SMT SinoMillTech

Rolling mill drive components

Cardan Shafts & Universal Couplings for Rolling Mills

Cardan shafts, also called universal joint shafts, transmit torque between shafts operating at an angle. Telescopic designs also accommodate axial movement. Explore SWC integral-fork shafts, SWP split-bearing-housing shafts and separate drum gear coupling options for rolling mill and industrial drives.

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Product configurations

SWC Universal Drive Shafts

Integral-fork cross-shaft configurations, including telescopic and non-telescopic designs. Choose the required axial compensation and flange arrangement before checking the individual size.

Product configurations

SWP Universal Drive Shafts

Split-bearing-housing cross-shaft configurations. The listed A, E and F arrangements are presented by configuration; the selected model and load capacity need drawing and duty confirmation.

Product configurations

Drum Gear Couplings

GIICLZ and WGT are gear couplings, not cross-shaft universal joints. Review the shaft connection, permitted displacement and lubrication requirements separately from a cardan shaft selection.

Compare the arrangements

SWC, SWP or a drum gear coupling?

Start with the connection and movement required by your equipment. A similar appearance or series reference does not establish replacement suitability.

Configuration comparison for an initial drive-component enquiry
SeriesConstructionSelection focus
SWCIntegral-fork cross-shaft universal coupling; telescopic and non-telescopic configurations.Required working angle, axial travel, installation length, flange interface, torque and speed.
SWPSplit-bearing-housing cross-shaft universal coupling; A, E and F configurations shown below.Operating duty, bearing arrangement, telescopic travel, assembly access and flange dimensions.
GIICLZ / WGTCrowned-tooth gear coupling; distinct from a cross-shaft universal joint.Bore and shaft interface, permitted displacement, lubrication, sealing and torque capacity.

This comparison describes configuration families, not a rated-capacity table. Permissible torque, speed and angle must be checked together for the selected size and duty.

Replacement selection

How to prepare a cardan shaft enquiry

A clear drawing and operating requirement help us review a replacement without relying only on a model name.

1. Identify the connection

Send the assembly drawing, model marking and clear views of both ends. Include flange outside diameter, pilot diameter, bolt circle, hole count and hole diameter; for a gear coupling, include bore, keyway and shaft fit.

2. Define movement and space

State the flange-face installation length, the minimum and maximum lengths where relevant, required axial travel and working angle. Include space restrictions and whether the shaft is horizontal or vertical.

3. Describe the drive duty

Provide rated and peak torque if known, rotational speed, driven equipment, operating hours, reversing or impact loads, and the surrounding temperature and contamination conditions. If torque is unknown, send motor power, speed and drive ratios for review.

4. Confirm the purchasing scope

State the required quantity, whether you need a complete shaft or a defined replacement component, and any material, inspection, balancing, packing or documentation requirements.

Purchasing questions

Cardan shaft & coupling FAQ

What is a cardan shaft used for in a rolling mill?

A cardan shaft transmits torque between connected shafts that operate at an angle. In a rolling mill drive, the shaft must match the equipment interfaces and operating duty. A telescopic section is specified where the installation also requires axial movement.

What is the difference between SWC and SWP?

The supplied series references describe SWC as an integral-fork construction and SWP as a split-bearing-housing construction. Neither series can be selected from its name alone: torque, speed, working angle, bearing arrangement and interfaces must be checked for the intended duty.

Should I choose a telescopic or non-telescopic shaft?

Use a telescopic arrangement when axial movement or assembly travel is required. A non-telescopic arrangement has a fixed length and needs a compatible installation. Confirm the available space and required movement from the equipment drawing before choosing a configuration.

Can a drum gear coupling replace a universal drive shaft?

They use different mechanisms and are not automatically interchangeable. A gear coupling and a cross-shaft universal coupling have different displacement and interface requirements. Any substitution needs a review of the complete drive arrangement.

Can you check a replacement from photos or an existing model number?

Photos and model numbers help identify a configuration. We also need the installation and connection dimensions, working conditions and required quantity to check replacement suitability. An approved drawing is needed before the technical scope is confirmed.

What information is needed for a quotation?

Send the drawing or photos, exact model marking, rated and peak torque if available, speed, working angle, installation length, required axial travel, flange or bore details and quantity. Tell us which information is still unavailable so we can identify the next checks.

Drive shaft & coupling enquiries

Need a cardan shaft or replacement coupling?

Send photos or a drawing, the installation length and your operating data. We can check the replacement possibility based on your photos, drawings, part numbers, or working conditions.

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