Lowell’s New Mechanical Ratchet Clutches
Worcester, MA – Mechanical ratchet clutches from Lowell Corporation offer several options in controlling motion. These include one-way left, one-way right, freewheeling, and fully-locked.
Among the applications for Lowell ratchet clutches are manual backstopping for conveyor belts, overrunning capabilities for dual motor set-ups, and indexing for machinery. Each standard Lowell clutch body contains only a gear, two spring-loaded pawls, and a control lever. This design simplicity enhances durability and reduces the cost to buy and operate. Moving the control lever to the side engages a pawl and permits driving the gear in one direction only. Moving the bar to the other side pushes the gear in the opposite direction.
In addition to clockwise and counterclockwise ratcheting action, these units feature a neutral position, selected by centering the control lever. Shifting into neutral engages the gear with both pawls and prevents the gear from turning.
Customization Options
Furthermore, for even greater versatility, Lowell can supply dual control levers. When positioned to each side, the levers engage both pawls to provide a neutral, free-running function. You can actuate control levers by solenoids, cylinders, mechanical linkages, or manually. Optimum force application exists between the gear and pawl so that loads are in compression, rather than in shear. The low carbon steel gears feature a rugged tooth design that has a large contact area with the pawls for positive engagement and reliability.
Body sizes range from 2-7/8″ (73mm) to 2-3/8″ (60mm) x 15/16″ (60mm) to 10-7/8″ (276mm) x 8-3/8″ (213mm) x 1-15/16″ (49mm). Gear sizes range from 1/2″ (13mm) to 4-5/8″ (120mm). Static torque ranges from 200 lb-ft (272 Nm) with an overrunning speed of 250 rpm to 6260 lb-ft (2817 Nm) with an overrunning speed of 30 rpm.
Each clutch body contains holes for mounting. Lowell also supplies gear openings in hex, square, and bore and keyway. All keyways are per ANSI/ASME B17.1. Lubrication becomes critical after 1200 hours of use. Also, Lowell can provide special builds with the buyer’s choice of free-running neutral, size, shape, and gear tooth arrangements.
For more information about Lowell ratchet clutches, or for a full-line catalog, call (800) 456-9355 or email customerservice@lowellcorp.com.
The Best Mechanical Ratchet Clutches for Design Engineers
To make your lives easier, Lowell Corporation offers the best lineman wrenches in the industry. For most aspects of lineman tools and machine design, there is a balance between cost and efficiency. Overall, our ratchet technology strikes the best balance for productivity in construction, maintenance, and manufacturing operations. Let our ratchet and wrench technology make your labor go smoothly. With our essential lineman tools, you get the backing of the most trusted name in the hand tool industry.
Lowell Corporation is proud to manufacture all of its tools right here in the U.S.A. in the heart of New England. All Lowell wrenches are 100% guaranteed with our one-year manufacturer warranty.