WSS Telescopic Cardan Universal Joint Shaft

Product Overview

The WSS Telescopic Cardan Universal Joint Shaft is designed to transmit rotary power between shafts operating at an angle while accommodating changes in shaft length. Its telescopic structure makes it suitable for machinery where the distance between connected components may vary during operation or installation.

The WSS series is available with different joint and bearing configurations to meet a range of industrial transmission requirements. Standard construction uses high-quality 40Cr steel, while alternative materials such as 304 or 316 stainless steel may be available for suitable applications. Selected upgraded configurations can also be manufactured using 42CrMo alloy steel; material availability should be confirmed for the required model.

Precision-finished joint components help reduce clearance and support smooth articulation. Shaft lengths, bore configurations, keyways and other mounting details can be customized according to drawings and operating conditions.

Key Features

• Telescopic shaft design: Accommodates required axial length adjustment within the specified design range.

• Angular power transmission: Connects shafts operating at an angle within the permitted articulation limits.

• Precision-finished joints: Designed for controlled clearance and smooth movement.

• Two bearing options: Sliding-block and needle roller bearing configurations are available.

• Multiple speed configurations: Select the bearing type according to the required operating speed and load.

• Durable steel construction: Standard 40Cr steel, with selected alternative materials available on request.

• Customizable dimensions: Special shaft lengths, bore sizes and mounting configurations can be discussed.

• Surface treatment options: Available finishes may include black oxide, nickel plating, chrome plating and other treatments, depending on the configuration.

• Optional dust protection: A protective boot may be available to help keep contaminants away from the joint.

Technical Specifications

Technical note: Maximum angle and speed are configuration-dependent. The stated 45° is the maximum articulation per joint section, not a recommendation for continuous operation at that angle. The recommended working angle is within 30° per section according to the supplied information. Actual limits depend on model, speed, torque, lubrication and operating conditions. Confirm the manufacturer’s drawing before final selection.

Bearing Options: Sliding Block vs. Needle Roller

Sliding-Block Type

The sliding-block configuration is intended for applications where the specified speed and load requirements can be met by the sliding joint structure. The supplied product data lists a maximum speed of up to 1,000 RPM for this configuration.

Needle Roller Bearing Type

The needle roller bearing configuration is intended for applications requiring higher rotational speeds within the rated operating limits. The supplied data lists a maximum speed of up to 4,000 RPM for selected needle roller configurations.

The maximum figures are not guaranteed operating speeds for every size. When selecting a bearing type, consider torque, duty cycle, lubrication, joint angle and the required service life.

How Does a Telescopic Cardan Universal Joint Shaft Work?

A Cardan universal joint transmits torque between two shafts whose centerlines intersect at an angle. The joint allows the connected shafts to rotate while accommodating angular misalignment within its design limits.

The telescopic section allows the effective shaft length to change within the specified stroke. This is useful when equipment geometry requires axial movement, installation adjustment or a changing distance between connected components.

The joint angle, telescopic travel, rotational speed and torque capacity must all remain within the selected model’s limits. For applications requiring a constant output speed, consider the operating characteristics of a single universal joint and whether a correctly phased double-joint arrangement is needed.

Typical Applications

The WSS telescopic universal shaft can be considered for:

• Packaging machinery

• Woodworking machinery

• Multi-spindle drilling machines

• Metallurgical equipment

• General industrial machinery

• Specialized mechanical transmission systems

• Equipment requiring adjustable shaft length and angular power transmission

The correct shaft should be selected according to the machine’s operating speed, torque, angle, telescopic travel and installation space.

Material and Surface Treatment Options

The standard material listed for the WSS series is 40Cr steel. Depending on the design and application, alternative material options may include 304 or 316 stainless steel. Selected upgraded models may be available in 42CrMo alloy steel.

Surface treatment options may include natural finish, black oxide, nickel plating, chrome plating and other corrosion-protection treatments, subject to product availability and technical requirements.

Please specify the working environment, including moisture, dust, temperature and exposure to corrosive substances, so the appropriate material and finish can be reviewed.

Customization and OEM Manufacturing

Apex Coupling supports inquiries for non-standard universal joint shafts. Depending on feasibility, customization may include:

• Overall shaft length and telescopic travel

• Bore diameter and tolerance

• Keyway or hexagonal bore

• Sliding-block or needle roller bearing configuration

• Material selection

• Surface treatment

• Optional dust protection

• Special mounting dimensions based on customer drawings

For a quotation, please provide the shaft drawing or dimensions, required quantity, operating torque, speed, working angle, telescopic travel and application details.

How to Select the Right WSS Universal Joint Shaft

1. Confirm the shaft length and travel. Specify the installed length and the required telescopic movement.

2. Calculate the operating torque. Include normal running torque, starting torque and peak loads.

3. Check the working angle. Keep the operating angle within the model’s recommended limit.

4. Choose the bearing type. Compare the speed and load requirements against the selected sliding-block or needle roller configuration.

5. Specify the material. Confirm whether standard 40Cr steel or an alternative material is required.

6. Confirm the mounting connection. Specify the bore diameter, H7 tolerance where required, keyway, hexagonal bore or other interface.

7. Consider the environment. Select an appropriate surface treatment and determine whether a dust boot is needed.

8. Review the technical drawing. Verify dimensions, telescopic travel, lubrication requirements and allowable operating conditions before installation.

Request a Quote

Looking for a WSS telescopic Cardan universal joint shaft for your equipment? Send Apex Coupling your shaft dimensions, operating conditions and technical drawing for a configuration review.

OEM and ODM inquiries for special lengths, mounting interfaces, materials and surface treatments are welcome.

Email: ella@apexcoupling.com
WhatsApp: +86 13437856962

Contact our team to discuss your application, technical requirements and quotation.