What is a Slip Clutch?

A slip clutch is a mechanical device used to control torque and prevent mechanical overload. This function is especially important in applications such as rewinding webs, load simulation, torque limiting, and operations requiring soft starts. Placid Industries manufactures magnetic particle slip clutches that are engineered for precision torque control.

This type of slip clutch is unique because the output shaft or disk does not physically contact the rotor. Instead, a small gap is filled with Placid Industries’ proprietary blend of fine, dry magnetic powder. This powder remains free flowing until a magnetic field is applied by the stationary coil. Once energized, the powder particles align along the magnetic field lines and transmit torque, enabling a smooth, controlled slip.

Other types of electromagnetic clutches can’t control torque as precisely. They rely on spring force or magnetic force to engage, which doesn’t allow for a slow, adjustable transfer of torque. These types often have response times under one second, making controlled slipping difficult. Friction clutches, on the other hand, wear down over time and can create foreign object debris (FOD)—a risk in sensitive environments

Where do you use a Slip Clutch?

Placid Industries’ Magnetic Particle Slip Clutches are used in many industrial applications that require adjustable torque and controlled tension. Common uses include rewinding rolls of film, fabric, and wire; simulating loads; limiting torque for bottle capping; and delivering soft starts.

 

Rewinding (Film, Fabric, Wire, Etc.)

Magnetic Particle Clutches are often placed on the rolls being “re-wound”. The magnetic particle clutch controls the winding force of the roll, preventing uneven rolling, tearing, and worse yet, machine downtime.

 

 

Load Simulation

When used for load simulation, a Placid Industries slip clutch is mounted to the output shaft and delivers controlled resistance to simulate the behavior of real-world loads. This is a common practice for testing power tools, motors, and other equipment.

 

 

Bottle Capping

In bottle capping applications, magnetic particle slip clutches limit the torque applied during the capping process. Without a slip clutch, capping machines often overtighten, leading to cracked or damaged bottles and inconsistent sealing.

 

Soft Starts
Magnetic Particle Clutches also provide a soft start feature. They work similarly as they would in a bottle capping application. The slip clutch acts to limit the amount of torque being applied to a conveyor belt, web, etc. This prevents products from falling off an assembly line and reduces product damage during manufacturing.

 

What is a Placid Industries’ slip clutch capable of?

Placid Industries magnetic particle slip clutches offer a wide torque range from as low as 0.1 oz.- in. to as high as 300 lb.-ft. The torque is smooth and repeatable, thereby offering accurate control independent of the speed.

Placid Industries offers constant current power supplies, follower-arm potentiometers, ultrasonic sensors, and signal isolation cards to use with the magnetic particle clutch. These accessories ensure that your motion control is accurate and precise.

Looking for more information about using a slip clutch in your application? Speak with a technical expert today! Our team of experts is ready to answer your questions and help you find the best product for your application. We take pride in shipping most customer orders within 48 hours. Want to learn more about our company?