![Going in opposite directions?](images/featuredproducts/opposite.jpg)
Going in opposite directions?
Bidirectional clutches for outdoor applications
Traditional outdoor power equipment is typically driven by an engine. Engines normally operate in one direction, and that is usually counterclockwise. Electromagnetic clutches are often used for several reasons in those applications and for many years they have been uni-directional clutches. So, what if my new application requires reverse operation as well? This is possible in hybrid drives where an electric motor might be coupled for reverse rotation.
Uni-directional clutches typically utilize leaf springs. This limits full torque when operating in the reverse direction of rotation because the leaf springs are then in compression instead of tension and they will want to buckle. Excess load can weaken & eventually break the springs.
For diesel engine applications, we have to consider reverse pulsations. In this case, we use bi-directional springs in the clutch to absorb those pulsations, whereas normal leaf springs would buckle.
For bi-directional clutches, the springs need to be designed differently or two sets of springs need to be used. Ogura MMC clutches are made to operate in either direction. They range in torque from 200 to 1500 lbft. A variety of bore sizes and pulley options are available. Most larger clutches operate via an inline drive and the clutch hub is fitted with a bolt pattern that matches common driveshaft couplings.
Benefits you will see when using an Ogura electromagnetic clutch:
- Reduced engine load during cold weather starts
- Increased operational life of pumps and other driven equipment
- Fuel and energy savings
- Safety and convenience (remote starting)
![Tired of Rusty Clutches](images/featuredproducts/rustyclutches.jpg)
Tired of Rusty Clutches?
Ogura utilizes special coatings for challenging outdoor environments.
Tough applications and environments can put a beating on motion control products. When moisture and corrosion inducing contaminants are present, you'll need a proven product. After manufacturing billions of automotive clutches, Ogura has perfected their e-coating process on steel components. Not just for automotive applications, this corrosion protection is also used on clutches and clutch brakes for pumps, compressors, ag and forestry equipment, hose reels, salt spreaders, construction equipment and more.
This e-coating protects the integrity of the product but it also looks good and prevents rust stains from running all over your equipment or shop floor. The even black coating is a recognizable symbol of Ogura's superior quality. It is used on the GT and MA series.
The MMC series used on larger hydraulic pump and jet spraying systems has a plating instead of the e-coating. This plating also has decades of field experience with salt water exposure.
The friction surfaces of the clutches are steel and are not coated, which provides optimal torque transfer capability. Because these surfaces are not coated, they can rust. A few burnishing cycles will remove this rust even on the tougher applications such as salt spreaders that sit unused for 6 months or more.
Ogura's GT and MA series of clutches and GT series of clutch brakes have the special e-coating. These clutches are often mounted on engine shafts or directly onto a mobile pump or compressor. They range in torque from around 58 lb-ft to 400 lb-ft torque. Larger MMC series clutches with corrosion resistant plating are rated for 200 to 1,500 lb-ft torque.
Benefits of using an Ogura mobile and general purpose clutches:
- Long life
- Safety and convenience with remote starting
- Fuel and energy savings
- Built for outdoor operation
- Many years of proven success
- Custom designs available based on minimum order quantities
- Reduced engine load on cold weather starts
- Increased operational life of driven equipment
- Lower fuel consumption
- Available with a soft start controller
- Slip detect capability
- Simple installation