Bellows couplings for robotics

Ruland bellows couplings are designed for high-torque and zero-backlash applications, which are essential for robots requiring precision motion control.

Marlborough, Massachusetts, December 2024. Ruland bellows couplings are ideal for precision motion in robotic applications due to their zero-backlash design, high torque and torsional stiffness, and various styles that ensure accurate movement and smooth operation. They are commonly used in industrial, medical, and autonomous robotic systems requiring high speed and accuracy.


Ruland bellows couplings are designed for high-torque and zero-backlash applications, which are essential for robots requiring precision motion control. These couplings are lightweight, have low inertia, and can accommodate all forms of misalignment, making them highly versatile for different robotic applications.

Designers benefit from using Ruland bellows couplings because they have reduced vibrations at speeds up to 10,000 rpm due to a balanced design. They are also available in standard lengths for increased torsional stiffness and extended lengths for increased misalignment capabilities. These options allow designers to use the bellows coupling that best fits their application.

Ruland bellows couplings are available in clamp-style designs, with bore sizes ranging from 1/8 in (3 mm) to 1-3/4 in (45 mm). Hubs are manufactured from meticulously selected 2024 T-351 aluminum bar stock for high strength and low inertia. Bellows are made from stainless steel, giving the coupling flexibility under torsional loads. Each coupling undergoes a proprietary assembly process to ensure it does not introduce misalignment, causing high bearing loads into the system.

Ruland carefully manufactures bellows couplings in its ISO 9001:2015 certified advanced manufacturing facility in Marlborough, Massachusetts, using strict controls and proprietary processes. They comply with RoHS3, REACH, and Conflict Minerals, ensuring they meet global environmental sustainability and safety standards.

Summary: Why Ruland bellows couplings?
• Ideal for precise motion in robotic systems, offering high torque and torsional stiffness
• Reduced vibration at speeds up to 10,000 rpm due to a balanced design
• Long lengths for increased misalignment and standard lengths for maximum torsional stiffness
• Carefully made in Ruland's Marlborough, Massachusetts advanced manufacturing facility
• Available for immediate delivery
• RoHS3, REACH, and Conflict Minerals compliant

About Ruland:
Ruland Manufacturing Co., Inc. is a privately owned family company founded in 1937. Ruland has carefully and responsibly manufactured high performing shaft collars, rigid couplings, and motion control couplings for the past 40 years. Ruland's product line was recently expanded to include a variety of machine components from select manufacturers that align with Ruland's performance and quality standards.

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