Magnetic couplings from Miki Pulley are ideal for machine designs involving food, pharmaceutical and laboratory applications requiring clean, non-contact connection between motor and shafts.

The mechanically isolated magnetic coupling transmits torque through the air. This occurs through both input and output hubs of the coupling, which contain powerful rare-Earth neodymium magnets. These magnets create a magnetic field that transmits torque through plastic, glass, aluminum and other minimally ferrous materials without physical engagement.

The non-contact design is particularly important where cleanliness and motor isolation is required in the Source: Miki Pulleymixing system design. The coupling is clean and operates with no vibration, and there is no dust, debris or mechanical wear using this coupling compared to conventional couplings. Also important, this coupling has a “softer” start/stop function compared to conventional, general purpose couplings. In addition to mechanically isolating the connecting shafts and motor, the coupling also isolates thermal and electrical occurrences.

These magnetic couplings have an intended engineered torque limit at a specific air gap. The transmittable maximum torque may be adjusted by increasing/decreasing distance between coupling hubs. Depending on model, size and installed air-gap, the magnetic couplings’ maximum torque limit may be exceeded without mechanical damage. The hub simply slips to the next magnetic pole, without noise or mechanical wear.

While the magnetic field between the two hubs will transmit rotational force, it can also act as a torque limiter in an over-load event. The transmittable-torque and slip-torque may be metered by adjusting the distance between the hubs. After slipping, the hubs will re-engage each other and continue to transmit torque. This feature produces no mechanical wear on components.

These magnetic couplings are available in different configurations including shaft-to-shaft, parallel cylinder, perpendicular and stainless and plastic clad versions for food/washdown environments. Four different models are available in multiple sizes delivering torque of 2.66 in-lbs. to 1610 in-lbs. (0.3 Nm to 182 Nm) with a bore size range of 8 mm to 55 mm on butt shaft configurations.