The Russian market clutch assembly bearing plays a vital role in the operation of a vehicle clutch system. It allows the clutch pressure plate and clutch disc to rotate smoothly and transmit torque efficiently. Selecting the right clutch assembly bearing can improve clutch performance, prolong clutch life and reduce friction.
What Is A Clutch Assembly Bearing?
- The clutch assembly bearing sits between the clutch pressure plate and clutch disc in an automobile. Its main functions are to:
- Allow rotation – The bearing enables the clutch parts to rotate freely relative to each other during clutch engagement and disengagement.
- Transmit torque – The bearing transmits torque from the flywheel to the transmission input shaft when the clutch is engaged.
- Reduce wear – The bearing’s rolling elements reduce friction and wear between the rotating clutch parts compared to a bushing or plain bearing.
- Absorb vibrations -The bearing’s design helps absorb vibrations and impact forces that occur during clutch operation.
Types Of Clutch Assembly Bearings
- Ball bearings – These use ball shaped rolling elements to provide rotation and torque transmission. Ball bearings are commonly used in automotive clutch assemblies due to their lower cost.
- Needle roller bearings -These contain cylindrical rollers as the rolling elements. Needle roller bearings offer higher load capacity, lower friction and smoother rotation compared to ball bearings. They are typically used for performance clutch applications.
Factors To Consider When Selecting Clutch Assembly Bearings
When selecting a clutch assembly bearing, factors to consider include:
- Load handling capacity: The bearing must be able to withstand the forces generated during clutch engagement and torque transmission between the clutch parts.
- Dimensions: The inner and outer diameter of the bearing must match the dimensions of the clutch parts it will be installed between.
- Width: The bearing width or thickness should provide appropriate clearance between the clutch pressure plate and clutch disc.
- Permissible speed: For higher clutch RPMs, bearings with higher permissible surface speeds are required to prevent premature wear.
- Material: While steel bearings are most common, some high-performance clutches use ceramic bearings to reduce friction.
- Sealing: Sealed bearings should be used to prevent contaminants from damaging the bearing and causing premature failure.
