Which is Better: Dry or Wet Dual-Clutch Transmission?

[TessaDella]

Wet dual-clutch transmissions are superior to dry ones, though they come at a higher price. A wet dual-clutch transmission features two multi-plate clutches—one large and one small—mounted coaxially within a sealed oil chamber filled with hydraulic fluid. This design provides better modulation and superior thermal properties, allowing it to handle higher torque without damage. Pros and Cons of Wet Dual-Clutch Transmissions: 1. Advantages: Wet dual-clutch transmissions are stable and mature, enabling fast, smooth, and seamless gear shifts. The presence of cooling fluid prevents overheating, even at low speeds. 2. Disadvantages: Due to their complex structure, wet dual-clutch transmissions are bulkier and heavier, resulting in significantly higher manufacturing costs. Maintenance is also more time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring periodic replacement of cooling fluid.