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Formsprag Model FSO-900 Overrunning Clutch and Amusement Park Water Ride
A popular Orlando Florida theme park needed a replacement overrunning clutch for
use on one of its rides. The attraction features Viking-styled, flat-bottom boats that
move passengers along a shallow water canal through a series of dramatic scenes with
special effects.
Backstopping Clutch for Amusement Ride
The backstopping clutch is installed on the drive at the base of the boat conveyor
lift near the beginning of the ride. The clutch automatically engages to prevent the
inclined boat lift conveyor from rolling backwards in case of a power outage during
the ride’s operation.
The problem was that the original competitor clutch was failing due to its age.
Formsprag worked with a distribution partner as well as the ride maintenance
engineers to ensure that the replacement clutch was suitably sized to meet the
ride’s requirements.
Formsprag's Replacement Clutch Solution
Ultimately, Formsprag provided a special replacement FSO-900 clutch that featured
nickel plating to withstand the heavily treated water containing chlorine and other
corrosive chemicals. A food-grade grease was substituted to eliminate any oil
lubrication from contaminating the water.
The 12” diameter FSO-900 clutch has a 18,000 lb.ft. (24,480 Nm) torque capacity.
All FSO automatic backstopping clutches feature a high torque density and require
no adjustments or controls.
Highlights
- 18,000 lb.ft. (24,480 Nm)
torque capacity
- Nickel plated for enhanced
corrosion resistance
- Food-grade grease
lubrication
- Requires no adjustments
or controls