Article Contents:
Mechanically Controlled Couplings
A mechanically controlled coupling with two friction surfaces.
Pedal control of the clutch coupling used in motor vehicles. This is a coupling engaged by spring force. If the driver presses the pedal, disengagement occurs. Hydraulic cylinders are used to reduce the pedal force.
Disengaged (left) and engaged (right) states of a multi-plate coupling
We can also show the Conax coupling as an example of a mechanically controlled coupling
A mechanically controlled coupling (Conax coupling) has 6 friction elements shown with number 1. The 3 lever arms shown with number 5 also serve as springs.
A simple system for manually controlling mechanically controlled couplings
Simplicity of Mechanical Control
Mechanically controlled couplings work with lever and spring mechanisms, offering a simple and reliable structure.
Precision of Hydraulic Control
Hydraulically controlled couplings provide smooth, stepless engagement thanks to fluid pressure.
Speed of Pneumatic Control
Pneumatically controlled couplings, using compressed air, are preferred in applications requiring fast response times.
Hydraulically Controlled Couplings
Working principle of a hydraulically controlled coupling with a rotating piston type. Pressurized oil transferred to the rotating system from the shaft end enters the space shown with number 1 and pushes the ring-shaped piston, shown with number 2, in the axial direction, compressing the plate pack. When the oil pressure is removed, the springs shown with number 3 push the piston back, and disengagement occurs.
An example of a non-rotating-piston type hydraulically controlled multi-plate coupling.
An example of solutions that can be used to transfer pressurized oil to the shaft for rotating-piston type hydraulically controlled couplings. In the construction shown in the figure, three separate oil inlets are possible. Two of these are used to control two separate couplings, while the other is used to cool and lubricate the plate packs. O-rings are used for sealing in the system. Any leaking oil flows through the small hole shown in the figure into the enclosed section of the machine.
A rotating-piston type hydraulically controlled coupling used for the torque connection between a gear and shaft in a special gearbox.
A dual rotating-piston type hydraulically controlled coupling used for the torque connection between a gear and shaft in a special gearbox. Whichever coupling engages, its connected gear pair transmits the torque.
Pneumatically Controlled Couplings
Use of a pneumatically controlled coupling between a shaft and its V-belt pulley
A type of coupling engaged by compressed air. Made for large torques. It’s fitted to the shaft end. Instead of a pneumatic piston, a specially shaped reinforced elastomer bladder that performs the same job is used. Disengagement is carried out by springs, one of which is shown in the figure. It’s a rotating-piston type coupling. To the side, a perspective view of the coupling’s cross-section is given.
Similar to the previous coupling, but a pneumatically controlled coupling with the elastomer bladder placed on the outside (Airflex coupling)
Related Questions
These couplings work only with direct mechanical parts like levers and springs, without needing an additional fluid or electronic system. This structure, made of few parts, reduces the chance of failure and increases reliability.
Compressed air can move much faster than hydraulic fluid, and being compressible makes rapid engagement easier. This speed advantage makes the coupling preferred in applications that need to engage in a very short time.
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