frikoppling

Frikoppling is a term used in Swedish engineering to describe the deliberate disconnection or uncoupling of a driven component from its driving source. The purpose is to interrupt power or torque transmission, enabling maintenance, reducing wear, absorbing shock, or allowing one part to move freely relative to another.

Applications and mechanisms

In mechanical drive systems, frikoppling is commonly implemented with a clutch or a disengageable coupling. Friction clutches, multi-plate clutches, or one-way (sprag) clutches are examples of devices that enable frikoppling. In industrial machinery, disconnect devices, brake assemblies, or power take-off (PTO) disconnects serve to frikoppla equipment during service or when it is not commanded by the control system. In electrical drives, opening a disconnect switch or using braking or decoupling strategies can achieve a similar separation between motor and load, preventing unwanted torque transfer.

Types and control

Frikoppling can be passive (automatic by design, such as a clutch that disengages under certain torque conditions) or active (electrically or hydraulically actuated under computer or sensor control). Interlocks and fail-safe features are commonly included to prevent unintended decoupling and to ensure safe return to coupled operation when required.

Benefits and limitations

Benefits include reduced wear and tear, protection of components from overloads, and safer maintenance procedures. It can also lower energy losses when the drive is not transmitting torque. Limitations involve added hardware cost, potential failure of the decoupling mechanism, and the need for proper control logic and maintenance to prevent misoperation.

See also

Clutch, disconnect device, freewheel, decoupling, interlock.