Diaphragm Couplings

Ameriflex Diaphragms

Designed specifically for the rigorous demands of the turbo-machinery industry, the Ameriflex multiple convoluted diaphragm coupling was introduced in 1971. Since that time, rotating equipment has continued to demand lighter weight and more powerful couplings. Ameriflex couplings are able to satisfy these demands and continue to set new standards for performance and reliability.

The Ameriflex design offers many advantageous features:

• High torque to weight ratio.
• Flex element sub-assemblies are field replaceable.
• Low windage and horsepower loss.
• Diaphragms are 15-5 PH stainless steel.
• High torque to diameter ratio.
• Low repeatable unbalance.
• Diaphragms are designed for infinite life using Finite Element Analysis verified by strain gage and
  dynamic testing.
• R Series integral filler design maintains diaphragm flex area separation with optimized
  convolution form.
• Customized are designs available for unique applications.
• Multiple separated diaphragms in a pack provide a built-in, fail-safe feature.
• Diaphragms are shot-peened for improved fatigue strength and stress corrosion resistance.
• Diaphragms capable of operating in extreme environments without protective coatings.
• All Ameriflex couplings are manufactured to API-671 requirements.
• Maintenance free for years of dependable performance.
• Symmetrical diaphragm does not subject connected equipment to an alternating moment.
• Black oxided, heat treated, alloy steel torque transmitting components are standard.
• Large axial travel capability with constant axial stiffness.
• Low bending moment and axial force while maintaining high torque capacity, resulting in lower
  bearing loads.

Ameriflex Dry Disconnect

The above animation shows a Series RMD Ameriflex Dry Disconnect in action.

Significant Long Term Cost Savings

• Designed for Infinite Life.
• Multiple Diaphragms provide a Built-in, Fail-safe Feature.
• Separated Diaphragms Eliminate Wear in Flex Area.
• Convoluted Diaphragms have Low Bending Moment and Axial Force.
• Maintenance free for years of dependable performance.
• Increased Dynamic Balance Repeatability.
• Turbine Trip Speed Validation without Coupling Removal.
• Drop-in Replacement for existing high performance disconnect gear couplings.

Size 12-8 RR/RM Ameriflex This coupling in installed at an offshore platform used for gas compression. This is a Size 12-8 RR/RM Ameriflex coupling connecting a compressor to gearbox. An RM hub was installed on the compressor end to reduce the overhung moment on the equipment. This unit operates at approximately 13,500 HP at 5,500 RPM with 36 inches between shaft ends.
Size 23-10 HP Ameriflex This coupling is a size 23-10 HP coupling connecting an LM6000 aeroderivative gas turbine to a generator. This unit operates at approximately 67,000 HP at 3,600 RPM with 106" between shaft ends. There are numerous installations worldwide using this coupling.
High Angle Ameriflex in Aircraft Application This coupling design was the first use of the integral filler diaphragm design concept. This coupling is capable of more than 2.5° angular misalignment and is used on aircraft applications.
80" Ameriflex on a Nuclear Submarine This 80" diaphragm coupling is the largest multiple diaphragm coupling ever built. This unit is used in the propulsion of a nuclear submarine and is designed for infinite life.