Mach III Clutch, Inc. recently announced a new spring engaged industrial friction clutches for torque transmission in the absence of air pressure or during power-off conditions. Mach III spring engaged clutches are available in both regular duty and heavy duty models offering fixed torque transmission from 506 to 24,375 pound inches. These clutches release when air pressure is applied to overcome spring pressure. Catalog models currently available mount at the end of the shaft and include a finished pilot for easy mounting of a sprocket or pulley. Spring engaged friction clutches are made to order with bore and keyway sizes specified by the buyer for shaft sizes from 0.625 to 3.5 inches. Metric sizes are also available. A rotary air union is included.

Mach III is one of a small number of manufacturers offering spring engaged air released industrial clutches. The advantage of a friction design, according to Peter Buckley, the company's senior applications engineer, is that "In contrast with spring engaged tooth clutches which must be engaged at zero or low speed, friction clutches slip slightly when engaged dynamically allowing engagement at any speed." No lubrication or periodic maintenance is required. When worn, friction linings can be replaced in the field. Features include soft start engagement, enclosed design, bored and keyed to suit for easy installation - no bushing required, no anti-rotation arm is required and rotary air union included.