Posted to News on 24th Nov 2021, 00:00
2in1 combination coupling/clutch assemblies reduce cost, footprint and weight
Equipment and machinery OEMs worldwide are continually challenged to design cost-effective drivetrains that fit in ever-shrinking spaces. In the case of mobile equipment designers, reducing overall system weight is also a critically important consideration.
Sourcing individual drivetrain couplings and clutches can be time consuming as engineers hold interface clarification meetings with elastic coupling and clutch suppliers while also ensuring that quality, reliability, efficiency, vibration, footprint, weight and cost requirements are met.
The Stromag engineering team has designed a new line of unique, modular 2in1 coupling/clutch combination assemblies. The pre-engineered combinations feature an existing Stromag flexible coupling configured with an existing switchable clutch model for a compact, single-piece solution.
Depending on the application, various models from the performance-proven line up of Stromag couplings and clutches are combined for electric, hydraulic or pneumatic actuation. Suitable 2in1 solutions are available for nearly every combination between drive electric motors or diesel engines, and pumps, generators and belt drives. The power spectrum of the 2in1 clutch/coupling combinations ranges from a few hundred to several ten thousand Newton metres.
“Instead of designing ‘from scratch’ to meet specific customer requirements, the 2in1 modular ‘smart’ design concept allows our engineers to select from a carefully pre-configured family of paired flexible couplings and clutches. These compact pre-engineered combinations can then be quickly modified to meet particular customer needs.” said Ralph Breuer, director of engineering and product management at Stromag.
According to the company, this modular design approach can significantly reduce costs and lead times. OEMs can experience the cost-saving advantages while more easily meeting tighter delivery schedules. Plus, time-consuming meetings between elastic coupling and clutch suppliers to ensure component compatibility are no longer necessary.
