Metal Universal Joints

Universal joints are used to transmit power, motion or both. It is a mechanical connection between intersecting shafts, which are usually not parallel. Cardan joint or Hooke joint is the most common and consists of two yokes, one on each shaft, connected by a cross-shaped intermediate member called the spider. The angle between the shafts is called the operating angle. It is usually constant during operation, but not necessarily so. Good design practice calls for low operating angles, often less than 25°.
Universal joints are available in steel or in thermoplastic body members. For maximum load-carrying capacity for a given size a steel universal joint should be selected. Universal joints with thermoplastic body members are used in light industrial applications in which their self-lubricating feature, light weight, negligible backlash, corrosion resistance and capability for high-speed operation are significant advantages. Ball-jointed universals are used for high-speed operation and for carrying large torques. They are available in miniature and standard sizes.
SDP pioneered the concept of combining the exceptional qualities of selected plastic materials with different metals to create products which incorporate both. “SUPER-PLAST®” designs have the following advantages:
Inexpensive replacement of metal components
Dampens vibration
Corrosive and chemical resistant
Electrically insulated