Torque Limiters

TORQUE OVERLOAD PROTECTION DEVICES

A torque limiter is a mechanical overload protection device that disconnects the load from the drive the instant torque exceeds a set threshold, protecting gearboxes, couplings, conveyors, and the people who work around them from the damage a jam or crash would otherwise cause. Kor-Pak supplies torque limiters from Ringspann and Warner Electric in torque ranges from 5 to 25,600 Nm, with friction, ball-detent, clutch, and coupling-integrated designs for wet or dry environments.

Not sure which torque limiting device fits your application? Call 888-256-7725 and our engineers will size it for you.

Torque Limiter Types We Supply

Every drivetrain has a different failure mode, so torque limiters come in several working principles. Kor-Pak stocks and sources all of the major types and can cross-reference an existing unit to a current equivalent.

Friction Torque Limiters

A friction torque limiter uses spring-loaded single or multi-disc friction surfaces that slip when torque exceeds the set point, then automatically re-engage once the overload clears, no reset, no replacement parts. Ringspann friction torque limiters are fully adjustable and available for wet or dry running, making them the workhorse choice for conveyors, mixers, and general power transmission.

Torque Limiter Clutches

A torque limiter clutch acts as a slip clutch in the driveline: under normal load it transmits full torque, and during an overload it slips at a repeatable, pre-set value. Warner Electric torque limiters are a proven option where frequent, momentary overloads are part of normal operation. Browse our full range of industrial clutches and brakes for related driveline protection.

Torque Limiter Couplings

A torque limiter coupling combines shaft coupling and overload protection in one unit, compensating for shaft misalignment while disengaging on overload, one component instead of two, and a shorter drivetrain. Available with or without an integrated coupling on most Ringspann models. If you only need misalignment compensation without overload protection, see our shaft couplings.

Positive-Engagement (Ball Detent) Torque Limiters

Where friction slip isn’t precise enough, Ringspann positive torque limiters use hardened balls or rollers seated in races that release at an exact torque value and fully disengage the load, ideal for synchronized drives, lifting equipment, and servo applications that demand accurate, repeatable trip points.

Torque Limit Switches for Motor Cut-Off

Torque limiters on rotating elements can be equipped with a torque limit switch that signals the overload the moment the limiter trips, cutting motor power, triggering an emergency stop, or alerting your control system before a slipping drive becomes a burned-out one. Kor-Pak also supplies standalone limit switches and contactors for crane and hoist control systems.

How to Choose the Right Torque Limiter

Sizing an overload protection device correctly comes down to a handful of specifications:

• Trip torque: set 20–50% above peak operating torque (units available from 5 to 25,600 Nm)
• Working principle: friction (re-engaging) vs. positive/ball detent (precise release)
• Environment: wet or dry running
• Configuration: with or without integrated coupling; synchronized re-engagement if timing matters
• Signaling: limit switch for motor cut-off and e-stop integration
• Duty: lifting devices and safety-critical drives have their own requirements

Send us your drivetrain specs through our contact form and we’ll recommend and quote the right unit — including replacements for obsolete or discontinued models.

Sizing, Repair & Support from Kor-Pak

Kor-Pak is an authorized distributor for the industry’s leading torque limiter manufacturers, and we back every unit with application engineering, cross-referencing, and 24/7 emergency sourcing. Already have a unit in service? Read our guide to torque limiter maintenance, repair, and replacement, or call 888-256-7725 to get a slipping or worn limiter rebuilt or replaced before it takes your line down.