Yes, a clutch release bearing and throwout bearing are different names for the same component. They are both key components in a car's manual transmission system, which in automotive engineering is responsible for separating the engine from the driveline during clutch operation, allowing gear shifts to take place. Whether it is called the ‘clutch release bearing’ or the ‘throwout bearing’, it is located in the clutch mechanism and is hydraulically or mechanically pushed into contact with a pressure plate when the driver depresses the clutch pedal. When the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the clutch disc is hydraulically or mechanically pushed into contact with a pressure plate, which causes the clutch disc to disengage from the engine flywheel, thus interrupting the transfer of power. As such, the two terms are used interchangeably to refer to this key component that is integral to manual transmission vehicles.

It is therefore clear that the clutch release bearing and the so-called ‘throwout bearing’ (if that is another way of referring to the clutch release bearing) are one and the same. Their function, principle of operation and mounting position are the same.

The operating principle of the release bearing:

The working principle of the release bearing is to realise the separation and engagement of the clutch through a series of mechanical linkages, thus controlling the transmission of engine power to the drive system. The following is a detailed explanation:

1. Location and connection: The release bearing is installed between the clutch and the transmission, it is close to the rear of the clutch pressure plate and is connected to the clutch pedal through the release fork or hydraulic system. The inner ring of the bearing is connected to a push mechanism (e.g. the release fork), while the outer ring is in contact with the release lever of the clutch pressure plate.

2. Power release process: When the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the release bearing is pushed against the clutch pressure plate by a series of levers or hydraulics. This action overcomes the spring force on the pressure plate and moves the pressure plate backwards, which in turn reduces the pressure on the driven disc (friction disc), permitting the engine speed to be disconnected from the transmission to provide conditions for shifting or starting.

3. Self-aligning and lubrication: In modern designs, the release bearings may be constructed with self-aligning construction to ensure even forces and reduced wear even when not perfectly concentric. At the same time, some bearings are fully sealed and filled with high-temperature grease to reduce wear and noise during high-speed rotation and extend service life.

4. Return and clearance: When the clutch pedal is released, the release bearing is returned to its original position by the return spring and maintains a certain clearance with the release lever to ensure that it will not overheat or be damaged due to friction when not in operation.

5. Reduction of direct friction: the existence of release bearing avoids the mechanical friction of the clutch pedal directly driving the pressure plate, and replaces the sliding friction by rolling friction, which reduces the operating force and protects the whole clutch system.

6. Power engagement: when the release bearing no longer applies pressure, the pressure disc re-pressures the friction disc, and the engine power is once again transferred to the transmission through the flywheel, completing the power engagement process.

The design and working principle of the release bearing ensure that the clutch can be smoothly disengaged and engaged, which is an indispensable component in manual transmission vehicles, and is crucial for driving comfort and vehicle reliability.

Clutch release bearing main function:

The clutch release bearing plays a key role in the clutch system of a vehicle, and its main functions include:

1. Achieving clutch disengagement: When the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the release bearing (also known as the release bearing or throwout bearing) is pushed, which is located between the clutch pressure plate and the first shaft of the transmission. This action moves the pressure plate backwards, which in turn reduces the pressure on the clutch friction discs, permitting the engine speed to be disengaged from the transmission and providing for gear changes.

2. Smooth engagement and disengagement: The smooth movement of the release bearing ensures that the clutch engages smoothly, avoiding shocks that might be caused by a hard connection, protecting the driveline from damage, and also reducing the feeling of stuttering during driving.

3. Reduced Wear: By precisely controlling the clutch disengagement process, the release bearing helps to reduce unnecessary wear and tear on the clutch disc and other related parts, extending the service life of the entire clutch system.

4. Power transmission control: During the disengagement process, the release bearing ensures that the interruption of power transmission is immediate and controlled, which is crucial for vehicle handling and safety.

5. Leverage: The release bearing acts as part of the lever that converts the driver's force on the clutch pedal into a release force on the clutch pressure plate, either through the release fork or the hydraulic system.

The clutch release bearing is a key component to ensure that the manual transmission vehicle can effectively shift gears and operate smoothly, and its normal operation is vital to the vehicle's transmission system.

Summary:

Clutch release bearings, also known as release bearings or throwout bearings, are usually installed between the clutch and the transmission. When the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the clutch master cylinder generates hydraulic pressure that pushes the clutch splitter pump, which in turn moves the release bearing forward. The release bearing compresses the diaphragm spring behind the clutch pressure plate, reducing the contact pressure between the pressure plate and the clutch disc, thus disengaging the clutch. As a result, engine power is disconnected from the transmission, allowing the driver to perform a gear shift.

As for the life of the clutch release bearing, it is affected by a number of factors, including driving conditions, vehicle maintenance and the manufacturing quality of the bearing itself. In order to extend its service life, vehicle owners should carry out regular vehicle maintenance, such as lubricating the bearing, checking and adjusting the relevant parts. Meanwhile, during driving, bad operating habits such as half-pressing the clutch pedal for a long period of time should be avoided to reduce wear and tear on the bearings.