Clutch Facing
Clutch facings are used in engines and mechanical systems to reduce the amount of noise caused by the operation of clutches. Clutches are engine components that allow the operator to switch gears by engaging or disengaging a drive shaft in the engine. The incorporation of clutch facings allows for smoother and more consistent clutch engagement and disengagement which results in a smoother ride and has the potential to reduce output costs per mile.
Quick links to Clutch Facing Information
Benefits of Clutch Facings
There are a number of reasons for the use of clutch facings. A major benefit to using a lining or facing is that it prevents metal-to-metal contact within the clutch set, resulting in less wear and tear on the clutch components. Clutch facings tend to have mid-level coefficients of friction, and are responsible for removing most of the clutch vibrations from the engine. If there was no clutch facing, the metal parts would wear out a lot faster, and the noise and vibrations from the clutch would be higher. They also aid in allowing engines to achieve high speeds without damaging the components. When the clutch is engaged, power can be transferred to the transmission and drive-wheels from the engine. The clutch facings ensure the gears do not grind against each other during this process, and provide elasticity and support. The facings will inevitably wear down as a result of the pressure and often extreme conditions within the engine, especially if consistently run at high speeds. Clutch linings therefore need to be periodically checked and replaced if necessary to ensure that protective elements are still intact and that optimum performance is being achieved.
Design of Clutch Facings
Clutch facings can be manufactured from a range of materials depending on application and some of the most common are asbestos, woven fibers such as Kevlar or aramid and ceramic materials. As with disc brake pads and other clutch materials, the materials used in clutch facings need to be durable. The process of engaging and disengaging drive shafts involves the transfer of kinetic energy into heat energy; therefore clutch facings need to be able to endure the tension of the process as well as the high temperatures which will be reached. Clutch facings are used in marine engines, heavy duty truck and lightweight vehicle engines as well as power presses, friction blocks and a number of industrial applications. The smooth and stable performance of many engines can be attributed to the existence of a quality clutch facing.