Centrifugal Clutch Assemblies

Centrifugal Clutch AssembliesCENTRIFUGAL 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
A pinion fixed on Drum Plate Rivets Center Bush Springs Clutch Shoe Damper Circlips
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
Centrifugal Clutch keeps the internal combustion engine from stalling when the blade or weapon is stopped abruptly. Centrifugal Clutch provides low load during starting of the vehicle / equipment. Centrifugal Clutch allows the engine to idle.