February 2024 Volume 6

MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE

• What is the weight of the ram assembly? • What is the main motor data - HP, RPM (Maximum and minimum if variable speed), motor sheave diameter, and number of belts? • What is the length of the connecting rod from the center of the crankshaft or eccentric gear bore to the center of the wrist pin in the ram? • What is the maximum braking time/angle required? As mentioned earlier the most critical step in the process of consideration for a clutch/brake conversion is the proper sizing and installation of the conversion components. Most forging machinery will use a hydraulic clutch/brake due to the torque loads and high single trip rates. Another important consideration for successful operation is the proper maintenance of the hydraulic systems that drive the clutch/ brake assemblies. Hydraulic lines and fittings must be maintained, and any leaks repaired. Flex lines will need to be visually checked monthly and lines replaced at the first sign of damage. The filters should be changed every 60 days. The reservoir should be drained and flushed out at least yearly. In addition, there are normally clean up plugs on the clutch brake housings that can be removed, and contamination allowed to be cleaned out at least every six months. If you have a machine in your operation that you believe might be a good candidate for a clutch/brake conversion I recommend that you reach out to your local supplier of clutch/brakes and working together with them, complete a study of your existing machine and obtain a quotation for a new clutch brake that will meet your requirements. Once you have the proper size you can reach out to a machine repair and rebuilding company for installation. Jeff Fredline Owner-Industry Consultant Prestrade Phone: 615-517-4282 Email: fredline.jeff@gmail.com Photos provided by Torque Technologies, Inc.

Examples of Hydraulic Goizper Clutch Brake installations We have mentioned that the most important step in the process is not the manufacturing of the clutch/brake but the proper sizing for the clutch/brake for the application. To properly size the correct clutch/brake for the application/machine we will need to obtain the following information. • How much force is generated and how far above bottom dead center is the full tonnage required? • What is the drivetrain/gear train layout? What is the gear ratio and where is the clutch brake going to be mounted - on the crankshaft or on a driveshaft? Most forging presses have the clutch brake assembly mounted on the crankshaft. • What is the operating stroke of the machine? • What is the number of engagements per minute at maximum speed working in the single stroke mode of operation? • What is the size OD, ID, width and rim thickness of the flywheel on the machine? • What are the sizes of the drive gearing, including the Bull Gear diameter and number of gear teeth. The same data is required for the drive pinion.

FIA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2024 29