Different Types Of Clutches And Their Functions

Posted by Hojae Lee on August 24th, 2015

The importance of clutches cannot be understated. The uses of clutches are meant towards controlling transmission of motion or power and also limit the amount of torque that is being transmitted through the clutch. As a result, the engine power that is transmitted to wheels is automatically controlled. In simple words, a clutch is defined as a kind of mechanical device that is capable of engaging and even disengaging power transmissions from the driving shaft on to the driven shaft.

The following paragraphs focus on discussion on different types of clutches, such as, hydraulic actuated multiple disc clutch, ventilated disc clutch and pneumatically actuated disc clutch. Hawers Co., Ltd., a ventilated disc clutch manufacturer in Korea is known for producing the perfect hydraulic actuated multiple disc clutch in Korea and pneumatically actuated disk clutch in Korea.

Multiple Disc Clutch

This type of clutch is mostly applied in racing cars. Multiple clutches enable to produce best possible acceleration and they are without doubt subjected to maximum abuse. Besides, multiple clutches are also used in electronically-driven all-wheel drive systems. You can also find the application of multiple disc clutch in AFV’s and tanks and even in earthmoving equipments, such as, bulldozers, front-end loaders and more so.

The wide use of multiple disc clutch in motorsport vehicles is predominantly observed owing to its lessening rotational inertia that is capable of encouraging drivetrain components to accelerate much faster than expected. This in turn helps to reduce angular velocity lying on the outer areas of a clutch unit. Since sports cars are very much powerful the engine in it if started with a simple clutch will result in loss of traction. However, it is not the same with multiple clutch plates. The coupling in the car functions in hydrodynamic condition.

Pneumatically actuated disc clutch

The pneumatically actuated disc clutches are designed for functioning with full circle gear. Such a clutch is meant to transfer power and motion from a rotating drive train to a stationery one. Once the clutch is engaged it enables the vehicle to accelerate to full speed instantly. You are assured of a smooth-start or highly fast engagement that can actually be achieved by controlling the air pressure sent to the clutch. A rare combination of brake or clutch units ensures extra flexibility. Customers can look out for high speed, high cycle, and lower inertia designs as available in pneumatically actuated disc clutch.

Ventilated disc clutch

A standard ventilated disc clutch is capable of creating large friction area to augment high energy for a smoothly controlled start-up. These are air applied clutch with full circle friction plates. You can find a range in disc design owing to the demands of different torque requirements and shaft diameters. Also, it’s easy change ring design helps in the scope of proper maintenance.

Remember this that the clutches depend upon frictional forces for a smooth operation. The objective of friction clutches is to effectively connect the moving components moving at varied speed or at stationary. This is to synchronize speed and eventually transmit power for a car to function at its best.