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A clutch is a mechanical device whose primary function is to connect and disconnect two rotating shafts allowing them to either transmit power when they are connected or to rotate independently when they are disconnected.
There are various types of clutches and they are; friction clutch, centrifugal clutch, hydraulic clutch, electromagnetic clutch, torque converter and the dual clutch transmission.
Friction clutch uses friction to connect and disconnect two rotating shafts.
Centrifugal clutch uses centrifugal force to connect and disconnect two rotating shafts.
Hydraulic clutch uses hydraulic fluid force to connect and disconnect two rotating shafts.
Electromagnetic clutch uses electromagnetic forces to connect and disconnect two rotating shafts.
Torque converters uses a fluid filled chamber to connect and disconnect two rotating shafts.
Dual clutch uses two clutches to connect and disconnect two rotating shafts.
In an automobile vehicle the clutch is used to connect and disconnect the engine drive shaft from the transmission shaft so as to allow the smooth change of gears.
The advantages of clutches are; they allow for smooth change of gears and hence enhance optimal power transmission from the engine to the wheels. Clutches improve fuel efficiency by helping or allowing the vehicle to transits to a more efficient speed when required. Clutches provide a means to control the engine power output so as to avoid wear and tear of both the engine and the transmission.
The disadvantages of clutches are; they require frequent repairs and maintenance. Some clutches are complex and difficult to repair. The failure of clutches may result to a catastrophe for both the vehicle engine and the transmission especially at high speeds.
Clutches find applications in the following industries; clutches are used in automotive applications, such as in manual and automatic transmission vehicles. Clutches are used in industrial applications such as conveyor belts and pumps. Clutches are used in aerospace applications such as aircraft engines and gear boxes.
The future of clutches will depend on the trends and the development in the following; the trend towards the use of dual clutches in transmission will continue, since its use will provide a faster and smoother gear shifting. The trends towards electric vehicles may accelerate the use of electrified clutches that uses electric motors to connect and disconnect the two rotating shafts providing faster and more efficient gear shifting. Also the development of advanced materials such as carbon fiber and advanced ceramics would eventually be incorporated in vehicles thereby improving performance and the lifespan of clutches.
SOURCES:
- Automotive engineering: powertrain, chasis system and vehicle body by David C. Barton and David A. Crolla.
- Automotive clutch and transmission systrm: Design, simulation and testing by David A. Crolla.
- Clutch design and development by R.W Foster.
- Advanced clutch technology by H. Naunheimer,B. Bertsch and Ryborz.
- Clutch handbook by John M. Miller.
