Automotive Clutch Assemblies

Automotive Clutch Assemblies

CENTRIFUGAL CLUTCH

A Centrifugal Clutch assembly includes a sleeve movable to selectively engage the clutch assembly independent of rotational speed of the clutch assembly. The Clutch assembly includes centrifugal Weights that move radially responsive to rotation of the clutch assembly. The Centrifugal weights move Pressure Plates between clamped and open positions in response to a desired rotational speed.

In other words, a centrifugal Clutch is a Clutch that operates automatically via rotational motion rather than lateral.

INVENTION

The Centrifugal Clutch assembly manufacturing started in 1940's for automobiles.

TECHNICAL

A centrifugal Clutch assembly consists of

Springs are used to hold the Clutch Shoe together on assembly and also for return of shoe after disengagement.

Dampers are used to avoid jerks and rubbing while clutch working. Clutch weights are made of ZINC casting or steel plates. Plates are used for complete assembly positioning.

MECHANISM

A centrifugal Clutch works through Centrifugal Force. The input of the Clutch is connected to the engine crankshaft while the output may drive a shaft, chain or belt. As the engine RPM increases, weighted arms in the clutch swing outwards and force the clutch to engage. The Most common types have friction pads or shoes radially mounted that engages the inside of the rim of housing. On the center shaft there are an assorted amount of extension springs, which connect to a clutch shoe. When the center shaft spins fast enough, the springs extend causing the clutch shoes to engage the friction face.

When the engine reaches a certain RPM, The Clutch activates, working almost like a continuously variable transmission. As the load increases the rpm drops, disengaging the clutch, letting the rpm rise again and re-engaging the clutch. If turned properly, the clutch will tend to keep the engine at or near the torque peak of the engine. These results in a fair bit of waste heat, but over a broad range of speeds it is much more useful than a direct drive in many applications.

Centrifugal Clutches are used in mopeds, mini bikes, chainsaws, lawnmowers etc.

TESTING

The Centrifugal Clutches are tested on Vehicle Conditions for engagement RPM as well as Disengagement RPM. These are tested for full Torque.

FEATURES