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Formsprag Clutch Model FSO Backstopping Clutches for Rope Shovel Ventilation Fans
A major manufacturer of fans and blowers needed a high-torque clutch solution
for installation on mine shovel ventilation fans. The fans are used to control the
temperature inside the shovel’s diesel engine compartment. Extremely high
temperatures are created from the heat generated by the numerous electric drive
motors that operate the shovel’s hoist, swing, and propel movements. The fans
prevent equipment overheating by improving cooling and ventilation.
The backstopping clutches, mounted to each individual fan shaft, prevent reverse
rotation (windmilling) that is caused by air flow from the environment when the
ventilation fans are turned off. Significant damage to the motor and drive belts can
occur if the fan is windmilling during startup.
Formsprag Model FSO-600 clutches with a 2250 lb.ft. (3060 Nm) torque capacity
met the customer’s application requirements. Low-maintenance FSO automatic
backstopping clutches feature a high-torque density and require no adjustments or
controls, reducing operating costs.
Highlights
- 2,250 lb.ft. (3060 Nm)
torque capacity
- Require no adjustments
or controls
- Prevents fan windmilling
- Bore range: 0.93 to
2.25 in. (23.8 to 57 mm)