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Industrial Clutch

Jul 11, 23 • NewsComments Off on Industrial Clutch

The clutch is an essential mechanical device that acts as a link in systems that require the selective transmission of rotational motion from one component to another. This type of mechanism is most commonly found in motor vehicles where they act as the linkage between the transmission and the engine.

While automotive clutches are certainly the most known, they are not the only type of clutch used for specific purposes. Industrial clutches are quite common for industrial applications, serving the fundamental purpose of connecting and disconnecting power transmission for the transfer of rotational force.

However, in many ways, industrial clutches are different from their automotive counterparts, such as in their robust construction and ability to handle massive torque loads. Learn more about industrial clutches as we answer the questions “What is an industrial clutch?” and “How does an industrial clutch work?” below.

 

What is an Industrial Clutch?

An industrial clutch is a type of clutch used in various industrial applications, such as operating heavy machinery and facilitating the efficient transfer of power. Through their different functionalities, industrial clutches allow the machine or equipment to enjoy smoother start-ups, efficient speed changes, overload protection and synchronization with other machinery components.

The main difference between an industrial clutch and other clutch types is their design specifications. Generally, industrial clutches are designed to handle high torque loads, frequent engagements and demanding operating conditions within industrial settings. Given their intended application, they often feature robust construction using high-quality materials and come with advanced design features that enable them to withstand the harsh performance requirements of heavy machinery.

 

How Does An Industrial Clutch Work?

Industrial clutches typically consist of different industrial clutch parts, including the flywheel, pressure plate, clutch disc, clutch release bearing, clutch fork and actuation mechanisms. Within the mechanism itself, the flywheel directly connects to the drive shaft while the pressure plate and clutch disc are located between the flywheel and the driven shaft. 

Within these mechanisms, one member is attached to the power unit (typically the engine), which then drives the other member to provide output power. In this case, when the clutch is engaged, the clutch disc presses against the flywheel and pressure plate to facilitate the transfer of power. Meanwhile, when the clutch is disengaged, it separates the entire mechanism from the flywheel and pressure plate to interrupt the transmission of power. 

 

What are the Different Types of Industrial Clutches?

There are several types of industrial clutches, including the following:

  • Friction Clutch: The most common type; they consist of friction discs and pressure plates that push the discs together and allow the transmission of torque.
  • Electromagnetic Clutch: Uses magnetic forces to engage and disengage the clutch.
  • Hydraulic Clutches: Engages and disengages the clutch through the action of hydraulic pressure.
  • Pneumatic Clutches: Compressed air generates the needed pressure to engage and disengage the clutch.
  • Centrifugal Clutches: This type of industrial clutch operates based on centrifugal force.
  • Dog Clutches: Made up of teeth on both driving and driven components that mesh together when the clutch is engaged.
  • Cone Clutches: As the name suggests, this type of industrial clutch has a conical shape, which allows for gradual engagement and disengagement.
  • Tooth Clutches: Similar to dog clutches, tooth clutches have teeth on both driving and driven components, offering more precise timing and control.

Maintain Operational Efficiency with K&L Clutch

The industrial clutch performs a crucial role in allowing the seamless transfer of rotational force from one component to another within an equipment’s mechanism. Because of these integral functions, your machine’s industrial clutch must be maintained in excellent condition to ensure operational efficiency.

K&L Clutch is your partner in securing replacement parts for your machines. We supply industrial clutches and other mechanical components to keep your machines running and prevent significant operational downtime. We supply parts manufactured by some of the industry’s most notable brands and provide repair and installation services for all the parts we sell. For more assistance, or to learn more information, you are welcome to contact us here.

A Selection Guide for Power Take-off Units

May 1, 23 • NewsComments Off on A Selection Guide for Power Take-off Units

Power take offA power take-off is a gadget that transfers mechanical energy to another piece of equipment, allowing machines to function without needing an additional engine. Power take-offs are utilized in several applications but are commonly used in the agricultural and industrial sectors. From water pumps to farming tractors, a reliable power take-off kit can be installed in a wide range of equipment, allowing for improved performance and enhanced energy conservation.

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Difference Between Wet Brakes vs. Dry Brakes

Feb 9, 23 • Brakes, Industrial Mechanical PartsComments Off on Difference Between Wet Brakes vs. Dry Brakes

wet brakes aka oil cooling brakes

From a physics perspective, brakes on automobiles are built to convert kinetic energy (your moving vehicle) into heat energy (friction). In a car, for example, the car then stops because of the energy conversion.

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Coolers and Heat Exchangers

Nov 15, 22 • Heat ExchangersComments Off on Coolers and Heat Exchangers

car engineYour vehicle’s engines are subjected to extreme heat during use. To prevent your engine from overheating and to mitigate wear and tear, heat exchanger parts like an engine oil cooler can redirect the heat by circulating hot oil. When using quality parts, you can see the improvement in your engine’s reliability as your engine oil cooler is durable enough to take on the extreme heat your engine releases.

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Car Axles

Oct 21, 22 • NewsComments Off on Car Axles

vintage car axleCar axles allow you to maximize your engine’s power and easily control your vehicle’s direction. K&L Clutch offers three brands of car axles that deliver the quality and durability that industrial drivers, heavy machinery operators and those with high-powered cars expect from their vehicles.

 

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Braking Systems

Sep 22, 22 • Brakes, NewsComments Off on Braking Systems

brake

 

Heavy equipment requires high-performance braking systems that withstand extreme thermal loads. But, more importantly, they should keep the brakes running cool. Three types of braking systems can be used depending on the specific industrial machine. 

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Top 3 Industrial Applications of Marine Clutches

Oct 8, 20 • Clutches, Marine, NewsComments Off on Top 3 Industrial Applications of Marine Clutches

Marine Clutches

Have you ever asked yourself how marine crafts survive long cruises across oceans and seas? The marine environment is hazardous. All processes to go through smoothly, ensure that safety goes first by having quality clutches from one of the best manufacturing companies installed in your marine vessels and anchor spots.

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Top 5 Benefits of Industrial Air Clutches

Sep 21, 20 • Air Clutches, Brakes, NewsComments Off on Top 5 Benefits of Industrial Air Clutches

Twin Disc Clutch

An industrial air clutch is a plate connected to a drive shaft of power machinery, and when engaged, it uses compressed air to slow down or stop the engine by disengaging it from what is driven. The industrial air clutch uses air instead of hydraulics or centrifugal forces to stop heavy machines.

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Why Choose Allison Transmission Torque Converters

Jul 31, 20 • Torque Converters, TransmissionComments Off on Why Choose Allison Transmission Torque Converters

K&L Clutch is proud to carry Allison Transmission products, parts, and service options. But, what makes Allison Transmission such a quality, reliable brand?

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Common Signs of Torque Converter Problems

Dec 5, 19 • TransmissionComments Off on Common Signs of Torque Converter Problems

The torque converter is the part of your machine that controls how much fluid is passed on to the transmission. It also allows your engine to continue to run while completely stopped. If this specific component of the machine happens to malfunction, it can cause strange behavior such as slipping. The difficult part is trying to diagnose what the exact cause of the torque converter malfunctioning is. There can be many causes for problems with torque converters.

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