Tolerance sleeves can be used in a variety of ways as non-positive connection elements, and connections that have been created once can be released again in contrast to pressing or gluing. This also applies to torque transmission - very different from, for example, the wedge and Interference fit.
If I insert a feather key, a groove must be made both in the shaft and in the hub. That makes the production more expensive. But what makes the tolerance sleeves special is that they can apply a defined preload force in the radial direction. Thus, the tolerance sleeves transmit forces via a defined friction. We showed this with a special application on the Motek:
Tolerance sleeve as a shock absorber
We have installed a tolerance sleeve as an example as a fall arrester in a fall protection system, which is used by industrial climbers or roofers, among others. This is an economical alternative to traditional solutions. As a rule, a multi-layer sewn tape is installed as a fall arrester in a fall protection system. If it crashes, the seams tear open and slow the case down. Because the tape can not be reused afterwards, the operator has to swap the complete shock absorber. This is complicated and expensive. A manufacturer approached us with this problem.
We have now developed a much more efficient solution with a tolerance sleeve for this application. During the fall, this only gives way and then slows down the case via the friction. After a single use, the tolerance sleeve must also be changed with the associated built-in part, but this is much easier and cheaper. The cost of a tolerance sleeve move in this application just around the 1,20 Euro.
Other typical applications
Tolerance sleeves also solve challenges that arise in connection with misalignment, centering, vibrations, temperature expansion, excessive tolerances of the connection components or torque limitation. Simple applications without defined power transmission include the fastening of operating handles as well as armrests and spring tubes in seating furniture. If the defined power transmission plays a role, tolerance sleeves are also used in drive technology for pulleys, flywheels or gears installed.
They are also used in the automotive industry. For example, the tolerance sleeve in an electric motor centers a stator in the housing and fixes it in relation to the torque forces of the rotor. In general, both components are glued and reworked. With the tolerance sleeve, the stator only has to be pressed in. This ensures significantly faster installation and easier maintenance.
Resonance on these components
Tolerance sleeves are currently enjoying increasing popularity. Nevertheless, they are still completely unknown in many areas. To change that, our sales representatives actively approach customers. These include in particular manufacturers of electric motors. Here we mainly address the design departments and provide advice. We get the biggest response from our website when the designer is looking for a problem solution and then comes across our special component.
Calculate fit calculator easily online
When it comes to user advice, a challenge with tolerance sleeves is always the installation situation. On our website, we also provide you with a form to help you with the necessary calculations. And of course you can always contact us personally.