GB646128A - Improvements in or relating to fluid actuated clutches - Google Patents

Abstract

646,128. Friction clutches. NATIONAL MACHINERY CO. July 15, 1946, No. 21104. Convention date, July 16, 1945. [Class 80(ii)] [Also in Group XXVI] In a fluid-operated friction clutch a rigid presser plate 26 or other clutch-engaging member is supported and centred by a flexible annular metal diaphragm 25, secured at its periphery to a clutch member 10 which also carries a rigid cover plate 20 defining with the plate 26 and diaphragm 25 a closed fluid space provided with means 23 for admitting pressure fluid thereto to move the plate 26 in the manner of a piston axially away from the plate 20. As shown, applied to a friction clutch 15, 18 of the single intermediate driven disc type mounted within the driving flywheel pulley 6 of a press, forging or other machine and operable to connect the pulley to its shaft 1 a cover plate 20 is secured to the axially outstanding rim 12 of webs 10 extending between the outer portions of the pulley spokes. A pack 25 of resilient steel or other annular laminae are clamped at their outer edges between the plate 20 and the member 12 and at their inner edges by a clamping ring 30 to a shoulder on the presser plate 26. The pack 25 is normally flat and engages the plates 26 and 20 as shown. Pressure fluid admitted to the space between the plates through a rotary connector 23 moves the presser plate against the elastic flexing of the laminae to engage the clutch. Centrifugal air cooling of the clutch is provided by ducts 13 and the radial spaces between the web 10, fixed friction disc 15 and ribs 14 supporting the disc. U.S.A. Specifications 2,241,241 and 2,241,242 are referred to.