Hydraulic clutch vs normal clutch

As an important part of the automotive transmission system, the performance of the clutch directly affects the driving experience and overall performance of the vehicle. In this article, we will introduce the basic concepts, advantages, disadvantages, differences and application scenarios of hydraulic clutches vs normal clutches, and summarise them.

What is a hydraulic clutch?

Hydraulic clutch is a device that uses hydraulic principle to control clutch engagement and disengagement. Its core components include hydraulic pumps, hydraulic lines, and hydraulic motors.

Hydraulic clutches use liquid (usually transmission fluid) as a medium to transfer pressure and achieve clutch engagement and disengagement. When the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the movement of the pedal is amplified by the hydraulic system, pushing the piston in the hydraulic cylinder, which in turn causes the release bearing to push the clutch pressure plate, separating the engine from the transmission. This design allows for smoother clutch operation as the fluid cushions pressure variations.

What is a normal clutch?

Ordinary clutches generally refer to mechanical clutches, which operate by using a clutch pressure disc on a pressure plate to separate and connect the engine to the gearbox by compressing a spring. This type of clutch usually consists of a clutch disc, clutch housing, clutch pressure plate, clutch spring and other components. When the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the mechanical connection directly pushes the pressure disc, which in turn separates the clutch disc and achieves power cut-off.

Advantages and disadvantages of hydraulic clutches

Advantages of hydraulic clutch:

1. Lightweight operation: hydraulic clutches are lighter and more comfortable to operate, with low frictional resistance, and long-term operation will not increase the pedal force significantly.

2. Fast response: hydraulic clutches respond quickly and are suitable for vehicles travelling at high speeds.

3. High adaptability: able to adapt to higher torque transmission, suitable for high-performance vehicles.

Disadvantages of hydraulic clutches:

1. Complex structure: the structure of the hydraulic clutch is relatively complex, high maintenance costs.

2. Susceptible to contamination: hydraulic clutches are susceptible to contamination by hydraulic oil, which may lead to performance degradation.

3. Oil seepage or leakage: Hydraulic clutches are susceptible to oil seepage or leakage and require regular inspection and maintenance.

4. Higher cost: Compared to ordinary clutches, they are more expensive to manufacture and maintain.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Ordinary Clutch

Advantages of mechanical clutches:

1. Simple structure: the structure of ordinary clutches is relatively simple, with fewer parts and lower maintenance cost.

2. Stronger resistance to oil pollution: ordinary clutches are not easily polluted by oil pollution and operate stably.

3. Lower cost: lower production and maintenance costs, suitable for economical vehicles.

4. Direct response: no delay of hydraulic system, fast response speed.

Disadvantages of mechanical clutch:

1. Heavier operation: ordinary clutches are relatively heavy to operate, especially in cases where frequent gear changes are required, and the driver will feel fatigued.

2. Slow response speed: the response speed of ordinary clutches is relatively slow, which is less suitable for high-speed vehicles.

3. Engagement may not be smooth enough: lack of hydraulic cushioning, engagement may have a noticeable stutter.

Hydraulic clutch and ordinary clutch difference

1. Working principle: hydraulic clutch uses hydraulic principle to achieve clutch engagement and disengagement, while the ordinary clutch is through mechanical pressure to achieve clutch engagement and disengagement.

2. Operating Feeling: Hydraulic clutches are light to operate, while ordinary clutches are heavy to operate.

3. Application Scenario: Hydraulic clutches are more suitable for high-speed vehicles, while ordinary clutches are suitable for low-speed driving or occasions that require frequent gear changes.

Clutch Application Scenarios

Hydraulic Clutch:

Suitable for high-speed vehicles, such as high-performance sports cars, cross-country SUVs.

Suitable for occasions requiring frequent gear changes and long periods of driving, such as long-distance transport vehicles.

Heavy Machinery: Also commonly used in heavy trucks and construction machinery due to its ability to withstand high torque.

Ordinary Clutch (Mechanical Clutch):

Suitable for economy cars, commercial MPVs and other vehicles for daily city driving.

Suitable for low-speed driving or occasions that require frequent starting and stopping, such as city buses.

Older models: many classic cars and some motorbikes use mechanical clutches.

Summary

Hydraulic clutches and ordinary clutches each have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Hydraulic clutches are lighter to operate, faster to respond, and more suitable for high-speed vehicles, but have a complex structure, higher maintenance costs, and are susceptible to hydraulic fluid contamination. Ordinary clutches are simple in structure, lower in cost, and more resistant to oil contamination, but heavier in operation, slower in response, and less suitable for high-speed vehicles.

Hydraulic clutches, with their smooth operating experience and ability to adapt to high torque, are more suitable for situations where driving comfort and high performance are sought. Ordinary clutches, on the other hand, are preferred for economical and conventional vehicles due to their simplicity and low cost. In different application scenarios, both can fulfil their unique advantages and meet the needs of different users. Which type to choose depends on the vehicle's performance needs, cost budget, and driver preference for the best driving experience and performance.