The engine rotating shaft is horizontal, the travel pinion spin axis is also horizontal. The trouble is these axes are not aligned, they will be parallel to one another. The Cardan Shaft redirects the drive shaft to the travel pinion without changing the way of rotation.
Trusted in industry, cardan shafts have proven practical in applications where space is limited-as well while in scenarios where an element in the device train (e.g. paper roll) might need to always be actuated (dynamically positioned) to another position when the machines are not operating. The universal joint allows for limited motion without uncoupling. To make 
sure ample lubrication circulation, which in turn helps prevent the universal joints from seizing, cardan shafts are usually installed with an angle from 4 to 6 6 degrees at the universal joints. Encounter, though, has demonstrated that the angle between the shafts of the driver and influenced unit should be kept to the very least, preferably significantly less than 4.36 mrads (0.25 degrees). Ideally, the angles between the driver and motivated shafts and the cardan shaft, demonstrated as β1 and β2 in Fig. 1, would be equal. Geometrically, this might mean zero angularity existing between the driver and driven device: Basically, the shafts of the driver and influenced machine will be parallel to one another.
Usually it consists of a tubular shaft, two sets of Universal Joints and glove system – ferrule stepper, amongst others. It is a element of the transmission program, its function is usually to redirect the engine turning activity, after moving through the gearbox and the travel to the wheel, going through the ‘planetary and satellite’ system etc.
Our specialised personnel will gladly help you find the proper universal joint for your application or will develop a suitable solution according to your unique requirements.
Cardan shaft, also known as cardinal shaft, is an element of torque transmission.