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Clutches & Brakes


Page Thumb Clutches Brakes ISC CompaniesClutches and Brakes

ISC Companies and affiliate Adams-ISC are distributors of mechanical power transmission parts including clutches and brakes. For more information about the brands we offer and/or pricing, please contact us by phone 763-559-0033, by email [email protected], or by filling out our online contact form.


Clutches are used to connect the prime mover, the motor, or engine, to the load while allowing the torque transmission to be interrupted. Brakes are used to stop, hold, or slow a load. Clutches engage a wide range of equipment with torque values from a few inch-pounds to more than 50 million inch-pounds and unit diameters from one inch to more than 50 inches. Combination clutch/brakes are used in systems where accurate and consistent cycling is important.

When starting or stopping, clutches and brakes pass energy (heat) between input and output shaft through the point of contact. Transmission of torque can occur via frictional forces (most common), electromagnetic flux, or mechanical lockup. Transmission configurations include single friction disc, multiple disc, caliper disc, or drum.

Clutches and brakes can be categorized by the actuation method such as mechanical, electromagnetic, pneumatic, or hydraulic. Important factors to consider during the selection process include: torque, response time, envelope size and configuration, repeatability, cyclic requirement, thermal capacity, and mounting (shaft, flange, base or engine flywheel / PTO).

Typical Clutch and Brake Application

Types of Clutches & Brakes (Chart)

Photos from Warner Electric (Altra Motion)

Clutches and Brakes Line Card ButtonLine Card  |  View All Line Cards


Top Brands We Offer

Boston Gear_Altra Brand Logo

Browning Brand Logo

Formsprag Clutch_Altra Brand Logo

Nexen Brand Logo

Regal Rexnord Brand Logo

Stearns_Rexnord Brand Logo

Stieber Clutch_Altra Brand Logo

TB Woods Brand Logo

Thomson Brand Logo

US Tsubaki Brand Logo

Warner Electric_Altra Brand Logo

WPT Power Brand Logo


PTDA-Handbook-CoverContent on this page was created using excerpts from the Power Transmission Handbook (5th Edition), which is written and sold by the Power Transmission Distributor’s Association (PTDA).

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ISC Companies and affiliate Adams-ISC are industrial distributors of bearings and mechanical power transmission parts. We have many different models and brands in stock for fast delivery. Our sales professionals are happy to assist you in the selection process to ensure the correct part is specified for your application. Get a quote by clicking below on “Request Pricing” and filling out the contact form or give us a call at 1-800-627-9434.

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