocity of rotation.
Common joints are essential parts in lots of functions as a result of they permit shafts to transmit torque at angles that might not be doable with stable shafts. This makes them important for functions the place shafts should be aligned at angles, resembling in drive shafts and steering columns. Common joints additionally enable for some misalignment between shafts, which will be attributable to elements resembling manufacturing tolerances, put on, and vibration.
