Free wheels 

The roller type free wheels consist of an external component with an internal circular sliding surface, an internal component with contact segments arranged in a star configuration and also multiple contact elements, each sprung by the inner race. Within the number of rotations allowed, these rollers remain constantly in contact with both the internal and external components. This allows the roller free wheels to be always ready for instertion - free wheels components are located immediately as soon as the internal or external components are turned in the opposite direction to each other.

In addition, according to the torque loading to be transmitted, after insertion, all the components that transmit the torque load will be subjected to elastic deformation, resulting in a feed delay.

Roller free wheels may be used for overrunning clutch, backstop or intermittent feed applications. The specific function required depends on the number of intermittent feeds required and on the torque loads to be transmitted, taking into account the highest numbers of rotations (the difference between the number of internal to external component rotations in relation to the number of external to internal  component rotations). 

MAXIMUM IDLE SPEED

There are no limitations on speed in the direction of transmission of the torque, or freewheels engaged because the parts are interlocked, therefore there is no movement relative to each other. In the direction of rotation in neutral, instead, the maximum limits are shown in the tables and depend on the dimensions of the freewheels and the type of lubricant used.

To avoid damage, limits must not be exceeded, and in the case of operation primarily in neutral it is advisable to maintain the right safety margin.

DURATION

To ensure a long lifespan for a freewheel, it is necessary to analyse and balance various factors, (speed, number of engagements, loads and lubrication) depending on the application mode.