Small Coupling

Description

The small coupling is a compact flexible connector between a motor shaft and a lead screw or ball screw, used where shafts are thinner, such as on lighter axes or the Z axis of smaller CNC and laser machines. It keeps the screw turning in step with the motor while allowing for slight offset between the two shafts.

Slight slip at the coupling shows up as uneven engraving depth, shifted layers, or an axis losing position after rapid moves. Draw a pen line across the coupling and both shafts; if the marks separate after running, the coupling is slipping. Tighten the set or clamp screws evenly, and replace it if the flexible body is cracked.

Since small couplings come in many bore combinations, measure the motor shaft and the screw shaft separately and note whether the coupling grips by set screw or by clamp. Send Top Laser these figures or a photo with a caliper reading, and we will help you choose a coupling that fits both shafts without modification.