centrifugal clutch

device

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 24, 2026

Quick Summary

A centrifugal clutch is an automatic friction clutch that uses centrifugal force to engage and maintain contact between driving and driven parts. As the driving part's speed increases, centrifugal force causes friction shoes to press against the driven member, establishing and strengthening the connection. Conversely, when the driving part slows down, springs break the contact. This device allows for automatic engagement and disengagement based on rotational speed, commonly found in machines where the motor or engine needs to start unloaded.12

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clutch
…engagement is obtained with a centrifugal clutch in which the friction shoes are segments of rings that are pivoted to or carried around by the driving member and make firmer and firmer contact with the internal cylindrical surface of the driven member as the driver’s speed increases.
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…engagement is obtained with a centrifugal clutch in which the friction shoes are segments of rings that are pivoted to or carried around by the driving member and make firmer and firmer contact with the internal cylindrical surface of the driven member as the driver’s speed increases.
Read More