Overload protection that keeps your drivetrain safe.
The RENK Torque Limiting Coupling (TLC) protects drivetrains effectively against overtorque and shock load events without disconnecting the drive. Instead of tripping, the TLC limits the torque to a preset value while continuing to transmit power during the overload event. Once the peak subsides, operation returns to normal without further intervention.
Torque limiting couplings Couplings Couplings are used to connect two shafts for the transmission of torque, and to compensate for misalignment or movement. are ideally suited for use in power generation drivetrains which are usually operated on grid and exposed to electrical grid fluctuations (e.g. short circuits, voltage drops, synchronization problems) with FRT (Fault Ride Through) requirements and grid stability regulations.
With the rise of AI, a growing number of these drivetrains are operated behind the meter (i.e., islanded grids) to provide an uninterrupted power supply to data centers, which face the challenge of irregular power peaks during AI training. A shutdown due to overload is not an option, as it would be costly and cause critical issues.
The same applies for industrial drive applications with occasional load peaks.
The torque limiting element can be either combined with all RENK coupling types or used as an individual drivetrain element.
With more than 150 years of experience, RENK combines proven coupling design with torque-limiting functionality tailored to the application.
Advantages at a glance.
- Effectively protects the drivetrain against overtorque events, e. g. generator short circuit, voltage drops, malsynchronization
- Limits torque instead of separating the drive – no costly shutdown during a FRT or power peak event
- Repeatable behavior over the lifetime
- Many references covering different applications
- Enables downsizing of other drivetrain components (reduced service factor in a design)
- Combination with all RENK coupling types
Operating principle
- Once the breakaway torque is exceeded, the torque limiting element begins to slide. Overload energy is dissipated as heat
- For the duration of the overload event, the system finds an equilibrium and transmits only the preset sliding torque
- Once the load drops below the sliding torque, the transmitted torque follows the nominal torque again
- The coupling never disengages and continuously transmits torque
By capping shock loads at a defined value while maintaining torque transmission Transmission The function of a vehicle transmission is to adjust the torque and speed, and to transfer engine power to the drive wheels. , the torque limiting element extends the service life of the entire drivetrain and allows other components to be sized smaller.
Integration into the drivetrain
The torque limiting coupling, respectively drive element, can be combined with all RENK coupling types or installed as a standalone drivetrain element, for example in rigid drivetrains without a dedicated coupling. For optimal protection, it is best installed on the low-speed side of the drivetrain, where torque levels are highest and in close proximity to the motor/generator.
Designed for drivetrains under grid stress
Modern power generation drivetrains operate in an environment characterized by an increasing amount of decentralized and fluctuating energy sources. Grid imbalances and disturbances (e.g. voltage drops) are more frequent, and drivetrains must be able to cope with it while maintaining power quality (FRT requirements). This requires adequate protection that keeps the drivetrain connected during short torque peaks instead of tripping and disconnecting the drive.
The RENK Torque Limiting Coupling has been designed exactly for this purpose. It caps transmitted torque at a preset level, dissipates overload energy as heat within the limiting element, and resumes normal operation once the event has elapsed.
How the torque limiting coupling works
The torque limiting coupling consists of a
- calculated shrink fit with
- defined contact surface
These features define the breakaway and slipping torque, ensuring stable and repeatable behavior throughout the drivetrain's service life.
Downloads
- RENK - Couplings (3.3 MB)
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