What is a Hydraulic Coupling?
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Hydraulic coupling, also known as fluid coupling, is a hydrodynamic device used to connect a power source (typically an engine or motor) to a working machine, transmitting torque through changes in the angular momentum of the fluid. Below is an introduction to hydraulic couplings: In automotive applications, the pump wheel of the hydraulic coupling is connected to the engine's flywheel. Power is transmitted from the engine crankshaft, and the fluid circulates between the pump wheel and the turbine, transferring torque from the engine to the transmission to drive the vehicle forward. The advantages of hydraulic couplings include flexible transmission, automatic adaptation, shock absorption, and torsional vibration isolation. They improve the starting capability of the power source, enabling it to start under load or no-load conditions. They also provide overload protection, preventing damage to the motor and working machine when external loads exceed limits. Additionally, hydraulic couplings offer energy-saving benefits by reducing the motor's starting current and duration, minimizing grid impact, and lowering the motor's installed capacity. For high-inertia, hard-to-start machinery, torque-limiting hydraulic couplings are used, while centrifugal machinery benefits significantly from speed-regulating hydraulic couplings. Except for bearings and oil seals, there is no direct mechanical friction, resulting in low failure rates and long service life.