The German couplings specialist R+W has developed a safety clutch which, it claims, is 60–70% lighter than conventional designs, and allows smaller clutches to be used in some applications. The SL series clutch, which made its debut at the recent Motek exhibition on Germany, is the result of a two-year collaborative project with universities.

The dramatic weight savings – which result in record ratios of torque output to weight and size – have been achieved through a combination of advanced materials and new coatings. A version with a 160Nm torque limit weighs just 370g. There are four models, with torque ratings from 5–700Nm, capable of operating at speeds of up to 10,000 rpm.

The clutches also incorporate specially designed springs and ball detent systems that are said to raise torque levels by up to 40% compared to standard safety couplings.