Have you ever considered the mechanics behind brick production? While bricks may seem like a simple building material, the machinery involved in their manufacture is anything but. At the heart of this process are high-torque, high-duty cycle components, including WPT Power Grip PO clutches, performing a critical role in ensuring smooth and reliable operation.
The Role of WPT Power Grip PO Clutches in Brick Manufacturing
The predominant method used in brick production is extrusion forming. This process begins with a blend of clay, shale, sand, and water delivered into a horizontal mixing chamber via an automated conveyor system. Inside the mixer, a series of rotating, intermeshing steel paddles or teeth crush the material into a consistent, workable compound.
Once adequately mixed, the compound is transferred directly into the extrusion chamber of the mixer. A powerful auger then forces the material through a precision-engineered die, forming a continuous ribbon or “slug” of clay. This ribbon is immediately cut into uniform sections using high-tensile tensioned wire cutters, preparing the green bricks for the drying and kiln-firing phases.
Both the mixer and the extruder are applications that demand robust, responsive clutch systems. WPT’s Power Grip PO pneumatic clutches are engineered specifically to handle the torque and cycling requirements of these heavy-duty operations.
Power Grip PO Applications
Mixer Application: The mixer is subject to high static torque loads and prolonged engagement durations. WPT PO clutches enable a smooth connection between the motor and the mixer’s main shaft, transferring power efficiently during mixing cycles. Once mixing is complete, the clutch disengages, allowing the material to drop into the extruder. These clutches are built to withstand high torque at low speeds, which is typical in heavy mixing environments.
Extruder Application: The extruder demands a smaller clutch with rapid cycling capability. Here, the clutch must repeatedly engage and disengage at a much higher frequency, often in abrasive and dusty environments. Despite the intense service conditions, the proper installation and setup of these clutches routinely result in multi-year lifespans.
In addition to delivering reliable performance, WPT’s Power Grip PO series serves as an ideal solution or alternative to existing systems. These clutches offer full interchangeability with legacy Twin Disc™ PO air clutch components, making them a seamless upgrade or direct replacement. WPT also provides comprehensive parts support to help minimize downtime during maintenance or retrofit operations.
Whether you are the original equipment manufacturer of brick extruders or the maintenance supervisor at a brick factory, WPT has the reliable clutch technology to optimize your operations. Whether you’re designing brick extrusion equipment as an OEM or maintaining high-volume production lines in an industrial brick plant, WPT Power has the reliable clutch technology to optimize your operations.
Learn more about our capabilities at www.wptpower.com, or contact our team for questions, service, or application support.