Experimental and theoretical investigation about reaction moments in misaligned splined couplings

• Experimental splined coupling misalignment loads investigation.
• Test rig allowing angular misalignment tests.
• A novel numerical model to estimate misalignment load has been developed.
• The effect of tooth stiffness has been taken into account.
• The effect the value of angular misalignment has been taken into account.

This paper deals with the uneven loads generated when splined couplings work in misaligned conditions. These loads are balanced by the shafts bearings and they have to be taken into account by designers during the calculation of splined transmission systems. In particular an experimental investigation about tilting moment has been carried on by means of a dedicated test rig, in order to better understand this phenomenon. Experimental tests have been conducted in order to investigate the effect of misalignment angle, transmitted torque and tooth stiffness on the tilting moment. Also a numerical model has been developed in order to obtain a preliminary quick estimation of tilting moment values.