Jon R. Mancuso - Erie PA Thomas G. Fromknecht - Erie PA Robert E. White - Conneaut OH
Assignee:
Zurn Industries, Inc. - Erie PA
International Classification:
F16D 702 F16D 1106
US Classification:
192 56R
Abstract:
A torque overload release clutch is disclosed made up of a drive member and a driven member adapted to be connected between a power source and a load to transmit a torsional force and to release at a predetermined torque. The clutch release mechanism is made up of a plurality of spaced thermoplastic modules supported in the driven member and a plurality of spaced recesses in the drive member. The modules are each made up of a sleeve and a pin. The sleeve is supported on the driven member and it receives the pin. The pin has a first follower and a second follower member on it. The first follower engages the side of the recesses which acts as a cam and urges the pin toward the sleeve in proportion to the magnitude of the torsional force. The second follower engages a cam surface on the sleeve resisting the force that urges the pin toward the sleeve. When the torque reaches the predetermined magnitude, the second cam follower overcomes resistance of the sleeve and enter the sleeve which has an internal recess and thereby holds the pin from returning thereby releasing the coupling.