About FASTEC Engage
Versatile Two Stage Soft Start Clutch
Fastec Engage is a “two stage” “soft start” adjustable clutch designed to soft start high inertia loads. The clutch was designed by Fastec Ltd to allow a motor to develop speed before any load is applied. At a predetermined speed the clutch commences a controlled engagement of the load using (adjustable) slippage between the clutch plates to provide a “soft start”. When both the drive plate and driven plate are rotating at the same speed the clutch is “locked” so that the load can be fully transferred. The clutch disengages when the motor stops. Fastec Engage can be used as a component in a mechanical drive system and can be used in conjunction with Fastec Drive
Wherever Extra Mechanical Energy is Needed
Fastec Engage is a low cost, light weight, “soft start” clutch with many industrial applications. For example, it could improve the productivity of small renewable energy schemes, such as small hydro, solar and wind generation. Typically while such generators may be capable of running a (say) 2.2 kW motor, they may be unable to start it because of their inability to supply the required in-rush current. However if Fastec Engage is used, the motor is able to develop rotational speed before the load is engaged, so that in-rush current is reduced. The load is then able to be brought up to speed using controlled slippage to achieve a “soft start” which reduces the impact of engagement.
How FASTEC Engage Works
Fastec Engage is lightweight, and adjustable allowing both the speed of engagement to be changed, and also the time (number of cycles) over which the load is brought to speed after the clutch engages.
- Fastec Engage only engages the load after the motor has achieved a minimum (adjustable) required rotational speed
- As the clutch commences to engage with the load it allows controlled (and adjustable) slippage between the clutch plates until both the drive and driven plates are rotating at the same speed. Motor speed is maintained
- When both of the clutch plates are rotating at the same speed they are “locked” together so that the load can be transferred
- When the motor stops the clutch disengages
- The clutch is compact and can be easily fitted
The Application
Fastec Engage can be customised for different motor shaft sizes and motor speeds. There are currently 2 models of Fastec Engage, a 2-pole model which is lighter in weight and designed for a higher rotational speed before the clutch engages, and a 4-pole model with a slower speed of engagement. Fastec Engage can replace other heavier and more expensive “soft start” couplings such as magnetic hysteresis clutches and hydraulic couplings as well as electronic soft starters. Examples of applications are to reduce the starting shear on a motor shaft keyway, and with windmills to engage or disengage the load at a pre-determined speed.