Linear force limiter prevents overloads

In this case the limiter is part of a locking mechanism for a rail-mounted tower used in Airbus production. It is mounted on the output of a screw jack that holds the tower in a fixed position. By preventing excessive forces, the limiter ensures stability and safety for the tower.

The DSA range of linear force limiters with ratings from 30 to 7000N is an established product used to prevent force overloads, for example in gearbox torque arms and reciprocating mechanisms. Inside a compact central module are spring loaded fingers that locate into a groove on the central shaft. An overload in either tension or compression causes the fingers to move out of the groove and the resulting axial movement is detected by a proximity switch to turn off the drive. For this tower a new size was designed with a rating of 20000N and a body diameter of 105mm. A force overload results in axial movement of 2mm.

ComInTec DSA force limiters and ComInTec torque limiter products available in friction, ball and roller designs are sold in the UK by Techdrives, a division of Lenze Ltd. Please go to www.techdrives.co.uk to learn more.