Power Transmission Engineering Magazine
www.powertransmission.com/articles/4471

Zero-Max Offers Overload Safety Couplings

January 7, 2013
Overload safety couplings from Zero-Max are available in special models designed for washdown applications. They clean up easily, won’t corrode, and operate in a wide temperature range. Providing torque limiting and coupling functions in a single, compact unit, these Torq-Tender overload safety couplings serve both as a safety device and as a coupling in a power transmission system. They protect motor and drive systems from jam-ups and excessive overloading. Torq-Tender washdown models have a special seal and modified housing that resists water intrusion and outside contamination. They use a food grade lubricant, making them suitable for food processing and packaging systems. Operation of these Torq-Tenders, like all models, is simple and automatic. When a power transmission system’s load exceeds the preset precision-tempered torque spring rating, the Torq-Tender’s drive mechanism pivots out of an engagement slot, disengaging the prime mover from the load, providing overload protection. When the overload is removed and the speed is reduced, the Torq-Tender resets itself automatically. The single position re-engagement point maintains equipment timing and positioning. Available in torque ranges from 2 to 3,000 in-lbs., Torq-Tenders provide tamper proof preset torque settings. The precision torque settings do not require costly and potentially risky calibration procedures. As a coupling, the Torq-Tender can handle up to 1.5 degrees of angular misalignment and a maximum parallel misalignment of 0.005 to 0.015 inch. Torq-Tenders for wash-down applications are available in a full range of sizes. From the smallest, TT1X (torque ranges 2 to 60 in-lbs.) to the largest TT4X (torque ranges 750 to 3,000 in-lbs.). They are available with preset factory torque ratings and with a variety of mounting configurations.