Which component is used to absorb endfloat and misalignment while transmitting torque?

• A. Rigid shaft
• B. Belt
• C. Flexible coupling
• D. Pin coupling

Answer: (C)

Flexible couplings provide a compliant link between shafts, allowing a bit of axial play (endfloat) and angular or parallel misalignment to be absorbed while still transmitting torque. The elastic or flexing element in a flexible coupling absorbs the movement and stresses that would otherwise be transferred to bearings and gears, reducing vibration and wear. Rigid shafts transfer any misalignment directly into the system, causing stress and potential damage. A belt drive can handle some misalignment through tension and pulley geometry, but it doesn’t inherently absorb endfloat. A pin coupling is essentially rigid and offers little accommodation for axial movement or misalignment. So, the component that best absorbs endfloat and misalignment while transmitting torque is the flexible coupling.