R+W America (www.rw-america.com) is proud to announce the release of SL Series – a torque limiter that utilizes a spring-loaded ball detent system, together with a formerly patented preload for zero-backlash operation.

In order to achieve a 50% weight reduction target, R+W America entered a collaborative effort with local universities for two years, designing the product from the ground up instead of simply optimizing or redesigning existing products. This resulted in a torque limiter built from high-tech materials with innovative assembly technology and unique surface treatments, which simultaneously reduce its footprint and surpass weight reduction targets.

Aside from custom material specifications, some improvements to the ball detent’s configuration and specially designed spring systems, leading to a 40% increase in torque capacity, the weight reduction has been achieved by compressing individual components.

The four sizes (Series 30/60/150/300) involve several mounting options, which include direct and indirect drive versions, as well as cover disengagement torque values from 5Nm to 700Nm.

Models SLP (keyway) and SLN (clamping) attach by flange to sheaves, sprockets, gears and pulleys, as well as include an integral dual-bearing system to support chain and belt tension when properly placed over the shaft. Models SLE (servo insert coupling) and SL2 (bellows coupling) mount inline between the two independently supported shafts like motor to ball screw connections and compensate for the smaller yet inevitable misalignment, which is present in this kind of machine layout.

Each of the four types is field adjustable and comes with English and metric bores based on the customer’s specifications.