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Clutches and Brakes

Clutches and brakes form the backbone of multiple operations in industrial, automotive, and machinery applications. Clutches, which transfer rotational power from a drive shaft to a driven shaft, are crucial in automotive vehicles and industrial machinery, allowing for gear changes while the engine is running. On the other hand, brakes inhibit motion by absorbing energy from a moving system, ensuring safety in vehicles and precision in machinery operations.

Clutches and Brakes BY CATEGORY

Magnetic Clutches & Brakes

Magnetic Clutches & Brakes

Utilizes electromagnetism to manage power transmission in machinery, offering precise torque control and engagement.

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Hydraulic Clutches & Brakes

Hydraulic Clutches & Brakes

Fluid-driven systems used in machinery to engage, disengage, or slow down power transmission, offering smooth and precise control of torque application.

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Pneumatic Clutches & Brakes

Pneumatic Clutches & Brakes

Systems that utilize compressed air to control power transmission in machinery, providing efficient torque control and rapid engagement and disengagement.

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Mechanical Clutches

Mechanical Clutches

Devices used in machinery to engage or disengage power transmission from a driving shaft to a driven shaft, allowing for controlled application of torque.

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Clutches and Brakes Accessories

Clutches and Brakes Accessories

Supplementary components that aid in the operation, adjustment, and maintenance of clutches and braking systems in machinery.

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Clutches and Brakes BY BRAND

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About Clutches and Brakes

Clutches and brakes are vital components in various industrial machinery, contributing significantly to these systems' effective and safe operation. Clutches transmit rotational motion and torque in machinery, allowing for smooth gear transitions and efficiency in power transmission. Conversely, industrial brakes halt or control the speed of machinery, ensuring safety and precision during operation. These components, from the automotive to manufacturing sectors, are ever-present, underlining their pivotal role in modern industrial dynamics.


Mechanical clutches are vital in machinery operation, particularly in automotive vehicles. These devices facilitate the engagement and disengagement of power transmission, especially from the drive shaft to the driven shaft. A mechanical clutch allows efficient power transmission from the engine to the vehicle's wheels. The driver can smoothly shift gears and control the vehicle's speed by engaging the clutch. When the clutch is disengaged, it breaks the power flow, allowing the driver to change gears or stop the car without shutting down the engine.


A hydraulic clutch uses pressurized hydraulic fluid to disengage the clutch, allowing the operator to change gears smoothly. The system operates on the principle of Pascal’s law, which states that applying pressure to a fluid is transmitted equally through all areas of the fluid.


Similarly, hydraulic brakes utilize this same principle to stop a vehicle. When engaging the brake pedal, it drives the piston into a cylinder containing hydraulic fluid. This pressure is conveyed through the brake lines to the brake calipers, forcing them to clamp down on the brake rotors, which in turn slows and eventually stops the wheel.


Pneumatic clutches and brakes are mechanical devices using air pressure to engage or disengage power transmission, especially in industrial machinery. A pneumatic clutch works by applying force generated through air pressure to engage the clutch, linking the power source to the machine. When this linkage is required to be broken, the pneumatic brake is engaged. The brake uses the same principle of air pressure, but in this case, it applies friction to slow down or stop the machine. These systems offer the advantage of being exceptionally reliable, capable of handling large power loads, and easy to control remotely.


Magnetic clutches and brakes harness the power of electromagnetism to deliver ultimate control over torque transfer and rotational speed in power transmission systems. These devices offer precision in various industrial applications, enabling smoother operation, minimizing wear and tear, and facilitating variable torque control. Their exceptional performance proves indispensable in conveyor systems, packaging machinery, printing presses, and robotics.


MRO Supply can also supply the clutch and brake accessories to assist in the maintenance and operation of clutching and braking systems. MRO is your one-stop shop for all your clutches, brakes, and accessories. Remember, our products come from only the most reputable manufacturers.

Clutches and Brakes BLOGS

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Auto and Industrial Clutches: What is the Difference?

Auto and Industrial Clutches: What is the Difference?

If you have a manufacturing facility or car, one of the most critical parts is the clutch. But how well... READ MORE

Industrial Clutches: How Do They Work?

Industrial Clutches: How Do They Work?

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Ten Ways to Ruin an Electric Clutch or Brake

Ten Ways to Ruin an Electric Clutch or Brake

When installed properly, many electric brakes and crutches can run for thousands of cycles delivering... READ MORE

How to Select a Clutch and/or Brake

How to Select a Clutch and/or Brake

Clutches and brakes are crucial components in systems that require stopping, holding or indexing loads.... READ MORE

Clutches and Brakes ARTICLES

What are common modes of industrial clutch and brake engagement?

What are common modes of industrial clutch and brake engagement?

Common Industrial Clutch and Brakes

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Growing trend sees more application-specific clutches and brakes

Growing trend sees more application-specific clutches and brakes

Growing Trends - Clutches and Brakes

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Stop in the Name of Safety

Stop in the Name of Safety

Essential Stopping Capabilities

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How to Select a Clutch or Brake

How to Select a Clutch or Brake

Selecting The Right Clutch or Brake

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