What are the main components of a clutch?
2 Answers
The structure of a clutch consists of four parts: the driving part, the driven part, the pressing mechanism, and the operating mechanism. The introduction to the clutch is as follows: Function of the clutch: The clutch is similar to a switch, engaging or disengaging the power transmission. The clutch mechanism allows the driving part and the driven part to temporarily separate, gradually engage, and also allows relative rotation during transmission. There must be no rigid connection between the driving part and the driven part of the clutch. Any form of automobile has a clutch device, but the forms vary. Classification of clutches: Clutches are divided into four types: electromagnetic clutches, magnetic powder clutches, friction clutches, and hydraulic clutches.
I've been driving a taxi for over a decade, dealing with the clutch on a daily basis. The key components are the flywheel, clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, and diaphragm spring. The flywheel connects to the engine's rotation, while the pressure plate sandwiches the clutch disc against the flywheel to transmit power. The release bearing sits behind the pressure plate—when you press the clutch pedal, it pushes against the spring to separate the pressure plate and clutch disc. The diaphragm spring acts like a flexible steel plate, capable of both clamping and quick disengagement. I've replaced these parts three times in my car, especially the clutch disc which wears thin most easily. In city traffic with frequent partial engagement, the disc wears out quickly—I recommend checking for wear every three to four years. Replacing the whole set costs around a thousand bucks.