What is used to account for thermal expansion in mechanical systems?

The gap between shafts serves as a crucial mechanism for accounting for thermal expansion in mechanical systems. As temperatures increase, materials tend to expand, which can lead to misalignment or interference between components, potentially causing mechanical failure or reduced efficiency in the system.

By including a gap between shafts, designers allow for this thermal expansion to occur without causing undue stress on the components. The space accommodates the movement of parts as they elongate due to heat, ensuring that the system can operate smoothly across varying temperatures. This practice is particularly important in systems where shafts are connected or where components are subjected to significant temperature fluctuations.

In contrast, flexible couplings are designed mainly to absorb misalignment and vibrations rather than specifically to accommodate thermal expansion, while an adjustable sleeve might change the length of the connection but doesn't inherently provide space for expansion. Hydraulic dampers primarily serve to control motion and reduce oscillations rather than managing thermal effects. Thus, the gap directly addresses the issue of expansion and is an effective solution for maintaining mechanical integrity during temperature changes.