Clutch-brake systems rely on high-quality materials and precise engineering for optimal performance. They require technology that can withstand high temperatures, friction, and repetitive usage without compromising functionality. Additionally, these systems must maintain a delicate balance between responsiveness and durability.
At Force Control Industries, we take pride in being leaders in oil shear technology. With over five decades of experience, we have consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation in oil shear clutch-brake products. Our dedication to excellence has also allowed us to cater to diverse applications, including fiberglass insulation machinery, concrete block manufacturing equipment, and mechanical shearing equipment for plastics, composites and metals.
Understanding and applying the following principles can help engineers and operators design systems with reliable performance:
A key principle of clutch-brakes is precise operational control. This is achieved through hydraulic, pneumatic, or mechanical actuation, which regulates the clutch's movement and the brake's application. By controlling these actions, operators can accurately and efficiently manipulate the machinery’s speed, direction, and stopping. For critical positioning applications, Force Control has developed a closed-loop positioning control (CLPC) and proprietary optical encoder for its Posidyne® clutch-brake series. As with any clutch-brake, unit changes in temperature, cycle rate and other variables cause stopping to be shorter or longer, thereby undershooting or overshooting the desired position. The CLPC corrects this and aids the clutch-brake in stopping is the desired position every time.
The ability to engage and disengage power transmission between two rotating shafts is crucial in a clutch-brake. This allows for controlled rotating, stopping, and shifting in machinery. The clutch facilitates the smooth engagement of power transmission, while the brake provides stopping power when needed.
Clutch-brakes rely on frictional engagement to transmit torque between the rotating components. When the clutch is engaged, friction discs or plates come into contact. This allows power transfer between the driving and driven shafts. Similarly, when the brake is applied, friction materials come into contact, which generates resistance and slows down or stops the shaft’s motion. Force Control’s oil shear design eliminates friction material degradation as torque is transmitted through the shearing of automatic transmission fluid flowing through the stack.
The system generates heat during operation due to friction between the mating surfaces of the clutch and brake components. Effective heat dissipation and cooling mechanisms are essential to prevent overheating and premature wear. For example, cooling may be achieved through the circulation of air, water, or transmission fluid, ensuring consistent system performance. Force Control’s oil shear design boasts superior heat dissipation as heat is generated in the fluid and carried to the outer housing for cooling. Force Control also offers additional cooling options such as mechanical or electric fans, water heat exchangers, and forced lube cooling systems.
Over time, friction materials may wear down, and components may require lubrication or replacement. Regular maintenance and periodic adjustments are crucial to ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Proper adjustment of the clutch and brake mechanisms can also maintain their effectiveness and prevent issues such as slippage or premature engagement. Force Control eliminates the need for adjustment with its oil shear design and boasts 5-10x the service life of friction pads and drive plates. However, like all clutch-brakes on the market, discs and plates eventually need to be replaced once they reach the end of their service life.
Oil Shear Technology revolutionizes the performance and longevity of friction devices by harnessing the unique properties of transmission fluid. This involves using a friction device comprising multiple friction discs and drive plates, which can function as a brake or a clutch. Unlike traditional friction systems, this technology incorporates a proprietary re-circulation system within the hub, facilitating the flow of transmission fluid.
This technology relies on shearing transmission fluid between the friction surfaces and drive plates. As the friction stack is compressed through pressure mechanisms or springs, the transmission fluid undergoes shearing. This action enables efficient acceleration or deceleration of the system’s components while minimizing heat generation within the friction stack. In addition, the fluid film acts as a barrier that separates the friction disc from the drive plates.
Here are the advantages of Oil Shear Technology that make Force Control Industries’ products unrivaled in the industry:
One of the main benefits of Oil Shear Technology is its ability to provide constant performance over time. Our solutions provide consistent and predictable functioning by successfully regulating heat accumulation inside the friction stack. They also ensure smooth engagement and disengagement, contributing to stable and reliable application operations.
Oil Shear Technology significantly reduces the wear and tear typically associated with friction devices. Force Control Industries’ products experience minimal mechanical wear on friction surfaces and drive plates by employing transmission fluid to transmit torque. This innovative approach extends the lifespan of our products, reducing the frequency of maintenance and replacement cycles.
Oil Shear systems’ superior heat management capabilities enable our products to operate at higher thermal loads without compromising performance. Our engineers leverage advanced cooling techniques and materials to maximize thermal capacity, ensuring optimal operation even in fluctuating temperatures. This increased resilience translates to enhanced reliability and uptime for our customers.
Oil Shear technology streamlines maintenance procedures by minimizing the need for frequent adjustments and lubrication. With fewer moving parts experiencing mechanical wear, maintenance requirements are reduced, saving operators time and resources. Moreover, transmission fluid’s self-lubricating properties contribute to longer intervals between maintenance tasks.
Our Oil Shear products boost uptime and production by minimizing mechanical wear and providing excellent heat dissipation. They also maximize operating efficiency and eliminate costly downtime by reducing the need for frequent component replacement. This dependability is especially important in businesses where downtime can have serious financial consequences.
Oil Shear Technology’s versatility makes it suitable for an array of applications across various industries. Our products have been successfully deployed in material handling, manufacturing, postal services, and other sectors, showcasing their adaptability and reliability. Moreover, our engineering expertise allows us to tailor solutions to meet the unique requirements of each application. This extends to specialized sectors with unique operational demands, such as automotive assembly lines and steel processing plants.
We offer the following products that exemplify the benefits of Oil Shear Technology and cater to various industrial needs:
The Posidyne® Clutch-Brake is a versatile solution for heavy-duty, high-cycle applications across various industries. With a legacy dating back to 1969, thousands of Posidyne® units have been used worldwide, demonstrating their reliability in demanding environments. They excel in applications requiring precise control, such as mining, food processing, and packaging.
Here are the specifications of the Posidyne Clutch Brake: