What Is a Roller Clutch?
A roller clutch, resembling a bearing in shape, functions as a clutch, allowing rotational movement in only one direction. These clutches are a specific type of one-way clutches, a broader product group.
Several bearing manufacturers in Japan produce one-way clutches, including those integrated into pulleys.
Uses of Roller Clutches
Roller clutches are commonly used in fishing rod reels, where they allow the line to move only in the reeling direction. They can also be installed in gearboxes or other key gears to prevent reverse rotation.
For installation, the clutch is incorporated into the housing component and inserted into the shaft, ensuring correct orientation for the desired rotational direction.
Principles of Roller Clutches
Comprising an outer ring, rollers, springs, and retainers, roller clutches engage smoothly in the rotatable direction like bearings. In the locked direction, rollers mechanically lock after slight rotation, preventing further rotation in the non-rotatable direction.
Bearing manufacturers offer a variety of roller clutches, catering to different applications and housings, including models with unique clutch functions or external gears and pulleys.