Clutches

A mechanical device, Clutch transmits power from one module to other module. Brake is opposite module of clutch. To control power of motion clutch is used. For instance screw driver controls torque with the help of clutch. Clutches are equipped with two shafts in rotation movement. One of these two shafts is attached to motor or some power source unit. Other shaft supplies output power to carry out the work. For instance, one shaft of drilling machine is attached to motor and the other is attached to drill chuck. Clutch clump the two shafts so that they spin either at same speed or at different speeds or unlocked and slipping at different speeds.

Types of clutches

• General vehicle: They are based typically on friction discs. With the help of springs they are tightly packed together. The friction material in clutch may be either wet or dry. It is used widely in automobiles, trucks, and cars. The friction coefficient is increased by ceramic clutches. It is not preferable for passenger cars.
• Automotive power train: Clutch operates by left pedal with the aid of hydraulic oil or cable connection. They are very close to the pedal. The vibration effect, engine movement should be avoided. When there is no pressure on pedal, the clutch is in engaged position. When pressure is applied pedal gets disengaged from the clutch so gears can be shifted.
• Motor cycles: Motor cycles utilize wet clutch for riding. They are of plain steel and have friction plates. Lugs inside the friction plates clumps to engine crankshaft. Lugs outside the friction plates transmits input shaft. Clutch   is near left handle bar. Slipper clutches are used in racing motor cycles.
• Automobile non power train: Heat activated clutch is an engine cooling fan and are driven by belt. Here silicon fluid separates bimetallic spring valve in between driving and driving members.

Questions:

• What are the types of clutches?
• Give the applications of clutches.
• What is kick back clutch breaks?
• What is single revolution clutch?