In-line Pneumatic Clutches
Last Updated: April 1, 2025
Description
In-line pneumatic clutches are devices that transfer power from one part of a power transmission driveline to another using compressed air or other gas as an operating fluid. They engage to transfer power from an engine to down-train devices such as a transmission and drive wheels, and disengage to stop the power transfer while allowing the engine to continue turning.
Working Principle
In-line pneumatic clutches operate by using compressed air to engage and disengage the clutch mechanism. When engaged, the compressed air forces the clutch plates together, allowing power to be transmitted from the engine to the driveline. When disengaged, the air pressure is released, separating the clutch plates and stopping the power transfer. This mechanism is useful because it allows for smooth and efficient power transfer without generating heat during extended periods of engagement, thanks to their superior thermal capacity and the ability to direct air across the clutch plates for cooling .
Applications
In-line pneumatic clutches are often used in applications requiring precise torque control and reduced braking distances. They are commonly found in larger, heavier vehicles like buses, where they are combined with pneumatic brakes. Additionally, they are used in systems requiring web tension control, automation, or robotics, as well as in conveyor drives and pump motor drives .
Advantages over other Pneumatic Clutches
Pneumatic clutches offer several advantages over other types of clutches. They provide more accurate torque control compared to mechanical clutches and transmit higher torques than similar-sized electric or mechanical clutches. They are also lightweight and require relatively low maintenance, making them an efficient choice for many applications .
Limitations
One limitation of pneumatic clutches is that they do not achieve the same torque levels as hydraulic clutches. Additionally, while they are efficient, they may not be suitable for all applications, particularly those requiring the highest torque levels or those operating in environments where compressed air is not readily available .
Considerations
When considering in-line pneumatic clutches, it is important to evaluate initial costs, operating expenses, and maintenance requirements. Pneumatic clutches are generally simple and efficient, which can lead to lower operating expenses and maintenance costs. However, the initial cost may vary depending on the specific features and capacities required for the application. Durability and accuracy are also key considerations, as these factors can impact the overall performance and lifespan of the clutch system .
from Mach III Clutch, Inc.
Operation. Friction type heavy duty clutch mechanism engages with air pressure, spring released when air is exhausted. Torque is linear in response to air pressure applied. Mounting. Through/Mid Shaft or End of Shaft. Heavy duty clutch mechanism slides on shaft and is fixed with set screws and a... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Pneumatic Pressure: 80
- Torque: 0.0 to 276.7
- Spring Assistance: Spring Return/Disengage
from Force Control Industries, Inc.
Eliminate Constant Repair in Severe Duty Applications. The Posidyne Clutch is currently available in two styles, 1. the foot mounted unit which is basically the Posidyne clutch brake with just the clutch stack; and 2. the PTO designed to engage a diesel or gasoline engine to the load. The standard... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Rotary Speed: 3600
- Torque: 43.2 to 6583.3
- Pneumatic Pressure: 80
from Montalvo Corporation
Montalvo's C-Series clutches use the same compact design as the C-Series brakes. Applications include narrow web and light to medium-duty. They are available in several versions. Modular design and interchangeable parts make C-Series clutches easy to set up and maintain. [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Rotary Speed: 5500 to 7000
- Torque: 66.0 to 100.0
- Pneumatic Pressure: 75
from Andantex USA, Inc.
Overview. These clutches are used wherever different sections of a machine needs to be first disengaged from the drive train then re-engaged while maintaining the same phase or angular relationship which existed prior to disengagement. They are often used in a line-shaft, between printing units on... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Power: 110
- Torque: 222.0
- Rotary Speed: 2700
from WPT Power Corporation
The WPT Low Inertia (LI) High Torque Clutch is a pneumatic design for high energy, high cycle applications requiring end-shaft mounting. The High Torque version of the LI Clutch provides maximum torque in limited space. Our LI High Torque Clutch is time tested and used extensively throughout the... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Rotary Speed: 2140
- Torque: 2166.7
- Pneumatic Pressure: 100
from Mach III Clutch, Inc.
Operation. Friction type heavy duty clutch mechanism engages with air pressure, spring released when air is exhausted. Torque is linear in response to air pressure applied. Mounting. Set screws and customer supplied key connect the heavy duty clutch mechanism to one shaft and the coupling hub to a... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Pneumatic Pressure: 80
- Torque: 0.0 to 276.7
- Spring Assistance: Spring Return/Disengage
from WPT Power Corporation
The WPT Power Grip Clutch is designed to accommodate in-line and shaft-to-shaft power transmission applications. With available sizes ranging from 8 ” to 60 ”, WPT ’s air-actuated dry-clutch is recognized as the industry standard. Common applications include but are not limited to;... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Rotary Speed: 2100
- Torque: 6535.0
- Pneumatic Pressure: 100
from Mach III Clutch, Inc.
Operation. Friction clutch mechanism engages with air pressure, spring released when air is exhausted. Torque is linear in response to air pressure applied. Mounting. Clutch mechanisms can be mounted Through/Mid Shaft or End of Shaft. Clutch mechanism slides on shaft and is fixed with set screws and... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Pneumatic Pressure: 80
- Torque: 0.0 to 46.2
- Spring Assistance: Spring Return/Disengage
from WPT Power Corporation
The WPT Power Grip PO Clutch is designed to accommodate in-line power transmission applications. With available sizes ranging from 14 ” to 36 ”, WPT ’s air-actuated dry-clutch is recognized as the industry standard. Common applications include but are not limited to; Mining, Oil... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Rotary Speed: 2100
- Torque: 312.5
- Pneumatic Pressure: 130
from Mach III Clutch, Inc.
Operation. Friction clutch coupling engages with air pressure, spring released when air is exhausted. Torque is linear in response to air pressure applied. Mounting. Set screws and customer supplied key connect the clutch mechanism to one shaft and the coupling hub to a second, fully supported... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Pneumatic Pressure: 80
- Torque: 0.0 to 46.2
- Spring Assistance: Spring Return/Disengage
from Mach III Clutch, Inc.
Operation. Friction type heavy duty clutch is engaged with spring pressure. A fixed amount of torque is transmitted. To release clutch, air pressure is applied to overcome the spring pressure. Mounting. End of Shaft. Heavy duty clutch slides on shaft and is fixed with set screws and a customer... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Rotary Speed: 1750
- Torque: 0.0 to 241.8
- Pneumatic Pressure: 90
from Mach III Clutch, Inc.
Operation. Industrial friction clutch is engaged with spring pressure. A fixed amount of torque is transmitted. To release clutch, air pressure is applied to overcome the spring pressure. Mounting. End of Shaft. Spring Engaged friction clutch slides on shaft and is fixed with set screws and a... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Rotary Speed: 1750
- Torque: 0.0 to 42.2
- Pneumatic Pressure: 90
from Mach III Clutch, Inc.
Operation. Friction clutch coupling engages with air pressure, spring released when air is exhausted. Torque is linear in response to air pressure applied. Mounting. Set screws and customer supplied key connect the clutch mechanism to one shaft and the coupling hub to a second, fully supported... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Pneumatic Pressure: 80
- Torque: 0.0 to 46.2
- Spring Assistance: Spring Return/Disengage
from Mach III Clutch, Inc.
Operation. Friction type heavy duty clutch engages with air pressure, spring released when air is exhausted. Torque is linear in response to air pressure applied. Mounting. Set screws and customer supplied key connect the heavy duty clutch mechanism to one shaft and the coupling hub to a fully... [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Pneumatic Pressure: 80
- Torque: 0.0 to 276.7
- Spring Assistance: Spring Return/Disengage
from Mach III Clutch, Inc.
Operation. Friction clutch engages with air pressure, spring released when air is exhausted. Torque is linear response to air pressure applied. Mounting. Mounts between a c-face motor and gear reducer. Not suitable for belt drive (pulley output) applications. Consult engineering for options. [See More]
- Shaft: In-line
- Pneumatic Pressure: 80
- Torque: 0.0 to 47.8
- Spring Assistance: Spring Return/Disengage