Do you know the difference between a centrifugal clutch and a centrifugal brake?

Funktionsweise einer Fliehkraftkupplung
Funktionsweise einer Fliehkraftbremse

The Centrifugal clutch is used to synchronize the speed between two rotating parts. It is often used in machines such as vibratory plates, wood chippers or go-karts. As the speed increases, the centrifugal force pushes the clutch elements apart, which leads to a frictional connection and thus to the transmission of the rotary movement. The housing of the centrifugal clutch can be designed as a belt pulley, with a sprocket for a chain drive or in combination with a shaft coupling.

In comparison, the Centrifugal brake is used to slow down the rotational movement of a rotating part. This happens when the speed of the rotating part increases and the centrifugal force activates the brake. The brake shoes are then pressed apart, which leads to friction and thus to a reduction in the rotational speed. With a centrifugal brake, the housing is fixed and does not rotate.


We have been producing centrifugal clutches and centrifugal brakes for a wide range of applications since 1982.

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