Four-wheel clutch on a cylinder pump

Drum pumps    are important equipment used in the chemical, food, pharmaceutical, and petroleum industries to pump liquids from drums, tanks, and large containers. One of the main components of these pumps is    the four-lobe clutch,     which plays an important role in transmitting power and torque from the motor to the pump. This article will discuss     the applications, advantages, disadvantages, and how to choose a four-piece coupling for a cylinder pump .

Vierradkupplungen in Zylinderpumpen: Anwendung, Vorteile und Auswahl


1. What is a quadriromandibular joint?

A four-blade coupling (or four-arm coupling) is a     flexible coupling     consisting of four metal or polymer arms that is used to connect two shafts (such as a motor shaft and a pump shaft). Due to their special design, these couplings are able to absorb vibrations, axial and angular deviations and prevent damage to the shaft and bearings.

The main components of four-way communication are:

  • Half-shafts      : connect the motor shaft to the pump shaft.
  • Flexible arms (blades):      transmit torque and absorb vibrations.
  • Fastening screws     : are used to connect and secure connections.

Pumpenmotor Debem EL 0.8


2. Application of the four-blade coupling in    the drum pump

Drum pumps are often used in industrial environments where  there may be vibration, sudden shock, or misalignment of the shaft .     The four-part connections of these pumps have the following areas of application:

a) Torque transmission without slippage

  • The tight connection between the motor and the pump    prevents slippage  and loss  of efficiency.

b) Absorption of vibrations and mechanical shocks.

  •  For pumps that    use viscous fluids or corrosive chemicals , vibration can cause shaft damage.     The four-pin connector reduces these vibrations.

c) Compensation of the column displacement

  • In some cases,   the motor shaft and pump shaft are not perfectly aligned. This coupling is capable of compensating    for axial and angular displacements .

d) Extension of the service life of pumps and motors.

  • By reducing mechanical stress, wear on bearings and shafts is prevented.


3. Advantages of a four-shaft coupling in a cylinder pump

✅ High flexibility   :   Various degrees of misalignment are allowed   .
✅ No lubrication required     : Unlike gear couplings, there is no need for constant lubrication.
✅ Easy to install and replace     : Thanks to the simple design, maintenance is easy.
✅ Corrosion resistance  : Whether  polymer materials  or stainless steel are used, they are highly resistant to chemical influences.
✅ Availability     : Less expensive than more modern connectors.


4. Disadvantages and limitations of four-point connections

❌ Limited torque tolerance     : Not suitable for pumps with very high torque.
❌ Arm wear     : With constant use under vibrating conditions, the arms can wear out.
❌ Regular check-ups     : The health of your hands and joints should be checked regularly.

Vierradkupplungen in Zylinderpumpen: Anwendung, Vorteile und Auswahl


5. How to Choose the Right Four-Piece Clutch for a Cylinder Pump

To choose the best four-piece hinge,    you   should consider the following factors:

a) Side pair

b) Speed (rpm)

  • Some connections can become unstable at high speeds.

c) Material zur Konjugation

  • Steel    : Suitable for heavy loads and harsh conditions.
  • Polymer (polyurethane)    : Environmentally friendly.