One-way clutch design and how it works

Clutches are typically special machine elements:

When rotating in one direction, there is no contact between the inner and outer rings, i.e. the one-way clutch is free to rotate.

When turning in the other direction, the inner and outer rings are in close contact, and the one-way clutch can transmit high torques.

Therefore, as shown in the figure, when the inner ring of the one-way clutch is stationary, the outer ring rotates clockwise (idling operation). However, if the outer ring rotates in the opposite direction and the inner and outer rings are in close contact, the inner ring will be driven to rotate with the outer ring (synchronized operation).

One-way clutches can be used as:

Backstop

Overrunning clutch

Positioning clutch

One-way clutches perform these functions automatically in many machines. Unlike couplings and brakes, one-way clutches do not require mechanical or hydraulic control systems, such as in shift clutches and brakes.

The one-way clutch consists of an outer ring, an inner ring and a wedge block set between the inner ring and the outer ring. It can be a wedge block brake or a roller brake. One-way clutches can be divided into two types:

One-way clutch with own bearing

One-way clutch without bearing

For one-way clutches, it is very important that the centers of the inner and outer rings are aligned. If a one-way clutch without bearing is selected, the customer must ensure that the center of the inner and outer rings is aligned during installation.

RlNGSPANN one-way clutches are the most basic design elements in machine tools, automobiles and even aviation. As an automatic drive element, the one-way clutch has absolute advantages over conventional solutions:

Safety

economy

high degree of automation

With more than 25 years of experience in the development, production and sales of one-way clutches, Dingsen Transmission now offers a wide variety of one-way clutch products. Subsidiaries and sales partners all over the world provide the best possible personalised on-site service.