What is the main function of a clutch?
2 Answers
The main function of an automotive clutch is to gradually engage the connection between the engine and the transmission, ensuring smooth vehicle startup. It temporarily disconnects the link between the engine and the transmission to facilitate gear shifting and reduce impact during gear changes. During emergency braking, the clutch can separate to prevent overload in the transmission system, providing a certain protective effect. Here is information about clutches: 1. Driving section. The driving section consists of components such as the flywheel, clutch cover, and pressure plate. This part is connected to the engine crankshaft. The clutch cover is bolted to the flywheel, and torque is transmitted between the pressure plate and the clutch cover via 3-4 drive straps. 2. Driven section. The driven section is composed of single, dual, or multiple friction discs, transmitting the power from the driving section to the transmission input shaft through friction. The driven disc consists of three basic parts: the driven disc body, friction linings, and the driven disc hub. 3. Pressure mechanism. The pressure mechanism mainly consists of coil springs or diaphragm springs, rotating together with the driving section. Supported by the clutch cover, it presses the pressure plate against the flywheel, thereby clamping the driven disc between the flywheel and the pressure plate. Coil springs are divided into two types: circumferentially arranged and centrally arranged. A clutch with a cylindrical or conical spring arranged at the center is called a central spring clutch. 4. Operating mechanism. The clutch operating mechanism starts from the clutch pedal in the driver's compartment and ends at the release bearing inside the clutch. Its function is to convert the human force on the pedal into thrust that pushes the release sleeve. It can be categorized into mechanical, hydraulic, assisted, and servo types.
The clutch is essentially a switch that connects or disconnects the engine from the wheels. When you press it down, the engine idles, and the wheels aren't engaged, making gear shifts smoother. I hate pressing the clutch in traffic jams—my leg gets sore, but there's no choice; not pressing it would stall the car. Experienced drivers know how to control the semi-engaged state, that feeling when the clutch disc just starts to touch—hill starts rely on this. If the car shakes as soon as you lift your foot, the clutch disc is probably worn thin. Remember, don't rest your foot on the clutch pedal; keeping the release bearing spinning will burn it out in no time.
