Synchronous clutch couplings engage automatically when the driving machine overruns the speed of the driven machine. Synchronous clutch couplings also disengage again automatically in the same way and this happens at any speed within the machine's speed range. In principle, synchronous clutch couplings are shift couplings, equipped with a synchronizing mechanism that initiates the engaging process when the output speed is exceeded.
Applications
Synchronous clutch couplings are successfully used in the following sectors:
- Marine drive systems
- Combined propulsion systems, such as CODOG, COGOG, CODAG, CPGAG
- Industrial applications
- Generator drives, combined with synchronous condenser operation
- Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES)
- Connection between exhaust gas turbines and basic machinery in petrochemical plants and blast furnaces
- Automatic turning gear
Characteristics properties
- Synchronous clutch couplings engage automatically at the synchronizing speed and disengage automatically when there is negative torque.
- The couplings do not disengage in the event of temporary negative torque.
- The synchronizing mechanism is not involved in power transmission. The mechanism is simple, compact, and located within the coupling.
- The synchronizing mechanism has a relatively lightweight but very robust construction. High angular accelerations are therefore permitted during the engagement.
- Synchronous clutch couplings can be used for all torques and speeds for which conventional tooth couplings can be used.
- Thermal expansion and alignment errors of the coupled shafts can be absorbed by the couplings.
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