FF Friction Torque Limiters

A PTO (Power Take-Off) shaft is a mechanical device used to transfer power from a tractor or other power source to an implement or machinery. PTO shafts are commonly used in agriculture, construction, and other industries where power needs to be transmitted between a power source and a driven component.

Within a PTO shaft system, a friction torque limiter is a safety feature designed to protect the machinery and the operator in case of sudden overloads or jamming. It serves as a mechanical fuse or clutch that disengages the power transmission when excessive torque is applied to the system. This helps prevent damage to the machinery, such as the tractor’s driveline or the implement being driven, and ensures the safety of the operator.

The friction torque limiter consists of two rotating elements: the input side, which is connected to the power source, and the output side, which is connected to the driven component. Between these two rotating elements, there is a friction surface that engages when torque is applied. This friction surface is typically made up of friction plates or pads.

Under normal operating conditions, the friction torque limiter allows power to be transmitted smoothly from the input side to the output side without slipping. However, if the torque exceeds a predetermined threshold, such as when the implement gets stuck or encounters a heavy load, the friction plates start to slip, disengaging the power transmission. This slipping action helps protect the machinery from damage by absorbing the excess torque and preventing it from being transferred further.

Once the torque returns to a safe level, the friction plates re-engage, and power transmission resumes. This automatic disengagement and re-engagement of the friction torque limiter happen rapidly and without the need for manual intervention, providing a safety mechanism for the PTO shaft system.

The friction torque limiter is an essential component in PTO shafts, ensuring the protection of the machinery, preventing costly repairs, and enhancing operator safety. It is important to properly maintain and periodically inspect the friction torque limiter to ensure its effectiveness and reliability.