Mechanical Power Transmission System

Mechanical Power Transmission System

Mechanical power transmission is defined as the the transfer of energy from where it’s generated to the point where it is utilized. This process is used to perform work using different components such as simple machines, linkages and mechanical power transmission elements. Simple components of mechanical transmission system involves shaft, bearing, coupling and mechanical drives.

Shaft

Shaft

A shaft is a rotating machine element which is commonly having a circular cross section and it is used to transmit power from the prime mover to the driven device.

Bearing

Bearing

Bearing is used to support and guide the rotating machine to achieve minimum amount of friction. There are 2 types of bearing i.e. plain bearing and anti-friction bearing. Plain bearing allows the moving element of the machine to slide over the bearing surface and is separated only by a lubrication film. On the other hand, anti-friction bearings uses balls and rollers to guide machine's rotational motion. 

Coupling

Mechanical coupling connects the prime mover and the driven device. This is widely used in applications such as pump-motor assembly, motor-compressor assembly, turbine-generator and many others. There are 4 basic types of couplings such as rigid, flexible, universal joint and clutch. Each of the mentioned design are applied to specific purposes. 

Mechanical Drives

Mechanical drives are also used to transmit mechanical power from the prime mover to the driven device. There are 3 types of mechanical drives used in the industry i.e. belt drive, chain drive and gear drives. Each type also applied to specific purposes.