Clutch and brakes are those components that form an indispensable part of the motion control equipments. While brakes are those devices that are used in case of applying a force against the friction of the road, slowing or stopping the motion of a machine or vehicle, or alternatively a device to restrain it from starting to move again, clutches are those mechanism that have two rotating shafts which can be used to engage or disengage as per their transmitting rotation.

This article deals with some of the most common tips and guidance that will help one to pick the best clutch or brake instead of waiting to learn them when a component fails. If you ask some junior engineer to pick out the electro-magnetic friction clutch for a new application, you ill surely meet a face with a wired expression. Why wait for this, become your own expert as far as selection of a clutch and brake is concerned. It is very simple indeed!

It is a fortunate enough fact that there are only a few steps that when followed properly will help you in selecting the right clutches for your vehicle or any other mechanical component. Following are some of the parameters that one should keep in mind before buying a clutch.

Design and Configurations

These play a key role in determining the kind of clutch that one needs to have for their specific application. The response time (how long will the clutch take to bring the load to a certain speed) of a clutch is an important determiner. Various methods like cycle of operation, graph torque and coil current can help in the optimization of the response time.

Coil Current

Coil Current that part of brakes and clutches that helps in the start of the building up of the current. They are known for their spiking voltage and places the highest demand on the clutch. This is an important facet to decode upon the clutch to purchase as it makes it easier for the clutch to work within its rated limits.

Time of Pulling In

The total time incorporated by the clutch in order to close the air gap between the armature and rotor is the pulling in time. It is denoted as t1

Time to Speed and Respond

Occurring at t2 this is that function of clutches which enables the load to rotate at nearly the speed of the rotor. This happens after the coil current and torque are made to rise continuously to reach the full torque. They are applicable in various motors as well.

Time of Decay

This is the last nut important consideration that one should keep in mind while investing in a clutch. Decay time signifies the time when the moment current is switched off and the torque is required to reach zero even after coil current is turned off.