The Application of Spongy Iron Powder in Clutch Facings Production
In the manufacturing of clutch facings, Spongy Iron Powder has become a notable ingredient in clutch facings friction materials. When integrated into clutch facings mixtures and clutch facings mixes, it exerts a significant influence on the performance characteristics of the final clutch facings products.
I. Function in Clutch Facings Production
Spongy Iron Powder is usually added to the clutch facings mixture at a weight percentage ranging from 20% – 40%. Its porous structure and high iron content endow it with unique properties that are beneficial for clutch facings. It serves as a crucial component to enhance the friction performance, thermal conductivity, and mechanical strength of the clutch facings.
II. Advantages
A. High Friction Performance
- Friction Coefficient
- Clutch facings with 30% Spongy Iron Powder exhibit an excellent friction coefficient. In a standardized friction – coefficient test, the samples with this composition had a friction coefficient of 0.35 – 0.45 under normal operating conditions, which is 20% – 30% higher than clutch facings without Spongy Iron Powder (friction coefficient of 0.27 – 0.35). This higher friction coefficient ensures reliable clutch engagement and disengagement, preventing slips and providing a stable driving experience.
- Fade Resistance
- Spongy Iron Powder – enhanced clutch facings also show remarkable fade resistance. When subjected to high – speed and high – load conditions for an extended period, the friction coefficient of these clutch facings only decreases by about 10% – 15%, while that of non – Spongy Iron Powder – containing clutch facings can drop by 25% – 35%. This fade – resistance property is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of the clutch during heavy – duty operations.
B. Good Thermal Conductivity
- Heat Dissipation
- The thermal conductivity of clutch facings with Spongy Iron Powder is significantly improved. Clutch facings with 25% Spongy Iron Powder have a thermal conductivity of 1.5 – 2.0 W/(m·K), which is 50% – 80% higher than those without it (thermal conductivity of 1.0 – 1.2 W/(m·K)). This enhanced thermal conductivity allows for efficient heat dissipation during clutch operation. In a real – world test, the temperature of the clutch facings with Spongy Iron Powder was 15 – 20°C lower than that of the non – Spongy Iron Powder – containing ones under the same high – load conditions, effectively preventing overheating and performance degradation.
C. Reinforcement of Mechanical Strength
- Tensile Strength
- Spongy Iron Powder contributes to the reinforcement of the mechanical strength of clutch facings. Clutch facings with Spongy Iron Powder have a tensile strength of 15 – 18 MPa, which is 25% – 40% higher than clutch facings without it (tensile strength of 12 – 13 MPa). This increased tensile strength enables the clutch facings to better withstand the mechanical stresses during clutch operation, reducing the risk of breakage.
- Compressive Strength
- The compressive strength of clutch facings is also enhanced. Clutch facings with Spongy Iron Powder can withstand a compressive stress of up to 80 – 100 MPa, while those without it can only endure 60 – 70 MPa. This improvement in compressive strength is essential as the clutch facings are often subject to high – pressure forces during engagement.
III. Disadvantages
A. Oxidation Susceptibility
- Corrosion Risk
- Spongy Iron Powder is prone to oxidation in the presence of oxygen and moisture. In a humidity – accelerated oxidation test, after being exposed to a high – humidity environment (80% relative humidity) for 100 hours, the Spongy Iron Powder in the clutch facings showed signs of significant oxidation. This oxidation can lead to a decrease in the mechanical strength and friction performance of the clutch facings over time. The tensile strength of the oxidized clutch facings decreased by about 15% – 20%, and the friction coefficient dropped by 10% – 15%.
- Storage Requirements
- Due to its oxidation susceptibility, Spongy Iron Powder requires special storage conditions. It needs to be stored in a dry and oxygen – free environment, which increases the storage cost and complexity. If not stored properly, the quality of the Spongy Iron Powder can be severely affected, and ultimately, the performance of the clutch facings produced with it.
B. High Density
- Increased Weight
- Spongy Iron Powder has a relatively high density. When used in clutch facings production, it can increase the overall weight of the clutch facings. For example, clutch facings with 35% Spongy Iron Powder are 15% – 20% heavier than those without it. This increased weight may have a negative impact on the fuel efficiency of the vehicle, especially in applications where weight reduction is crucial, such as in high – performance sports cars or electric vehicles.
In conclusion, Spongy Iron Powder offers distinct advantages in enhancing the performance of clutch facings, including high friction performance, good thermal conductivity, and improved mechanical strength. However, its susceptibility to oxidation and high density pose challenges that need to be addressed. With proper anti – oxidation measures and careful consideration of weight – related issues, Spongy Iron Powder can continue to play a significant role in the production of high – quality clutch facings friction materials.

