Which Torque Limiter Is Right For My Drive?
Every drive will have different requirements, power/speed/operational time/maintenance, etc., as well as budget cost. When considering your drive protection and the selection of the correct Torque Limiter, it is vital to take everything into account. The following brief summary is just a guide, so please consult Howdon with your specific enquiry.
Friction Slip Clutches
Compact device limiting torque by means of spring-loaded friction plates suitable for chain drives. Does not disconnect the drive, subject to heat and wear on excessive slip. Plates can freeze when the clutch is unused for prolonged time denying drive protection.
Wedgegard Shear Pin Clutches
Improved design and a technical advance on round shear pins, a wide range of torques adjustable by accurate easy fit pins, completely disconnects drive, requires a manual reset, gives failsafe low-cost protection fitting to an output shaft.
Designs for shaft couplings, chain and pulley drives and universal joint shafts. Units are compact for high torques. Requires spare wedgepins but little or no maintenance.
Ball/Clicker Detent Clutches
Drive through spring-loaded balls or ratchet via flanges giving disconnect when they ride or roll out of a detent location. A wide range of models has been produced for use with chain or couplings. Designs are available which are manually re-set or automatic re-engaged. Regular maintenance is required to prevent wear and ensure drive protection.
Modular Ball Clutches
Developed from the ball detent clutch, individual modules are fitted between flanges and, depending on the space available, handle high torque applications. Manual reset. Regular maintenance is required and is essential to ensure drive protection.
Hydraulic Clutches
Designs are available requiring high ‘locked-in’ hydraulic pressure to drive when excessive load is produced the pressure is released by shearing giving complete disconnect. High torque applications with compact size, manual reset requires skilled maintenance and special equipment.
Electric Clutches
Operate friction plates via electric actuation and transmit torque mechanically with springs to hold plates apart on release. Fitted to input shafts, slip takes place on start up and if drive torque exceeds clutch capacity. May fail to protect reduction gearing and drive shafts.
