The Ringfeder-Henfel-Henflex HDFB split elastic couplings, available from leading supplier Bearings International (BI), are ideal for the most demanding applications and aggressive environments in mining, ports, and steel factories, among others. The HDFB couplings are suitable for all low-speed, high-torque applications where minimal equipment downtime is essential.

Developed under the most modern concepts of application engineering and advanced 3D project and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) techniques, the HDFB split elastic couplings allow efficient torque transmission through the compression of its flexible elements, which also absorb shocks and vibrations from the drive and driven machine, besides compensating angular, radial and axial misalignments.

The couplings feature EM-GJS-450-10 ductile cast iron and polyurethane flexible elements. They can operate within a broad temperature range of -30°C to 85°C. Advantages include a long lifespan and simple, fast, and low-cost maintenance. Due to the simple construction, installation is both fast and safe. The couplings are available in many sizes, for applications up to 600 mm, and a torque capacity from 96.700 Nm up to 1 147.600 Nm.

Features include radial mounting and dismounting, on-site maintenance, reduced operating costs, no need for special tools, no need for drive or driven machine displacement, alignment preservation, lubrication-free, and interchangeability, according to BI Product Manager Hilton Woest. BI currently offers the Ringfeder TNB buffer coupling and the HDFB split elastic coupling, which is dimensionally interchangeable with the TNB.

“This makes it easier for customers already using buffer roller couplings to change over to the new split coupling design with ease. They are interchangeable with most of the traditional elastic couplings on the market. With minor changes, these can replace grid and gear couplings,” Woest comments.

BI can supply all spares and components through its extensive branch network, in addition to full engineering and technical support. Woest reveals that Ringfeder delegates will be visiting South Africa at the end of the year, at which time BI will be apprised of any further developments planned for the local market.

At the end of 2015, Henfel was acquired by Ringfeder Power Transmission GmbH. Its brands include Gerwah® metal bellows couplings, servo-insert couplings, torsionally-rigid disc couplings, safety couplings, and Henfel® bearing housings, flexible couplings, hydrodynamic couplings, variable speed hydraulic couplings, and industrial brakes.

Ringfeder offers complete and unique power transmission solutions, with extensive high-level technical support. Other Ringfeder products available from BI include Tschan flexible couplings, Normex Flexible couplings, Ringfeder locking elements, and Ringfeder shrink discs.