Analysts estimate that the US’s industrial brakes and clutches market is worth $311.3 million in 2021. Your industrial clutch is a critical part of your operations. A faulty clutch can lead to costly downtime and put you at a competitive disadvantage.
As the economy continues its rebound, you want your business to be in the best possible position. So you need to know how to tell if your clutch needs repairing.
Here are some common signs that you need industrial clutch repairs. You can fix your faulty clutch before it turns into a bigger problem.
High-Pitched Squealing or Chirping Sounds
If you push down the clutch and you hear squealing or chirping, it could be time to replace your industrial clutch. Worn-out pilot bearings are often the cause of these noises.
A lack of lubricant can cause them also. You hear the bearings scraping against each other.
Continuing to use the clutch in either of these circumstances could lead to significant damage.
Loud Grinding Noises
A loud grinding noise when you push down the clutch could be the gears grinding against each other. Problems with the pressure plate or throw-out bearing can cause this sound. You’ll need to replace the entire clutch assembly before the damage spreads.
Frozen Clutch
If the clutch won’t engage or disengage, you may have a problem with clutch slipping. If you have a hydraulic clutch, air could be interfering with its operation. Clutch plates that are soaked in water can also freeze the clutch.
A faulty clutch mechanism can prevent it from working. A mechanic can help you diagnose which part of the clutch is causing the problem.
High Engine Revs but Slow Acceleration
High engine revs when you depress and fully engage the clutch are a sign of a slipping clutch. A damaged or rusted pressure plate is often the cause. The clutch linkage may also be the problem.
A worn friction plate gives less friction on the flywheel and pressure plate. As a result, the clutch has to work harder to transfer energy. That’s why you get higher engine revs but slower acceleration.
Loss of Power
Problems with the torque converter can cause a loss of power. This is because the torque converter converts horsepower to torque. So if the engine is running and you’re pumping the pedal, but you’re not getting anything out of it, you may need a new torque converter.
Clutch slippage can also cause a loss of power. In this case, it’s the master clutch assembly that isn’t transferring power to the torque converter. A clutch adjustment can often fix problems with the master clutch assembly.
Overheating
Too much or too little lubrication can cause your clutch to overheat. Overheating can also be a problem with the torque converter. In that case, low converter fluid pressure or air in the system could be the reason.
If you have a power take-off clutch (PTO), it will run hot when first installed. However, high-temperature measurements after 20 hours of use can indicate a problem.
Simplify Your Industrial Clutch Repairs
When you have a faulty clutch, you can make the repair process easier if you follow a few basic steps. First, keep the original product instructions and packaging. This ensures you’ll know what unit you have.
Second, if your application has changed from when you installed the original clutch, be sure you get a replacement with the right size and torque for the new job.
Finally, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully if you’re doing the clutch replacement yourself. Clutches have close tolerances. You’ll have more problems later if the installation isn’t exactly right.
Finding the Best Industrial Clutch
You’ll get your industrial clutch repairs off to a good start using a suitable unit from a quality manufacturer. Kor-Pak is your industrial brake and clutch specialist. We offer a wide range of sizes, torque, styles, and applications.
We’ll help you find what you need at a competitive price. Contact us today to ensure your equipment stays running at optimal efficiency.