Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A construction for transmitting rotational energy from a motor to a centrifuge rotor utilizes a flexible shaft having a long, thin central portion that terminates in larger diameter end portions or connectors. The lower connector is secured to the motor armature shaft and the upper connector is secured to a rotor adapter that replaceably mounts the rotor. The shaft is structured and positioned to achieve a self-balancing of the rotor for rotational speeds including at least the second critical speed by flexing in its central portion. In a preferred form, a spindle or inner sleeve secures the lower connector to the armature and extends upwardly to a point just below the upper connector. The spindle surrounds the flexible shaft with a first annular clearance sufficient to permit flexure of the shaft for the self-balancing during normal operation. An outer sleeve formed integrally with the rotor adapter surrounds the spindle with a second annular clearance and extends downwardly to a point just above the lower connector. The second annular clearance together with the overlapping lengths of the sleeve and the spindle limit the maximum lateral deflection of the rotor to prevent a permanent deformation of the shaft.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim