Types and functions of clutches on board

Coupling is a device used to connect two shafts at both ends with the aim of transmitting mechanical power. Couplings usually do not allow separation between the two shafts when operating, but now there are clutches that have limited torque so they can slip or break when the torque limit is passed.

Coupling two rotating shafts

The main purpose of the clutch is to unite the two rotating parts. With careful selection, installation and maintenance, clutch performance can be maximal, power loss can be minimum, and maintenance costs can be minimized.

Benefits of clutch

Couplings are used in machining for various purposes :

To connect two separate shaft units, such as a motor shaft with wheels or a generator shaft with an engine. The clutch is able to separate and connect the two shafts for the need for component repair and replacement.
To get mechanical flexibility, especially on two shafts that are not in one axis.
To reduce the shock load ( shock load ) from one shaft to another.
To avoid overwork.
To reduce the vibration characteristics of the two rotating shafts.

So many types of clutches have been developed by experts, here are the types of clutches commonly used for the maritime industry :

1. Rigid clutch.

Rigid couplings are coupling units that hold two types of shafts that do not allow changes in the position of the two shafts or are released, intentional or unintentional, when operating. Rigid couplings are the right choice when both axes want to be connected with a stable and precise positioning. This clutch is the clutch with the highest service life as long as the torque, RPM and load limits of the shaft and clutch are not exceeded.

2. Friction Clutch.

Friction clutch is the type of clutch that is most commonly understood by many people. This coupling connects two shafts by using a plate that has a certain coefficient of friction.

3. Centrifugal Couplings.

You surely know automatic motorbikes such as Mio, Scoopy, Skydrive, their transmission systems use centrifugal clutch systems. This clutch uses centrifugal force to be able to automatically engage the clutch when the engine speed rises to a certain value.

Cone Clutch.

As the name implies, this type of clutch is cone- shaped on the friction part. This type is still included in the type of friction clutch .

Wet and Dry Couplings.

Wet clutch means the clutch is submerged in lubricating oil which functions as a coolant, maintaining cleanliness on the surface of the clutch, producing smoother performance, and being more durable. This type of clutch is very commonly used on motorbikes.

While the understanding of dry coupling as the name implies this clutch is not submerged in oil, so the transmission power generated is higher, and dust from friction between the clutch plates will not pollute the engine oil.

Clutch Belt.

This type of clutch uses a belt as a transmission medium between the two shafts. Usually this type of clutch uses a pulley tension mechanism to regulate the belt tension so it does not slip or vice versa, the belt is too tense.

Hydraulic Couplings (Fluid Couplings).

This type of clutch does not use the friction plane like a clutch in general. This clutch uses a hydrodynamic system. The drive shaft is connected to a hydraulic pump, while the driven shaft is connected to a hydraulic motor. These pumps and hydraulic motors use certain hydraulic oil working media which are capable of working at high pressure and temperature.

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