WPT Power Low Inertia (LI) clutches and brakes are a perfect match for the Steel/Metal Forming industry. We have an extensive product line to cover all your equipment needs. Our products include the Low Inertia Clutch and Low Inertia High Torque Clutch, along with the Low Inertia Brake, Low Inertia Spring Set Brake, and Steel Water Cooled Brake. In addition, the Power Performance Low Inertia (PPLI) Clutch, PPLI Brake, and upgrade kit are available. This family of products brings performance, reliability, and precision to any equipment.
The WPT Low Inertia (LI) product line is specifically designed for a variety of applications, including presses, shears, high-cycle machines, tension control, fail-safe systems, high-heat environments, and coil processing. Its unique ventilation design allows cool air to enter the unit, helping to dissipate heat during start-up and shutdown processes. Additionally, improvements have been made to reduce the quantity and mass of rotating parts, which enhances machine efficiency. The LI clutches and brakes line also offers both imperial and metric mounting options to accommodate a wide range of applications.
The Low Inertia line features rigid, molded friction materials that ensure uniform torque production and consistent wear rates. Once installed on a machine, the Low Inertia clutch or brake operates reliably, which is essential for cyclic applications. This consistency facilitates the establishment of regular preventative maintenance (PM) programs and decreases the likelihood of forced shutdowns due to clutch or brake repairs. Additionally, PMs and rebuilds can be performed quickly and easily, thanks to the conveniently located wear shims and the unique multi-plate design of the Low Inertia line.
The WPT LI clutches and brakes utilize a proprietary airtube actuator to engage or disengage the clutch or brake. This allows for a wide operating range with the level of precision needed for the correct timing of the material operation. Quick response times are possible due to the number and size of the airtube spuds (air connection in airtube) and WPT Quick-release Valves (QRVs). The WPT QRV is maintenance-free and allows air to exhaust from the tube as quickly as possible. Optional mufflers are also available to reduce the ambient noise in the plant.
A newer addition to the Low Inertia line is the Power Performance Low Inertia (PPLI) upgrade kit. This kit replaces the standard molded friction discs and center plates with high-grade semi-metallic drive plates and high airflow, reduced inertia centerplates. The PPLI upgrade is also available in complete units that can be used for new applications or for easy replacements of existing Low Inertia clutches or brakes. The PPLI upgrade kit is a great addition to any machine and allows for increases in cycles per minute (CPM).
For extremely high-heat applications, such as coil processors and high-cycle press/shear lines, the best option may be a Steel Water Cooled Brake (Steel WCB). The Steel WCB features a unique center plate design with an internal water passage. When plumbed to an external pumping/cooling system, the Steel WCB can quickly transfer the heat out of the brake. This ability to transfer heat enables the brake to be used in continuous slip applications, as well as in high-cycle-per-minute machines.
When it comes to clutches and brakes for the Steel/Metal Forming industry, the WPT Power line of Low Inertia clutches and brakes adds performance, reliability, and precision to the equipment.