by what is a torque limiter?
overload clutchs are mechanical devices used to limit the maximum amount of torque that can be delivered or absorbed by a driven shaft. They are designed to slip or release at a preset torque level in order to prevent damage from over-torquing.
How do torque limiter work?
overload clutchs work through the use of specialized friction surfaces that slip when a predefined torque threshold is reached. When torque is initially applied, the friction surfaces grip and rotate together to transmit torque normally. However, once the maximum torque setting is exceeded, the surfaces begin to slip relative to each other instead of transmitting additional Torque Limiter.
There are a few different designs that accomplish this slippage mechanism:
clutch-style overload clutchs
similar to an automotive clutch, these use friction discs or plates that are squeezed together by spring pressure. Above the torque limit, the plates begin to slip against each other instead of further tightening the grip.
Shear pin overload clutchs
these have a pin or rod that shears off at a calculated torque load. Once sheared, torque can no longer be transmitted through the pin.
Friction ring overload clutchs
a belleville spring applies pressure between an outer ring and inner hub. Above the limit, the ring slips against the hub to prevent over-torquing.
Hydraulic overload clutchs
fluid is squeezed through calibrated clearance between a male and female component. Pressure rises with torque until it triggers hydraulic slippage at the set point.
Applications of overload clutchs
to their ability to prevent damage from over-torque situations, limiters find wide application in many industries:
packaging machinery
overload clutchs are used on filling machines, cappers, sealers and other packaging equipment to protect downline components if a jam occurs.
Lifting and hoiting
limiters help winches and hoists safely cut power if their rated capacity is exceeded, preventing injuries or dropped loads.
Metalworking
in situations like screw machines, press brakes or other metal forming equipment, limiters safeguard gears and tooling from fasteners that bind up.
Automotive manufacturing
robotic welding, assembly lines and other factory motor applications utilize limiters for safety around moving machine parts.
Woodworking and plastic machinery
saws, sanders, injection molding units and more rely on limiters to prevent damage to cutting tools from snags in material.
Aviation and aerospace
limiters are important for engine testing and assembly applications to avoid potentially catastrophic over-torquing failures.
Benefits of torque limiting
using torque limiting technology provides important benefits across many industries:
equipment protection
by preventing excessive torque loads, limiters can shield downstream gears, motors and mechanical components from damage.
increased uptime
downtime for repairs is reduced since the limiter absorbs over-torquing incidents rather than requiring fix/replacement of other parts.
Safety compliance
limiters satisfy important safety regulations and standards by controlling torque outputs around moving or potentially hazardous machinery.
Process improvement
by automatically shedding surplus torque, limiters allow processes to continue reliably without interruption even if upstream disturbances occur.
Cost savings
avoiding costly repairs or replacing gears/motors/tooling means limiters deliver a quick return on investment from prevented damage incidents.
Choosing the right overload clutch
when selecting the appropriate limiter for an application, key considerations include:
– required torque limit level
– input and output shaft sizes/types
– environmental conditions
– space envelope and footprint
– interface mounting options
– dynamic or static operating conditions
– lifecycle/durability needs
working with an experienced limiter supplier is recommended to analyze usage parameters and recommend the design that best fits operational needs. Proper specification and installation will ensure peak performance and long service life.
Discover the Report for More Insights, Tailored to Your Language.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public Source, Desk Research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author - Money Singh
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. LinkedIn Profile
