Crank handles are available in many different styles. Fold-away crank handles, for instance, are characterized by a collapsible design to save space. When you are finished using them, you can fold them down. Stainless steel crank handles, on the other hand, feature a stainless steel construction. They are strong, durable and highly resistant to corrosion.
There are also balanced crank handles. Like most crank handles, balanced crank handles are used to convert rotational motion into circular or reciprocating motion. They feature a balanced weight, however, that distinguishes them from all other types of crank handles.
Overview of Balanced Crank Handles
Balanced crank handles are characterized by an evenly distributed weight. They typically feature a long arm that connects to a machinery shaft on one end. At the opposite end of the long arm is a perpendicular handle.
You can use them to control or adjust machinery. As you turn a balanced crank handle, it will engage the shaft to which it’s connected. Balanced crank handles simply have a more even weight distribution than their counterparts.
Benefits of Balanced Crank Handles
Why should you choose a balanced crank handle over a traditional crank handle exactly? They offer several advantages, one of which is resistance to vibrations. Machines often vibrate. They have motors or other moving parts that, during use, create strong vibrations. Balanced crank handles, though, are better protected from vibrations than traditional crank handles thanks to their evenly distributed weight.
Balanced crank handles are long-lasting. They don’t succumb to the same level of premature wear and tear as other, non-balanced crank handles. Balanced crank handles resist vibrations to provide a smoother operation, which in turn protects them from premature wear and tear.
Balanced crank handles are ergonomic. Most people will agree that they are more comfortable to use than traditional crank handles. With their evenly distributed weight, balanced crank handles are easy to turn.
Another reason to choose a balanced crank handle over a traditional crank handle is accuracy. They can provide a higher level of accuracy than traditional crank handles. Balanced crank handles resist vibrations to maximize stability and ergonomics, which allows for greater accuracy when performing machinery adjustments.
How Balanced Crank Handles Work
The secret to balanced crank handles’ evenly distributed weight can be attributed to a counterweight. The counterweight typically consists of a piece or block of heavy material, such as steel. It’s embedded opposite of the crank arm, allowing it to offset forces during turning. Thanks to this counterweight, there’s less vibrations and steadier motion when turning a balanced crank handle.