Based on the selection of different gears, clutches in cars, trucks and other vehicles are gradually engaged to avoid unpleasant shocks and jerks. A clutch consists of two plates that are joined together by an actuator which exerts a force on one of the two plates (known as the 'pressure plate'). The other plate, called the 'friction plate,' is connected to the engine crankshaft. Through an axle this pressure plate is connected to the gearbox and the remaining part is connected to the power train. The plates are pushed simultaneously by the actuator as the clutch engages. When these plates come in contact, torque is transmitted from the engine to the drive train. This is the stage when the vehicle starts to move. After a certain point of time the speeds of both these plates become equal, they stick together and the engine comes in direct contact with the drive train.

For successful engagement, appropriate force needs to be applied by the actuator. This can be achieved by applying force on the foot pedal by the driver or automatically by a programmed actuator force. The advantage of a clutch being operated automatically is that it relieves the driver of the gear shifting task and disengagement of the clutch.

Interestingly, with the help of technology an automotive clutch can be optimized further. For example, fuel consumption during engagement can be minimized, the time that it takes to engage can be shortened and the wear can be predicted precisely as the forces acting on the clutch components are known.

Types of Automotive Clutches

There are mainly two types of automotive clutches, wet and dry. In wet clutches, the clutch plates remain immersed and are actuated by oil whereas in dry clutches, this mechanism takes place in the absence of oil.

• Original Equipment Clutches: Clutches made by companies that are direct suppliers to new vehicle manufacturers.

• LuK Pro Gold Clutches: Premium quality clutches for cars, light trucks, vans and sport utilities. These clutches have increased torque capacity clamp load without sacrificing service life.

• Organic Clutches: Clutches with friction material on the disc.

• Cerametallic Clutches: Clutches without friction material on the disc.

• Kevlar Clutches: With Kevlar lining on the disc these kinds of clutches have a higher heat resistance and good grabbing power.

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