A recent torque limiter report stated the importance of higher-quality torque limiters. “Where operator safety is the primary concern, higher standards are vital, and experienced suppliers’ sound advice is recommended.”
Yes, there is a cost to putting the best limiter (also called an overload clutch) into your systems. But, the benefits outweigh the initial cost.
Critical Nature of a Torque Limiter
Any time torque transmits from one machine component to another, there’s a chance a jam could happen. A jam can prevent the rotation of a drive component.
When working with high-torque, heavy-duty equipment, everyone’s goal should be same. Balance efficient production with protection of both human and machine. Even momentary overload can cause injury to people and damage equipment beyond repair.
A torque limiter is a mechanical protection. It’s a device that engages in the event of an overload, and the load separates from the drive. The limiters that have rotating balls or rollers you can augment with a limit switch. The switch can override the motor drive system and activate an emergency stop.
Keeps Overload in Check for Heavy Equipment
A precise torque limiter keeps overload in check when it comes to high horsepower drives.
High horsepower drives mean larger gearboxes and motors. As the size increases, the power density can become disproportionate between driveling components.
The overload clutch needs to remain compact but also be robust enough to handle the larger load.
This component is small but essential. It is often out-sized as drive requirements extend into the thousands of horsepower.
The majority of torque overload release devices have low release values. These values are often too low for heavy equipment.
Heavy equipment requires torque levels beyond 10 KN. Such machines include gas turbines and industrial crushers. It also includes oversized recycling equipment and windmill test stands.
Extends the Life of Your Drive System
When a drive system overloads, a quality limiter immediately disengages the drive system. This protects the machinery. The system resets, and operation resumes.
This protection extends the life of the entire drive system. It also reduces downtime caused by equipment damage and the resulting repair time.
Greater Accuracy of Torque Limitation
A quality overload clutch means more precise torque limitation and increased up time. Inaccurate torque limitation can mean unplanned downtime.
A target accuracy range for limiters is +/-5 percent. Lower quality limiters range from about +/-15-20 percent accuracy.
Longer Life Even at High Speeds
You may pay a higher price for a better limiter. But, the investment will pay for itself later. For example, torque limiters like the Autogard Series 400 have a reverse-to-reset design. There are two sets of balls on concentric pitch circles.
The Autogard and similar models provide a longer life than lesser quality limiters. This makes it practical for high-speed applications while keeping the automatic resetting feature.
Contact Us for a Quote
We carry several brands and versions of torque limiters. And we have experience in all types of heavy equipment.
If you have questions about a limiter, please contact us for a consultation. We can find the model best fits your needs.