Application

Using multiple Ogura clutches on fishing boat drive system to save energy and extend life of components.

Products Used

Ogura marine clutch and mobil special purposes clutches.

Size Used

MMC-40 (C1), MA6A (C2), MA7FS (C3), MA7A (C4).

Description of Operation

The engine normally drives a prop; however, when the boat is stopped and they are hauling up their load clutch #1 is engaged to drive the winch. During the winching operation if a salt water spray is required clutch #2 (C2) is engaged to turn on the water pump. The generator, clutch #3 (C3) and the hydraulic pump, clutch #4 (C4) are also occasionally required to turn on when the engine is operating. Hydraulics are only required occasionally during the operation and the generator is not required during much of the day light hours. All four (4) clutches can be either manually or automatically engaged depending upon their setup.

Reason for Selection of the Clutch for This Application

If all of the sub-systems ran off the engine all the time, it would put an additional power drain on the engine which would consume excess fuel. Additionally, since the parts would be rotating they would also shorten their individual lives. By placing a clutch on the various assemblies they can be engaged only when required, therefore, maximizing engine power drain and sub- component life. All four (4) of the clutches are sized to fit standard shaft configurations and torque requirements. The water pump and hydraulic pump have the standard four-bolt mounting and tapered shaft. The generator has a straight shaft and requires a special pulley, so the MA7FS is used and the customer manufacturers his own pulley. The MMC-40 is used to drive both the winch and the water pump because the water pump can only be engaged when the winch is working; however, the water pump is not required the whole time the winch is working.

Other Applications

Besides commercial fishing boats there are also applications in pleasure crafts where our clutch may be required on a generator or freshwater pump. There are also smaller applications requiring a hydraulic winch that would use a MA6A or 7A clutch. These are typically found on lobster, shrimp and crab boats.