Safety sprocket prevents torque overloads

April 15, 2004
Protection against torque overloads on conveyor systems is often overlooked until something jams, causing expensive downtime and damage.

The SK111OXX safety sprocket from R + W America, Bensenville, Ill. (www.rw-america.co), uses a patented ball-detent arrangement to disengage within 3 msec of a torque overload. It reengages and resumes driving once the overload is cleared. Disengagement torque can range from 14 oz/in. to 1,843 lb/ft and shafts can be 0.125 to 7 in. in diameter. The low-cost solution is backlash-free and combines sprocket, bearing, and torque limiter in one package. It can also be configured so that disengagements trigger a motor cutoff switch.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!