Editorial Technical Reference

Torque Limiter

This page explains how Torque Limiter is classified within Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A safety device that prevents mechanical overload by limiting the maximum torque transmitted through a drive system.

Representative product image. Confirm appearance and specifications with the manufacturer.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Torque Limiter

Definition
A torque limiter is a critical safety component within a spindle or torque head assembly that protects machinery from damage by disengaging or slipping when torque exceeds a preset threshold, preventing overload conditions that could damage gears, shafts, motors, or workpieces. This directory entry covers torque limiters used in machinery and equipment manufacturing, typically installed between a motor and a driven load. They are available in various designs, including friction-type, shear-pin, and ball-detent types, each offering distinct engagement and reset characteristics. The device is characterized by a rated torque range of 10–5000 N·m, with an adjustment range of 50–100% of rated torque. Overload disengagement accuracy is ±5%, ensuring consistent protection. Maximum operating speed is 3000–6000 rpm, limited by centrifugal forces and balancing. The operating temperature range is -20 to 80°C, outside which friction materials degrade. Protection class ranges from IP54 to IP65 per IEC 60529, suitable for dusty or wet environments. Shaft diameters accommodated range from 10 to 100 mm, fitting standard motor and gearbox shafts. Body materials include 45# steel or 40Cr per GB/T 699, offering high strength and wear resistance. Friction materials are sintered metal for high torque applications or resin for low noise. Weight varies from 1 to 50 kg depending on size and torque rating. Backlash is ≤0.1°, critical for precision indexing. Service life is 10,000–50,000 cycles, depending on load and maintenance. These values are directory reference ranges; actual specifications must be confirmed with the legal manufacturer or supplier for the specific model and application. Always verify model-specific values and standards before procurement.
Working Principle
The torque limiter operates by maintaining a preset slip torque threshold. When the transmitted torque exceeds this threshold due to jamming, overload, or sudden shock loads, the device either slips (in friction-type limiters) or disengages (in shear-pin or ball-detent types), interrupting torque transmission until the overload condition is resolved and the device is reset. This prevents damage to downstream components. The threshold is adjustable within 50–100% of rated torque, and disengagement accuracy is ±5%. After an overload event, the limiter must be manually or automatically reset, depending on design. Regular inspection of friction surfaces and mechanical parts is necessary to maintain reliable operation.
Common Materials
Alloy Steel, Spring Steel, Friction Materials
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Rated Torque10–5000 N·mSelect based on application torque requirement
Torque Adjustment Range50–100 %Relative to rated torque
Overload Disengagement Accuracy±5 %Repeatability of trip torque
Maximum Speed3000–6000 rpmLimited by centrifugal force and balancing
Operating Temperature Range-20–80 °COutside this range, friction materials degrade
Shaft Diameter Range10–100 mmFits standard motor and gearbox shafts
Body Material45# steel / 40CrHigh strength and wear resistanceGB/T 699
Friction MaterialSintered metal / ResinSintered for high torque, resin for low noise
Weight1–50 kgDepends on size and torque rating
Backlash≤0.1 °Critical for precision indexing applications
Service Life10000–50000 cyclesDepends on load and maintenance

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Friction Discs Part
    Provide controlled slipping action when torque exceeds threshold
    Material: Sintered Bronze or Composite Friction Material
  • Spring Assembly
    Applies pressure to maintain engagement under normal operating conditions
    Material: Spring Steel
  • Housing Part
    Encloses and protects internal components while providing mounting interfaces
    Material: Aluminum Alloy or Steel
  • Shear Pin Optional
    Shears at the set torque and stays disengaged until replaced — the most positive of the three types.
  • Ball and Detent Set Optional
    Balls held in detents by springs; overload pushes them out and the drive disengages.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Ambient pressure only (not a pressure-containing device)
speed range: Up to 10,000 RPM (depending on size and design)
temperature: -20°C to +120°C (standard), up to +200°C with special seals
torque range: 0.5 Nm to 50,000 Nm (depending on model)
Media Compatibility
✓ General industrial drives (conveyors, pumps, fans) ✓ Packaging machinery ✓ Material handling equipment
Unsuitable: Submerged or high-pressure hydraulic environments
Sizing Data Required
  • Required torque setting (Nm or lb-ft)
  • Maximum operating speed (RPM)
  • Drive system inertia (kg·m² or lb·ft·s²)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Slippage at incorrect torque
Cause: Wear or contamination of friction surfaces, improper calibration, or degraded spring force
Mechanical binding or failure to disengage
Cause: Corrosion, misalignment, foreign object ingress, or damage to internal components like balls or springs
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible clicking or grinding noises during normal operation
  • Visible wear debris or oil leakage around the torque limiter housing
Engineering Tips
  • Implement regular torque calibration checks using certified equipment to ensure the limiter engages at the specified torque
  • Maintain proper alignment and cleanliness of connected shafts, and use sealed units or protective covers in contaminated environments

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO 1940-1:2003 (Balance quality requirements for rotors in a constant rigid state) ANSI/AGMA 2000-A88 (Gear Classification and Inspection Handbook) DIN 743-1:2012 (Calculation of load capacity of shafts and axles)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Bore diameter: +/-0.02 mm
  • Torque setting accuracy: +/-5% of nominal value
Quality Inspection
  • Torque calibration test (verification of slip torque accuracy)
  • Hardness testing (Rockwell or Brinell method for critical components)

Manufacturers of Torque Limiter

5 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Changzhou Tianniu Transmission Equipment Co., Ltd
Changzhou, Jiangsu, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Hangzhou Chinabase Machinery Co., Ltd.
Hangzhou, Zhejiang, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Hangzhou Powertrans Co., Ltd.
Zhejiang, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Recca Machinery
Sichuan, CN
Also makes: Locking Device
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Sogears
Shandong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Technical documentation
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Manufacturing capability
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Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a torque limiter?

The primary function is to protect machinery from damage by limiting the maximum torque transmitted through a drive system. When torque exceeds a preset threshold, the limiter slips or disengages, interrupting torque transmission to prevent overload damage to gears, shafts, motors, or workpieces.

How do I select the correct torque limiter for my application?

Selection is based on the application's torque requirement, which should fall within the rated torque range of 10–5000 N·m. Consider the adjustment range (50–100% of rated torque), maximum speed (3000–6000 rpm), operating temperature (-20 to 80°C), and shaft diameter (10–100 mm). Always verify these parameters with the manufacturer for your specific model.

What maintenance is required for a torque limiter?

Regular inspection of friction surfaces and mechanical parts is recommended. Check for wear, contamination, and proper torque setting. Service life is typically 10,000–50,000 cycles, depending on load and maintenance. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for reset procedures after an overload event.

What are the common types of torque limiters?

Common types include friction-type, shear-pin, and ball-detent. Friction-type limiters slip when torque exceeds the threshold, while shear-pin and ball-detent types disengage completely. Each type has different reset characteristics and suitability for various applications.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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