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, equivalent to drive shafts and steering columns, in addition to in industrial equipment and robotics. There are a number of kinds 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 is determined by the particular necessities of the appliance, such because the angle of misalignment, the torque load, and the velocity of rotation.
Common joints are vital parts in lots of functions as a result of they permit shafts to transmit torque at angles that might not be potential with strong shafts. This makes them important for functions the place shafts should be aligned at angles, equivalent to in drive shafts and steering columns. Common joints additionally enable for some misalignment between shafts, which might be attributable to components equivalent to manufacturing tolerances, put on, and vibration.
