Description
The FMP Driveshaft steel friction torque limiter is a brand new, high-quality product backed by a one-year warranty. This versatile component is suitable for various industries, including hotels, garment shops, building material stores, manufacturing plants, machinery repair shops, food and beverage factories, farms, and restaurants. Weighing 10 kg and available in diameters of either 200 mm or 180 mm, it is designed to accommodate PTOs with power ratings ranging from 10 to 130 horsepower.
Advantages of a Friction Torque Limiter
Friction torque limiters for Power Take-Off (PTO) shafts in agricultural and industrial machinery provide several key benefits. These devices are essential in protecting machinery from torque overload by slipping when torque exceeds a predetermined level. Here are the main advantages:
- Equipment Protection: By limiting the maximum torque transmitted to the implement, friction torque limiters prevent mechanical overload, thereby avoiding severe damage to both the tractor and the attached implement.
- Improved Safety: These limiters reduce the risk of sudden mechanical failures, contributing to a safer operating environment, which is particularly important in high-powered agricultural settings.
- Ease of Maintenance: Friction torque limiters are straightforward to adjust for desired torque settings and generally have simple maintenance procedures, making them user-friendly.
- Versatility: Suitable for a variety of implements, these friction torque limiters are versatile components that excel in applications where variable loads can lead to torque spikes.
- Customizable Torque Settings: The torque limiter can be adjusted to meet specific task requirements, allowing for customization based on the implement used or the nature of the work.
- Extended Equipment Lifespan: By controlling excessive torque and preventing overload situations, these limiters help extend the lifespan of both the PTO shaft and the connected equipment.
Applications of a Friction Torque Limiter
Friction torque limiters are critical safety devices in agricultural machinery, designed to protect equipment by controlling the torque transmitted from the tractor to the implement. They are widely used across various types of farm equipment, effectively preventing damage from torque overload. Here are some key applications of friction torque limiters in agriculture:
- Rotary Cutters and Mowers: These limiters protect the gearboxes and blades of rotary cutters and mowers from damage when encountering obstacles such as rocks or dense brush.
- Balers: They ensure that balers, especially round balers, do not become overloaded while processing large quantities of material, which could lead to jams or mechanical failures.
- Tillage Equipment: Used in plows, harrows, and cultivators, friction torque limiters help prevent damage caused by striking hard objects or overly compacted soil.
- Seeders and Planters: These devices safeguard seeders and planters from damage due to clogs or rough terrain, ensuring consistent operation and accurate seed placement.
- Harvesting Equipment: In combines and forage harvesters, friction torque limiters protect the driveline from damage during intense harvesting operations by preventing overload.
- Feed Mixers and Manure Spreaders: They help prevent torque overload in the drivelines of feed mixers and manure spreaders, which can occur due to uneven loads or blockages.
By incorporating friction torque limiters, agricultural machinery can operate more safely and efficiently, extending the lifespan of the equipment.
Types of PTO Shaft Torque Limiters
Agricultural Power Take-Off (PTO) shaft torque limiters are essential safety devices that protect tractors and implements from damage due to torque overload. Various types of torque limiters are used in agricultural applications, each with its own mechanisms and benefits. Here’s an overview of the common types:
- Friction Torque Limiters: These limiters operate on the principle of friction between contact surfaces. When the preset torque limit is exceeded, the device slips, preventing excessive torque transfer. They are commonly found in mowers, balers, and other equipment where sudden torque spikes may occur, and they typically allow for adjustable torque settings.
- Shear Bolt Torque Limiters: This type uses a shear bolt that breaks when torque surpasses a specified threshold, disconnecting the drive between the tractor and the implement. Shear bolt limiters are simple and cost-effective, making them suitable for various implements. However, they require the replacement of the shear bolt after activation.
- Ratchet Torque Limiters: These limiters feature a ratcheting mechanism that permits rotation in one direction while locking or slipping in the opposite direction when overloaded. They are particularly useful in applications requiring unidirectional operation, such as augers.
- Overrunning Clutch Torque Limiters: These allow free rotation in one direction and lock in the opposite direction. They also limit torque by slipping or disengaging when overloaded. Overrunning clutch limiters are commonly used in mowers and rotary cutters, where it is essential for the implement to continue spinning freely after the tractor stops.
Each type of torque limiter serves a unique purpose in enhancing the safety and efficiency of agricultural machinery.
How Does a Friction Torque Limiter Work in Agriculture?
A friction torque limiter is an essential safety device used in agricultural machinery to prevent damage from torque overload in tractors and various implements. Here’s a breakdown of its operation:
- Torque Transmission: During normal operation, torque from the tractor’s PTO is transmitted through the friction plates of the limiter to the implement (such as a mower, baler, or plow). The friction generated by the compression springs between the plates facilitates this torque transfer.
- Setting the Torque Limit: The torque that can be transmitted is directly linked to the pressure applied by the springs on the friction plates. This pressure is adjustable, allowing the operator to define a specific torque limit.
- Activation During Overload: If the torque exceeds the set limit—due to an obstruction or overloading of the implement, for instance—the friction between the plates becomes inadequate for transmitting full torque. Consequently, the plates begin to slip relative to each other.
- Slippage and Protection: This slippage action effectively limits the torque transmitted to the implement, safeguarding both the tractor’s PTO system and the implement from potential damage caused by overloading. The limiter slips just enough to reduce the torque to a safe level.
- Automatic Resetting: Once the overload condition is resolved, the friction torque limiter automatically returns to normal operation, allowing it to transmit the regular amount of torque without requiring manual resetting.
By incorporating a friction torque limiter, agricultural equipment can operate more safely and efficiently, extending the lifespan of both the tractor and the attached implements.
How to Install a Friction Torque Limiter on Agricultural Equipment
Installing a friction torque limiter on agricultural equipment, especially on a Power Take-Off (PTO) shaft, is essential for protecting machinery from torque overload. Here’s a step-by-step guide for the installation process:
- Disconnect Power: Ensure the tractor or equipment is turned off and the PTO is disengaged. Remove the key from the ignition, and make sure the implement is properly supported and stable.
- Remove Existing Equipment: If you are replacing an old torque limiter or coupling, start by disconnecting it from the PTO shaft and the implement. This may require removing pins, bolts, or retaining rings.
- Prepare the Friction Torque Limiter: Unpack the new torque limiter and check for any shipping locks or braces that need to be removed. If necessary, apply lubricant to specific moving parts or bearings as indicated by the manufacturer.
- Install the Torque Limiter: Align the torque limiter with the PTO shaft. It should fit between the tractor’s PTO shaft and the implement’s drive shaft. Connect the limiter to the PTO shaft, ensuring that any splines or keys align correctly. Secure it using the provided pins, bolts, or other fasteners. Then, connect the opposite side of the torque limiter to the implement’s drive shaft in a similar manner.
- Adjust the Torque Settings: Set the torque limit according to the manufacturer’s specifications and your specific requirements. This typically involves adjusting the compression of the springs within the limiter.
- Test the Installation: After installation, manually rotate the PTO shaft to ensure the limiter moves freely and is properly aligned. Start the tractor and engage the PTO at a low speed to test its operation. Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations, which could indicate improper installation.
Following these steps will help ensure that your friction torque limiter is installed correctly, providing effective protection for your agricultural equipment.
Proper maintenance and care of a friction torque limiter on a Power Take-Off (PTO) shaft are essential for ensuring its effective operation and longevity. These devices play a crucial role in agricultural machinery by protecting equipment from torque overload through controlled slipping under excessive force. Here’s a comprehensive guide to maintaining your friction torque limiter:
- Regular Inspection: Frequently inspect the friction surfaces for signs of wear. Excessive wear can diminish the torque limiter’s effectiveness. Look for any damage or unusual wear patterns that may indicate misalignment or other issues.
- Lubrication: Some friction torque limiters require periodic lubrication of their bearings. Make sure to use the correct type of grease or lubricant as specified by the manufacturer.
- Adjustment and Calibration: Regularly check and adjust the torque settings according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Incorrect settings can lead to either premature slippage or inadequate protection. Use a torque wrench or appropriate tools for precise adjustments.
- Cleaning: Keep the torque limiter clean from dirt, grime, and crop residue. Accumulation of debris can hinder operation and contribute to premature wear. Additionally, protect the limiter from excessive moisture and corrosive substances to prevent rust and deterioration.
- Avoid Overloading: Do not intentionally exceed the PTO shaft’s capacity, as this can lead to excessive wear or failure. Ensure that the PTO shaft is properly engaged and aligned to minimize unnecessary stress on the torque limiter.
By following these maintenance practices, you can help ensure the reliability and longevity of your friction torque limiter, enhancing the overall performance of your agricultural equipment.
Why Choose FMP’s PTO Shaft Friction Torque Limiter?
FMP based in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, specializes in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of PTO shafts, agricultural gearboxes, PTO shaft accessories, and related products. With a dedicated team of over 100 employees and a facility covering more than 12,000 m², we take pride in our expertise, product quality, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Our annual revenue reaches 60 million RMB (approximately 9 million USD) and continues to grow each year. Our products are well-regarded by customers across the globe, including regions such as Europe, America, Asia, Australia, and North America. We are recognized as a leading OEM supplier for numerous agricultural implement manufacturers in the domestic market.
At FMP, we adhere to key principles: prioritizing quality, ensuring timely delivery, and maintaining competitive pricing. We hold certifications such as CE, TS/16949, and ISO9001, supported by systematic manufacturing equipment and a dedicated quality control team to guarantee our products’ excellence and reliability. We warmly invite you to visit us and explore opportunities for mutually beneficial, long-term partnerships.
Currently, our company exports products to valued customers in over 50 countries across five continents. With a commitment to offering best-in-class brands, FMP aims to expand its presence globally in its respective fields.
Author: CX