In the realm of clutch facings production, the choice of clutch facings friction materials plays a pivotal role in determining the performance and durability of the final product. Barite Powder has emerged as a significant component in clutch facings mixtures and mixes, offering a unique set of advantages and disadvantages.

Barite Powder has a relatively high density, typically around 4.2 – 4.5 g/cm³. This high density is beneficial in clutch facings production. When incorporated into the clutch facings mixture, it can increase the mass of the clutch facings, which is crucial for better energy absorption during the clutch engagement and disengagement processes. For example, in a clutch facings mix with 20% Barite Powder by weight, the energy absorption capacity during a standard clutch operation cycle increased by 15 – 20% compared to a mix without Barite Powder. This enhanced energy absorption helps in reducing the wear and tear on the clutch components, thus extending the overall lifespan of the clutch system.

Barite Powder exhibits decent thermal conductivity. It can effectively transfer heat generated during clutch operation. The thermal conductivity of Barite Powder ranges from 0.5 – 1.0 W/(m·K). In a clutch facings mixture, this property ensures that heat is dissipated more evenly across the clutch facings. In a high – speed driving simulation test, clutch facings with 15% Barite Powder showed a 10 – 15°C lower maximum temperature compared to those without Barite Powder. This better heat dissipation capability helps in preventing thermal degradation of the clutch facings friction materials, maintaining the stability of the friction coefficient, and improving the overall performance of the clutch.

Barite Powder is relatively cost – effective compared to some high – performance materials used in clutch facings production. It is abundant in nature, which contributes to its lower price. While the price may vary depending on the quality and origin, on average, it costs around \(50 – \)100 per ton. In contrast, some specialized ceramic – based additives for clutch facings can cost several thousand dollars per ton. Using Barite Powder in the clutch facings mixture can significantly reduce the production cost without sacrificing too much on performance. A cost – benefit analysis shows that substituting other more expensive materials with Barite Powder in the clutch facings mix can lead to a 10 – 20% reduction in production cost per unit.

Barite Powder has relatively limited mechanical strength. Although it is not directly responsible for the load – bearing structure of the clutch facings, its presence in the mixture can affect the overall mechanical properties to some extent. When the proportion of Barite Powder in the clutch facings mixture exceeds 30% by weight, the tensile strength of the clutch facings may decrease by 10 – 15%. This reduction in mechanical strength can be a concern in applications where the clutch facings need to withstand high mechanical stress, such as in heavy – duty vehicles or high – performance sports cars.

Barite Powder can be slightly abrasive. During the manufacturing process of clutch facings and during the clutch operation, this abrasiveness can cause wear on the processing equipment and other components in the clutch system. In a long – term production process, the use of Barite Powder in the clutch facings mixture led to a 20 – 30% increase in the wear rate of the mixing and molding equipment compared to using non – abrasive additives. In the clutch operation, excessive abrasiveness may also lead to faster wear of the clutch discs and other mating surfaces, reducing the service life of the clutch components.

Barite Powder may contain impurities such as heavy metals. If these impurities are not properly removed during the production process, they can contaminate the clutch facings mixture and pose environmental and safety risks. For example, some Barite Powder sources may contain trace amounts of lead or mercury. In a worst – case scenario, if a clutch facings product with contaminated Barite Powder is used in a vehicle, it could potentially release harmful substances during the clutch wear process, which is not only a concern for the vehicle’s performance but also for environmental pollution and human health.

In summary, Barite Powder offers several advantages in clutch facings production, including high density, good thermal conductivity, and cost – effectiveness. However, its limitations in mechanical strength, abrasiveness, and potential for contamination need to be carefully considered. Manufacturers must conduct thorough research and quality control measures to optimize the use of Barite Powder in clutch facings mixtures and ensure the production of high – quality clutch facings friction materials.