What Is Clutch? Why Is It Used?

CLUTCH

Clutch is used to control Mechanical Power. Clutch is defined as “mechanical device which is used to connect or disconnect power from an engine to transmission system” by a will of the operator. By use of the clutch, we can run the only engine without driving a car, this is an advantage during starting and stopping of an engine and during changing of gear.

Here in figure simple single plate disk clutch with two flanges is shown. Let’s evaluate this number:

·         As shown in figure one flange is rigidly keyed to the driving shaft, and another collar is in splined connection with driven shaft.

·          In this clutch system actuating force is provided using spring which forces driven flange to move toward the driving flange. Torque is transmitted due to friction between the driving and turned flange. For this purpose, friction plate is fixed to the driving flange.

·         Now depends on some friction plate is used, clutches are classified into two type. First is SINGLE DISK CLUTCH and the second one is MULTIPLE DISK CLUTCH. Depends on the shape of friction plate clutches are classified as CONE CLUTCH, EXPANDING SHOE CLUTCH, and DISK CLUTCH.

·         Friction clutches provide smooth engagement. In the condition of overload, friction clutches slips momentarily which saves the machine or mechanism against failure.