CLUTCH FRICTION MATERIALS

Clutch Facings Steel Wool

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    The Application of Steel Wool in Clutch Facings Production

    In the production of clutch facings, Steel Wool has emerged as a significant component within clutch facings friction materials. When integrated into clutch facings mixtures and clutch facings mixes, it exerts a notable influence on the overall performance of the final clutch facings.

    I. Function in Clutch Facings Production

    Steel Wool is typically added to the clutch facings mixture at a proportion of 10% – 25% by weight. Its fine, fibrous structure and high – iron content endow it with unique properties that contribute to the clutch facings’ performance. It serves as a reinforcement material, enhancing the mechanical strength and friction characteristics of the clutch facings.

    II. Advantages

    A. High Friction Performance

    1. Friction Coefficient
      • Clutch facings with 15% Steel Wool content demonstrate excellent friction performance. In a standardized friction – coefficient test, the samples had a friction coefficient of 0.3 – 0.4 under normal operating conditions. This is approximately 15% – 25% higher than clutch facings without Steel Wool, which typically have a friction coefficient of 0.25 – 0.32. The increased friction coefficient ensures reliable clutch engagement and disengagement, reducing the likelihood of slippage and providing a more stable driving experience.
    1. Fade Resistance
      • Steel Wool – enhanced clutch facings exhibit 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 8% – 12%. In contrast, non – Steel Wool – containing clutch facings can experience a friction – coefficient drop of 20% – 30%. This fade – resistance property is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of the clutch during heavy – duty operations, such as in commercial vehicles or high – performance sports cars.

    B. High Mechanical Strength

    1. Tensile Strength
      • The addition of Steel Wool significantly improves the tensile strength of clutch facings. Clutch facings with Steel Wool have a tensile strength of 12 – 15 MPa, which is 30% – 50% higher than clutch facings without it (tensile strength of 9 – 10 MPa). This increased tensile strength allows the clutch facings to better withstand the mechanical stresses generated during clutch operation, reducing the risk of breakage and extending their service life.
    1. Compressive Strength
      • Steel Wool also enhances the compressive strength of clutch facings. Clutch facings with Steel Wool can withstand a compressive stress of up to 70 – 90 MPa, while those without it can only endure 50 – 60 MPa. This improvement in compressive strength is essential as the clutch facings are often subjected to high – pressure forces during engagement.

    C. Good Thermal Conductivity

    1. Heat Dissipation
      • Steel Wool contributes to the enhanced thermal conductivity of clutch facings. Clutch facings with 20% Steel Wool have a thermal conductivity of 1.2 – 1.5 W/(m·K), which is 40% – 60% higher than those without it (thermal conductivity of 0.8 – 1.0 W/(m·K)). This improved thermal conductivity enables efficient heat dissipation during clutch operation. In a real – world test, the temperature of the clutch facings with Steel Wool was 10 – 15°C lower than that of the non – Steel Wool – containing ones under the same high – load conditions, effectively preventing overheating and performance degradation.

    III. Disadvantages

    A. Rust Susceptibility

    1. Corrosion Risk
      • Steel Wool is highly susceptible to rust in the presence of oxygen and moisture. In a humidity – accelerated corrosion test, after being exposed to a high – humidity environment (75% relative humidity) for 72 hours, the Steel Wool in the clutch facings showed visible signs of rust. This rusting can lead to a decrease in the mechanical strength and friction performance of the clutch facings over time. The tensile strength of the rusted clutch facings decreased by about 15% – 20%, and the friction coefficient dropped by 10% – 15%.
    1. Anti – Corrosion Measures
      • To prevent rusting, additional anti – corrosion measures are required. This may include applying protective coatings or using rust – inhibiting additives in the clutch facings mixture. However, these measures add to the production cost and complexity.

    B. High Density

    1. Increased Weight
      • Steel Wool has a relatively high density, which can increase the overall weight of the clutch facings. Clutch facings with 20% Steel Wool are 10% – 15% 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 electric vehicles or lightweight sports cars.
    In conclusion, Steel Wool offers significant advantages in enhancing the performance of clutch facings, including high friction performance, high mechanical strength, and good thermal conductivity. However, its susceptibility to rust and high density pose challenges that need to be addressed. With proper anti – corrosion measures and careful consideration of weight – related issues, Steel Wool can continue to play a valuable role in the production of high – quality clutch facings friction materials.