Centrifugal clutch

                                  Centrifugal clutch


 
Introduction:
 
•In friction clutches, spring force alone is used

•As Crank shaft rotates, the weights fly off and develop centrifugal force

•This centrifugal force is utilized in engaging clutch

•Centrifugal force (fc) increases as square of the speed (N),

                                        fc α N2 

Construction:

•Weights A rotates with engine speed

•The plates C and D are parallel,

•Spring E is between plates C and D

•Plate D is mounted on clutch shaft

•Plate C slides on clutch shaft

•Flywheel F is mounted on engine shaft 

•Spring G is between plate D and  flywheel 

•Weights A rotates with engine speed 

•When the engine speed increases

 weights fly off and centrifugal force develop

 •Due to Centrifugal force  the bell crank lever moves and pushes plate C 

 •The plate C compresses the spring E, thereby pushes the clutch plate D 

 

  Clutch engage 

  •The clutch plate D moves forward and contacts with flywheel F against the spring force G

 

  Clutch disengage 

  •The spring G pushes clutch plate D back at low speeds  about 500rpm 

  •Stop H limits the movement of the weight A

 

  Advantages 

  •Does not require clutch pedal for operating the clutch 

  •Vehicle can be stopped in gear 

  •Vehicle can be started in any gear by pressing the accelerator pedal

 

  Disadvantages 

  •Does not permit clutch to engage at low speeds (500rpm) 

  •Not suitable for all vehicles

 

  Used in 

  •RILEY cars (foreign cars) 

  •LUNA, BAJAJ sunny TVS Scooty etc.,( two wheelers)