A strip of flexible spring steel wraps around the teeth of both hubs to absorb sharp, momentary load increases that can come from motor startups, emergency braking, or sudden impact with hard objects. When the shock load hits, the strip of spring steel (known as a grid) flexes to spread out the load. After the load passes, the grid straightens back out. They're commonly found in wire drawing and cutting machines, pulverizers, and mixers. Compared to spider couplings, jaw couplings, and other flexible shaft couplings, these handle higher torque while taking up less space. All have keyed bores to work with keyed shafts, which transmit higher torque with less slippage than round shafts.

A complete coupling consists of two hubs as well as a grid and cover assembly (all sold separately). The grid and cover assembly includes a spring steel grid, aluminum cover, rubber seals, and grease for lubrication. When ordering, please choose components that have the same manufacturer series number, otherwise the grid will not fit.

Attach these traditional collars anywhere along a shaft when other components are already installed or you can't access the ends. Their set screw digs into the shaft for a tight, permanent hold, but one that leaves a gouge. For maximum holding power, make sure the set screw is harder than the shaft.