Stromag KHM Clutch for Self-Propelled Forage Harvester

A leading global manufacturer of agricultural equipment needed a rugged clutch solution for a line of its forage harvesters. The PTO clutch, installed on a belt drive, is used to engage and disengage the cutter head/mower at engine running speed.

The OEM contacted several clutch manufacturers but ultimately selected Stromag based on its extensive experience with agricultural applications. The Stromag engineering team worked closely with the customer to ensure the new clutch solution would transmit high torque and integrate smoothly within the customer’s overall small drive system space envelope. The clutch also needed to be weather-resistant, have high heat capacity and generate low-noise at idle speed.

To meet the specific customer requirements, Stromag supplied a KHM hydraulic clutch with a torque range of 3,500-10,000 Nm and an operating pressure of 25-35 bar.

The power-dense KHM clutch was easily installed as a shaft-pulley connection, providing power transmission with minimized backlash on the pulley side through an external body and piston with diaphragm guidance. The clutch has minimal residual torque when opened. The friction lining carrier, with steel/sinter friction pairings, is positioned on the shaft side.