Clutches, Brakes & Drive Components
Clutches, brakes, and drive components transfer torque and
prevent mechanical overload. These drive components include clutches and
brakes, splined hubs and shafts, and torque limiters. Clutches and
brakes transmit power to control starts and stops in mechanical power
transmission systems. Splined hubs and shafts are also used to transfer
torque. They consist of an involute splined shaft with grooves and teeth
that match a hub or coupling. As the shaft rotates, the locking grooves
move the hub or coupling and transmit power. Torque limiters are used
to automatically prevent mechanical overload. Also known as overload
clutches, these units come in two main forms. Friction-style slip
clutches allow the load to slip, while shear pins disconnect the load
through shearing and must be replaced after each overload.