In a typical compressor/vacuum pump application, the clutch is mounted on the input shaft of the compressor/vacuum pump. Since the clutch has an integral pulley, a belt is used as the input to the clutch. This belt is normally driving directly from a gas or diesel engine. When there is no power to the clutch, the compressor/vacuum pump is not engaged. When power is supplied to the clutch, the compressor/vacuum pump is engaged to provide pressure or a vacuum.

In this type of application, the compressor/vacuum pump and clutch are mounted together. Usually the clutch is mounted directly to the pump (there needs to be a special adapter face on the pump); sometimes a mounting bracket or adapter plate is used.