CO3 Electric Motor Driven Clutch Operator: High-Force Industrial Actuator Control

The CO3 Electric Motor Driven Clutch Operator is a heavy-duty, electrically controlled actuator designed for the automatic and precise operation of two-position, lever-action equipment. This rugged unit is engineered to manage high loads, making it ideal for applications like engaging and disengaging over-center clutches on engines, as well as controlling pipeline valves and industrial brakes. Featuring a self-locking ACME screw and fully adjustable stroke up to 6 inches (152 mm), the CO3 provides positive action linear actuation with essential built-in motor protection.

250–500lb-f Operating Force

6in Max Stroke

12 / 24VDC Voltage

2.4in/s Max Speed

Key Features Section

Positive Action Drive: The actuator utilizes a self-locking ACME screw mechanism. This positive-action design ensures the CO3 maintains its position securely, providing reliable control over two-position equipment.
Adjustable Stroke Length: The unit offers a maximum adjustable travel of 6 inches (152 mm), allowing for flexible adaptation and precise setup across a variety of lever-action systems.
Clutch and Motor Overload Protection: Safety is built-in with an overload clutch that slips when the system is excessively stressed, protecting the motor and mechanism. Additionally, an automatic reset thermal overload provides further motor protection from high-temperature conditions.
Pressure Relief (Back-Off Function): A critical feature is the automatic back-off at the end of the engagement stroke. This action slightly retracts the actuator to relieve pressure on the throw-out bearings of the connected clutch or device, significantly extending its service life.
Durable Construction: The entire assembly is housed in a robust cast aluminum case, offering durability and protection in challenging industrial environments.

Applications

Engine Disc Clutches: The CO3 is primarily designed to reliably and automatically engage and disengage over-center disc clutches on industrial engines. Its high operating force and robust construction ensure positive control, making it compatible with MurphyMatic® start-stop engine controllers.
Flow Control Valves: The actuator is an excellent choice for remotely and automatically operating two-position flow devices. This includes the opening and closing of both butterfly and ball valves in various pipeline and fluid transfer applications.
Industrial Brakes and Pumps: The positive action and adjustable stroke make the CO3 suitable for controlling the engagement and disengagement of other heavy-duty mechanical equipment, such as industrial brakes and pumps.
Two-Position Lever-Action Equipment: More generally, the CO3 can be applied to any system requiring the automatic, two-position operation of a lever, including general fixture positioning in automated process control systems.

Technical Specifications

Engineered for precision. Built for the harshest environments on Earth.

Category	Details (CO3-12 / CO3-24)
Voltage / Ground	12 VDC (CO3-12) \| 24 VDC (CO3-24), negative ground
Max. Operating Force	250 lb-f (1112 N) / 500 lb-f (2224 N)
Max. Current Draw	20 amps / 14 amps
Maximum Travel (Stroke)	6 inches (152 mm) — Fully Adjustable
Speed (No Load)	1.2 in./sec. / 2.4 in./sec.
Drive Mechanism	Self-locking ACME screw
Duty Cycle @ 77°F (25°C)	40% @ 125 lb-f (12V) \| 100% @ 75 lb-f (24V)
Operating Temperature	-15 to 150° F (-26 to 66° C)
Case Material	High-strength Cast Aluminum

Technical FAQ

Common Questions Answered

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The CO3 is an electrically controlled and driven actuator designed for the automatic operation of two-position, lever-action equipment. Its primary purpose is to engage and disengage over-center clutches on engines.

The positive action screw-type actuator is fully adjustable for length of stroke up to a maximum of 6 inches (152 mm).

Yes. The CO3 motor is equipped with an overload clutch that slips if overloaded, and it is also protected with an automatic reset thermal overload. It also features a built-in circuit breaker rated at 20 A.

At the engagement end of the stroke, the actuator backs off from its maximum travel (known as the **back-off function**) to relieve pressure on the clutch or other device, protecting the throw-out bearings.

The CO3 is available in two models: the CO3-12 for 12-VDC, negative ground applications, and the CO3-24 for 24-VDC, negative ground applications.