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Multiple-disc electromagnetic clutches transmit torque through a stack of friction discs rather than a single contact surface. When the coil is energized, the electromagnetic field compresses the disc stack, generating torque across multiple friction interfaces simultaneously. Separator springs between the discs push the stack apart when power is removed, providing fast release and preventing disc contact in the disengaged state.
Stacking friction discs multiplies torque capacity within the same outer diameter — a multiple-disc unit delivers significantly higher torque than a single-disc clutch of equivalent size. This torque density advantage makes multiple-disc clutches the correct choice when high torque transmission is required but available installation space is constrained.
Electromate carries two Ogura multiple-disc clutch series — the MWC and MDC. Both use the same electrical specifications and outer dimensions. The difference is the operating environment: the MWC is a wet-type unit designed to run in oil, and the MDC is the dry-type equivalent. Both connect to a gear, pulley, or coupling via the Ogura UN drive cup, which slides between the friction disc tangs and provides a tapped bolt pattern for attachment.
Series Comparison Table
Series
Type
Operating Environment
Heat Dissipation
Key Feature
Voltage
MWC
Wet-type multiple-disc
Oil bath (enclosed gearbox)
High — oil lubrication system
Oil path grooves on friction discs for fast engagement; stationary field reduces wear; suited for continuous heavy-duty operation
24 VDC
MDC
Dry-type multiple-disc
Dry (open or enclosed)
Standard
Same electrical specs and dimensions as MWC; fast torque buildup; UN drive cup connection; wet-type variant available
24 VDC
Multiple-disc Electromagnetic Clutches for Purchase & Quote:
How does a multiple-disc electromagnetic clutch work?
A multiple-disc clutch uses an electromagnetic coil to compress a stack of friction discs when energized. Torque is generated across all friction interfaces simultaneously, multiplying torque capacity within the same outer diameter as a single-disc unit. Separator springs between the discs push the stack apart when power is removed, providing fast release and preventing disc contact — and therefore drag torque — in the disengaged state.
What is the difference between the Ogura MWC and MDC series?
The MWC is a wet-type multiple-disc clutch designed to operate in an oil bath, typically inside an enclosed gearbox. Oil path grooves in the friction discs and a stationary field design provide fast engagement, high heat dissipation, and reduced wear for heavy-duty continuous operation. The MDC is the dry-type equivalent — same electrical specifications and outer dimensions as the MWC, but designed for dry operating environments. The choice between them is determined by whether the clutch runs in oil or air.
Why use a multiple-disc clutch instead of a single-disc clutch?
Multiple-disc clutches deliver higher torque capacity within the same outer diameter by generating torque across multiple friction surfaces simultaneously. When installation space is limited but torque requirements exceed what a single-disc unit of that diameter can provide, multiple-disc clutches are the appropriate selection. The torque density advantage is most significant in heavy-duty applications where a single-disc clutch would require an impractically large outer diameter.
What is the UN drive cup used for on Ogura multiple-disc clutches?
The UN drive cup is a separate component that slides between the friction disc tangs on the MWC and MDC series. It includes a tapped bolt pattern that allows a bearing-mounted gear, pulley, or coupling to be attached directly to the clutch output. This makes the MWC and MDC compatible with standard drivetrain components without custom machining.
What applications use multiple-disc electromagnetic clutches?
Multiple-disc electromagnetic clutches are used in gearboxes, machine tools, construction equipment, packaging equipment, cranes, conveyors, and industrial automation systems requiring high torque transmission in compact installations. Wet-type MWC units are particularly suited for gearbox-integrated applications where the clutch shares a lubrication circuit with other drivetrain components.
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