Is DCT an Automatic or Manual Transmission?

[AdrianAnn]

DCT belongs to the automatic transmission category, specifically a dual-clutch transmission. Introduction to DCT: The dual-clutch automatic transmission, abbreviated as DCT, can be structurally divided into dry and wet types. The drive shaft in a DCT is split into two parts during operation: one is a solid drive shaft, and the other is a hollow drive shaft. The solid drive shaft connects to gears 1, 3, 5, and reverse, while the hollow drive shaft connects to gears 2, 4, and 6. Two separate clutches are responsible for the engagement of each drive shaft, allowing engine power to be transmitted seamlessly through one of the shafts. Differences between Wet and Dry DCT: Response Speed: Dry clutches transmit power directly through metal plates, providing more immediate power delivery. When the metal plates are pressed together, the transmission ratio increases, resulting in direct and noticeable effects. Wet clutches, however, use fluid as an intermediary. The process involves speeding up the driving plate, increasing the centrifugal force of the fluid, and then accelerating the driven plate, adding an extra step. Consequently, the response speed is slightly slower. Transmission Efficiency: From the structure of the clutch, it's evident that wet clutches are more complex. This complexity leads to higher energy loss, resulting in lower transmission efficiency for wet dual-clutch transmissions. This means more engine power is consumed, and under unchanged conditions, it leads to higher fuel consumption. Torque Capacity: The metal friction plates in dry clutches cannot withstand excessive torque. If subjected to high stress impacts, the friction plates can easily be damaged. Therefore, dry clutches are only suitable for small-displacement, low-torque output vehicles. Some models even deliberately limit the engine's torque output in lower gears to protect the transmission clutch.