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Automotive Drivetrains: Clutches
Automotive Drivetrains: Clutches
CLUTCHES
Purpose
To connect and disconnect engine power flow to
the transmission at the will of the driver.
Clutch System
Clutch systems
are used to
disengage the
engine from the
road
When the clutch
pedal is
depressed, the
clutch (and
transmission) is
disengaged from
the engine
Clutch System
With your foot off of the pedal, the
clutch is engaged to the engine.
The pressure plate holds the clutch
against the flywheel, allowing power to
travel through the clutch to the input
shaft of the transmission ...
The engine power
will transfer
through the
clutch to the
road
System
Components
Flywheel: Transfers engine power to the
clutch
Input shaft: Transfers power from
clutch to the transmission
Clutch Disk (clutch): Splined to input
shaft; transfers power from engine to
the input shaft
Pressure Plate Assembly: Spring pressure
tightly holds the clutch to the flywheel
Components cont:
Input (clutch)
shaft
paper-based
ceramic
cotton
brass
Clutch Disc Types
Rigid - used
primarily for
industrial/racing
applications.
Flexible - most
common, everything
from grandmas
cruiser to
street/strip racing.
Flexible Clutch Disc
Clutch facing -
friction
material
marcel springs
- facing
dampener
Spring:
unlimited pressure capabilities
as springs wear, pressure may become
inconsistent
Clutch Components
Release (throw-out) bearing
Each of the
input-shafts
controls half
of the
transmissions
gear-sets
Dual-clutch Transmission