Hydraulic throwout bearings are a key component of automotive clutch systems, which are gradually replacing traditional mechanical release bearings in modern vehicles. These bearings are designed to utilise hydraulics to control the clutch release and engagement process, providing a smoother and more reliable clutch operating experience. Here is more information about Hydraulic throwout bearings:

Hydraulic throwout bearings working principle:

Hydraulic throwout bearings transmit pressure through a hydraulic system, usually a combination of a clutch master cylinder and a distributor pump. When the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the hydraulic system builds up pressure that pushes the throwout bearing, which in turn releases the clutch pressure plate, permitting power to be separated between the engine and the transmission to allow for gear changes. Compared to mechanical release bearings, the hydraulic system is able to apply force more evenly, reducing shock and wear during operation.

Hydraulic throwout bearings are a special type of bearing that utilises fluid dynamics to suspend and support the shaft, thereby reducing friction and wear. These bearings are designed for high precision and high speed applications, especially where very low friction and high stability are required.

How do hydraulic throwout bearings work:

1. Fluid dynamics: In hydraulic throwout bearings, as the shaft rotates, it drives a high-speed flow of fluid (usually oil) around it. This flow creates a pressure field in the gap between the shaft and the bearing, forming a film of fluid. This film is generated due to the hydrodynamic effect (i.e., the ‘throw’ effect), and is capable of completely suspending the shaft, allowing for contactless rotation.

2. Pressure generation: The high speed rotation of the shaft creates a dynamic pressure distribution around the shaft, which is sufficient to support the weight and load of the shaft, avoiding hard contact and reducing frictional losses.

3. Adaptability: Hydraulic throwaway bearings are able to automatically adjust the thickness of the fluid film according to the load and speed of the shaft, ensuring proper lubrication and support at all times, which allows it to maintain efficient operation under changing operating conditions.

4. Lubrication and cooling: At the same time, the flowing liquid also plays a cooling role, taking away the heat generated by high-speed rotation, to ensure that the temperature of the bearings is stable and prolong the service life.

Advantages of Hydraulic throwout bearings

1. Integration: Hydraulic throwout bearings integrate the functions of the clutch splitter pump, mechanical fork and traditional release bearing, simplifying the clutch system and reducing the number of components.

2. Space-optimised: the compact design is suited to the space-efficient requirements of modern vehicles.

3. Smooth operation: thanks to the precise control of the hydraulic system, the clutch engages and disengages more smoothly, improving driving comfort.

4. Reliability and longevity: the hydraulic system reduces physical wear and improves overall reliability and bearing life.

5. Adaptability: Automatically adapts to changes in position caused by clutch disc wear, maintaining stable performance.

Hydraulic throwout bearings applications

Hydraulic throwout bearings are widely used in a wide range of modern vehicles, especially those seeking high performance and driving comfort. They have been designed with the trend towards miniaturisation and lightweighting in mind, while ensuring high performance even under high stress conditions.

Conclusion

Hydraulic throwout bearings represent an advancement in clutch technology, and by increasing the precision of operation and reducing the need for maintenance, they have become a standard feature of many modern vehicles. As technology continues to advance, the use of Hydraulic throwout bearings will become even more prevalent, becoming an important factor in enhancing vehicle performance and the driving experience.