The part of a flexible steel element coupling that is most subjected to wear is which component?

The component of a flexible steel element coupling that is most subjected to wear is the spring or the grid. This is because the spring or grid in these types of couplings is designed to absorb and dampen vibrations, accommodate misalignment, and handle the torque transmitted between the driving and driven shafts. Due to these functions, the spring or grid experiences continuous movement and force, which can lead to wear over time.

Additionally, the materials used in the springs or grids are specifically chosen for flexibility and resilience, but this also means they can wear out faster compared to other components like the hub, which primarily serves a structural purpose, or the bolts, which are designed to hold components together. The elastomer may also experience some wear, particularly in high-frequency applications, but it typically has a different wear mechanism and is designed to absorb some of that wear through its elastic properties. Understanding these roles helps clarify why the spring or grid is the most subject to wear.