TVET COLLEGE SUPPORT

CLUTCHES

 

Centrifugal clutches
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A centrifugal clutch is a mechanical device which is used on driven rotary equipment. Most commonly used with a combustion engine, the clutch can be used to automatically transmit the torque from the drive to the driven equipment giving a “soft start” with no load engagement. By using this type of clutch between the drive and the driven equipment the speed at which the mechanical driven shaft engages can be controlled. As the engine speed is increased to or above the set engagement speed of the centrifugal clutch the mechanical drive will become engaged. This enables the operator to run the engine at a designated idling speed without driving the equipment, thus allowing the engine to reach its optimal torque before experiencing load.
 
Advantage
  • Simple and inexpensive and need little maintenance.
  • The centrifugal clutch is automatic any kind of control mechanism is not necessary.
  • They help to prevent the engine from stalling.
  • The engagement speed can precisely control by selecting spring.
Disadvantage
  • Loss of power due to friction and slipping.
  • This type of clutch not appropriate for the high amount of torque, the shoes will slip at the heavy loaded condition.
  • They engage at full or near-full power, shoes get heated very quickly may cause overheating.
Centrifugal Clutch Applications
  • Motorcycles and scooters
  • Vibratory plate compactors and rollers
  • Rammers
  • Compressor/vacuum/fan drives
  • Trowel and concrete finishers
  • Compact road/street cleaners
  • Transport refrigeration units
  • Mobile water pumps
  • Go-karts
  • Woodchippers/stump grinders/milling cutters