koppelingspaal

A koppelingspaal, which translates to "coupling pole" in English, is a component used in various mechanical systems, primarily in older industrial machinery and agricultural equipment. Its function is to connect two rotating shafts or components, enabling the transfer of rotational power from one to the other. Essentially, it acts as a rigid intermediary, ensuring that the motion of the driving shaft is directly replicated by the driven shaft.

Koppelingspalen are typically constructed from robust materials like steel to withstand the torsional forces and stresses involved in power transmission. They often feature specific mounting points or splines at each end, designed to securely engage with the shafts they are connecting. The length and diameter of the koppelingspaal are determined by the specific application and the power requirements of the machinery.

While the term "koppelingspaal" is Dutch, the concept of a rigid coupling pole for power transmission is a universal engineering principle. In modern engineering, more advanced and flexible coupling designs have largely replaced the simpler koppelingspaal. These newer designs often incorporate features like elastomeric elements or universal joints to compensate for misalignment between shafts, reduce vibration, and absorb shock loads, which a rigid koppelingspaal cannot do. Therefore, the koppelingspaal is most commonly encountered in historical or less sophisticated mechanical assemblies.