A comprehensive range of torque limiters is now featured on the Techdrives website, www.techdrives.co.uk. Available from Lenze in the UK, the Techdrives range covers six basic types with more than 20 design variants and a torque range from 1 to 30,000Nm. The most commonly used models are friction, ball and roller designs. Friction torque limiters are often combined with chain sprockets. They are low in cost, simple to adjust and available in a wide range for shafts from 5 to 140mm. However they should not be used for frequent overloads except at low speeds, and require a moderately clean environment.
Ball and roller torque limiters can be considered together. They can run at higher speeds, are more accurate in the release torque, are maintenance free and suitable for oily environments. Overloads create axial movement which can readily be detected by proximity switch and used to stop the drive. Techdrives offer a low cost ball design plus a wide range of other models suiting different loads and mounting configurations. These torque limiters can be used to synchronise, detect overload without releasing, or give a fast and free release.
Also available are designs with pneumatic operation which allows adjustable release torques, for example at a high level for acceleration and a lower more sensitive level for running. Backlash free torque limiters for overload torques up to 750Nm suit precision machinery that needs accurate positioning. There is also a range of linear slide limiters that work in tension or compression, accepting high axial loads and triggering release at an adjustable point. These can be used in reciprocating mechanisms and torque arms.