The following factors will accelerate deterioration of rubber:
- Age
- Heat
- Ultraviolet light (UV light)
- Petroleum products
- Solvents
- Anaerobic adhesives (thread lock compound)
- Ozone
Anaerobic adhesives can also deteriorate the bond between rubber elements and the steel flange or the hub.
In an environment that is free of aggressive chemicals and free of light, the main cause of any acceleration of deterioration of the rubber is heat.
There are five causes of heat buildup in rubber coupling elements:
- High ambient temperature
- Damping of torsional vibrations
- Compensation for angular misalignment
- Compensation for radial misalignment or for offset
- Compensation for axial misalignment or for movement
In a controlled environment, the destructive conditions can be minimized. The rubber couplings can have a long useful life.
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| Illustration 1 | g01322929 |
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Flexible coupling (1) Outer coupling (2) Rubber element (3) Hardness stamp | |
Preventive Maintenance Schedule
For detailed maintenance and inspection information, refer to Special Instruction, REHS3401.
Maintenance for the Rubber Flexible Coupling consists of four activities:
- Keep the coupling free of excessive heat, UV light, petroleum products, solvents, anaerobic adhesives, and ozone.
- Periodically inspect the rubber and the metal components for any imperfections, for stress, and for wear.
- Check the torque for the fasteners periodically.
- Check the alignment periodically.
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| Illustration 2 | g01323258 |
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(1) Rubber areas that are peeling away from the steel hub
(2) Wear at the loaded side of the teeth | |
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| Illustration 3 | g01323319 |
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Detail A Cracks in the rubber | |
During visual inspection of the rubber element, note any rubber areas that are peeling away from the steel hub.
During visual inspection of the rubber element, note any tears or cracks in the center of the rubber element. Refer to Illustration 3.