Variable Speed Clutches
Philadelphia Gear’s Synchrotorque® line of hydroviscous clutches operates on the
principle of shearing an oil film to transmit torque. This hydroviscous effect transmits
torque in proportion to a variable clamping force. For unrestrained loads, the higher
the clamping force, the faster the output speed. The input drive plates function as
the driver. The output friction discs are faced with a suitably grooved resilient
material and act as a driven member.
Precisely controlled clamping pressure between input drive plates
and output friction discs allows virtually infinite speed control
right up to 100% of input speed. This simple phenomenon, based
on established hydrodynamic bearing principles, is the basis
for controlled torque transmission in the Synchrotorque line of
hydroviscous clutches.
- Works for 100 HP to 20,000 HP applications
- Range of sizes for a variety of mounting configurations
- Appropriate for adverse environments
- Output speed equals 100% of input speed
- No fixed-slip losses
- Can transmit torque in either direction
- Can remain running while disconnected from load
- Maximizes torque transfer in compact space
- Protects drivetrain from excessive loads with automatic torque limiting feature
- Clutch can be integrated with gearbox in one housing; unique Gear-Pak®
solution simplifies alignment, reduces number of components, improves
efficiency in smaller footprint, and has lower initial cost