Modeling and Parametric Study of Torque in Open Clutch Plates Available to Purchase

The relative motion of the friction and separator plates in wet clutches during the disengaged mode causes viscous shear stresses in the fluid passing through the 100 microns gap. This results in a drag torque on both the disks that wastes energy and decreases fuel economy. The objective of the study is to develop an accurate mathematical model for the above problem with verification using FLUENT and experiments. Initially we start with two flat disks. The mathematical model enables us to calculate the drag torque on the disks and 2D axisymmetric solver verifies the solution. The surface pressure distribution on the plates is also verified. Then 3D models of one grooved and one flat disk are tested using CFD, experiments and an approximated 3D mathematical model and three parameters namely number of grooves, depth of groove and clearance between the disks are studied to understand the effect they have on the drag torque. Conclusions are finally drawn and design implementations are suggested to reduce drag.