Centrifugal Clutch (Isidore)

The Centrifugal Clutch is the key mechanical component that makes the Stirling Engine's mechanical drive possible.

The Problem (Low Torque)

The LTD Stirling engine produces very low torque (twisting force), especially at startup. It does not have the "grunt" to start a water pump from a dead stop and would stall.

The Solution (Clutch)

The centrifugal clutch (similar to a go-kart's) "disconnects" the engine from the pump at low speeds. 1. The Stirling engine starts up under "no load." 2. It uses the server heat to get up to its optimal, high speed. 3. Once it reaches a pre-set RPM, the clutch's internal weights are thrown outward, engaging the clutch drum. 4. Only then is the engine's full, high-speed power transferred to the gearbox and pump.

This allows a low-torque engine to power a high-torque mechanical load, all without electronics.