A safety clutch is a useful feature on industrial handwheels. Handwheels, of course, are devices used to control machines. Some of them have spokes or vertical knobs, whereas others consist entirely of a round wheel similar to an automotive steering wheel. Regardless, turning a handwheel will engage the machine to which it’s connected.
Overview of Safety Clutches
Safety clutches are devices that prevent excessive force from being transmitted from handwheels to machines. They allow handwheels to remain stationary while the shaft turns freely. You can find safety clutches on many different types of handwheels, including those made of plastic, stainless steel, zinc and steel.
How Safety Clutches Work
There are different types of safety clutches, but most of them require a pull action to engage. Pulling the handwheel will engage the safety clutch. Serrations inside the clutch will connect to the shaft. Once engaged, the shaft will still turn, but you won’t be able to turn the handwheel.
Safety clutches can also be installed in a reverse position, meaning they require a pushing action. Rather than pulling the handwheel to engage the safety clutch, you’ll need to push it. Pushing, however, increases the risk of accidental engagement. Therefore, most workers prefer safety clutches with a pulling action.
Reasons to Choose a Handwheel With a Safety Clutch
Handwheels with a safety clutch offer several advantages. for starters, they can protect machines from damage. Handwheels transfer force to machines. Excessive force can result in mechanical overload that can damage machines and their components. With a safety clutch, though, you can limit the amount of force transferred to machines.
Safety clutches can also reduce machinery maintenance costs. Excessive wear and tear can result in more frequent, as well as costly, maintenance. Safety clutches minimize wear and tear, which translates into cheaper and less frequent maintenance.
Another reason to choose a handwheel with a safety clutch is worker safety. With a safety clutch, you can stop the handwheel from moving. If there’s an accident or machinery failure, engaging the safety clutch will stop the handwheel from moving.
Safety clutches don’t interfere with the ergonomics of handwheels. They are typically hidden, so they won’t obstruct or interfere with your ability to turn handwheels. Instead, safety clutches can protect your machines from damage and lower the risk of bodily injury.
In Conclusion
When shopping for industrial handwheels, you may come across safety clutches. They are safety devices that allow handwheels to remain stationary while the shaft moves freely.