Positive Clutch – Types, Function, Parts, Application, Diagram

A positive clutch is a mechanical device used to transmit torque between two rotating components. Learn about the function, applications, advantages, and disadvantages of a positive clutch.

What Is Positive Clutch?

A positive clutch is used when a positive (no slip) drive is required. These clutches transmit power from the drive shaft to the powered shaft by interlocking the jaw or teeth. They are used much less than friction clutches.

The Jaw Clutch consists of two parts; One of them is permanently attached to the driver shaft. The other half is movable and connected to the operated shaft. It can slide axially onto the shaft independently, but cannot bend due to the key to the wing. They can transmit power in both directions; They are used when it is not necessary to attach or separate under load.

The spiral jaw clutch (Figure 2) is used when it only needs to transmit power in one direction; It can be left-handed or right-handed. They are used when it is necessary to engage and isolate while in motion.

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Parts Of Positive Clutch

• Jaws – These are the two rotating components that transmit torque through the clutch. They are typically made of a hard, durable material such as steel or bronze.

• Spring – This is the flexible element that connects the two jaws and allows them to rotate relative to each other. It is typically made of a strong, flexible material such as steel or a high-strength polymer.

• Shafts – These are the rotational components that the jaws are mounted on. They are typically made of a strong, durable material such as steel or aluminum.

• Housing – This is the enclosure that contains the jaws, springs, and shafts. It is typically made of a strong, durable material such as cast iron or steel.

• Bearings – These are mechanical components that allow the shafts to rotate smoothly and reduce friction. They are typically made of a hard, durable material such as steel or ceramic.

• Seals – These are mechanical components that prevent dirt, debris, and other contaminants from entering the housing and damaging the internal components. They are typically made of a strong, durable material such as rubber or a high-strength polymer.

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Types Of Positive Clutch

Spiral Jaw Clutch

A spiral jaw clutch is a mechanical device that is used to transmit torque between two shafts or other rotating components. It consists of a pair of jaws that are mounted on separate rotational shafts and connected by a spiral-shaped spring or another flexible element. When one of the jaws is rotated, it causes the spring to wind up or unwind, which in turn causes the other jaw to rotate.

The amount of torque that can be transmitted through a spiral jaw clutch is determined by the strength of the spring and the size of the jaws. These types of clutches are often used in applications where a precise amount of torque needs to be transmitted, such as in the drivetrain of a vehicle or a machine tool.

Square Jaw Clutch

A square jaw clutch is a type of mechanical device that is used to transmit torque between two rotating components. It consists of a pair of jaws that are mounted on separate rotational shafts and are connected by a spring or other flexible element. The jaws are shaped like a square, with each side of the square having a different degree of hardness or friction. When one of the jaws is rotated, it causes the spring to wind up or unwind, which in turn causes the other jaw to rotate.

The amount of torque that can be transmitted through a square jaw clutch is determined by the strength of the spring and the size of the jaws, as well as the degree of hardness or friction of the jaw surfaces. These types of clutches are often used in applications where a precise amount of torque needs to be transmitted, such as in the drivetrain of a vehicle or a machine tool.-

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Working Of Positive Clutch

The primary function of positive clutch is to transmit torque between two rotating components. It does this by mechanically locking the two components together, allowing them to rotate as a single unit.

Positive clutches are typically used in applications where a high amount of torque needs to be transmitted with little to no slip. They are often used in the drivetrain of vehicles, such as automobiles and motorcycles, as well as in industrial machinery.

In a vehicle, a positive clutch is typically used to transmit torque from the engine to the transmission, allowing the vehicle to move forward or backward. In industrial machinery, a positive clutch may be used to transmit torque between various components in the machine, such as a motor and a pump, or a drive shaft and a gear.

Overall, the function of a positive clutch is to provide a reliable and efficient means of transmitting torque between rotating components in a variety of different applications.

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Advantages Of Positive Clutch

1. Positive clutches are more reliable and have a longer lifespan than other types of clutches
2. They provide more precise and accurate control over the transmission of power
3. They allow for smoother engagement and disengagement of the gears
4. They are less prone to slipping, which can improve the overall efficiency of the vehicle
5. They can handle higher torque loads than other types of clutches
6. They are less affected by wear and tear, which can reduce maintenance costs over time

Disadvantages Of Positive Clutch

1. Positive clutches are generally more expensive than other types of clutches
2. They are typically heavier, which can affect the overall weight balance of the vehicle
3. They require more maintenance and regular servicing
4. They are more difficult to repair or replace than other types of clutches
5. They have more complex internal mechanisms, which can make them less user-friendly
6. They require special tools and equipment for installation and maintenance

Application of Positive Clutch

1. Industrial Machinery – Positive clutches are used in a wide range of industrial machinery, such as conveyor belts, cranes and hoists, to transmit power and enable the circulation of heavy loads.
2. Power Tools – Positive clutches are used in many power devices, such as drills, saws, and sanders, to transmit power and enable rotation of the tool’s bit or blade.
3. Aerospace – Positive clutches are used in aircraft control systems to transmit power and enable the speed of flight control.
4. Marine – Positive clutches are used in the propulsion system of ships and boats to transmit power from engines to propellers.
5. Agricultural Machinery – Positive clutches are used in a variety of agricultural machinery, such as tractors and combine harvesters, to transmit power and enable the movement of equipment.

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