Throwout Bearing Definition, Structure and Operating Principle

 Clutch throwout bearing definition and structure

A throwout bearing, also known as a clutch release bearing or throwout bearing, is an important part installed between the clutch and the transmission. Its main structure includes:

- Inner ring: connected with the release fork and moves with the release fork.

- Outer ring: fixed in the clutch housing, in contact with the clutch pressure plate and release lever.

- Rolling body: can be steel balls or rollers, located between the inner ring and outer ring to reduce friction.

 Clutch release bearing working principle

When the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the release fork pushes the release bearing forward. The release bearing reduces the contact surface between the inner and outer rings by rolling its rolling elements between the inner and outer rings, thus reducing friction losses. The release bearing pushes the release lever to separate the clutch pressure plate from the clutch disc, disconnecting the engine from the transmission system and permitting shift operation.

 The main functions of the release bearing

1. Ensure smooth engagement and gentle release:

   - The release bearing enables the release lever to rotate and move axially along the clutch output shaft at the same time, thus ensuring that the clutch engages smoothly and disengages gently. This helps to reduce the wear of the clutch and prolong its service life.

2. Transmission of power:

   - In the clutch system, the release bearing works in conjunction with the clutch pressure plate, release lever and other components to ensure that the power can be smoothly transferred from the engine to the transmission.

3. Reduce energy loss:

   - The use of release bearings reduces rotational resistance and energy loss. In mechanical movement, due to the rotational resistance of the bearing, part of the energy will be converted into heat energy loss. The design of the rolling element of the separation bearing helps to reduce this resistance.

4. Improve mechanical efficiency:

   - The use of split bearings improves mechanical efficiency and reduces power consumption. This helps to improve the overall performance and fuel economy of the vehicle.

 Maintaining the clutch release bearing and precautions

1. Lubrication:

   - The release bearing requires regular lubrication to ensure smooth operation. The selection of grease and method of filling should be based on the specific bearing model and manufacturer's recommendations.

2. Inspection and Replacement:

   - Periodically check the separation bearings for wear and abnormal noise. If the bearings are found to be badly worn or making strange noises, they should be replaced promptly to avoid more serious failures.

3. Avoid overuse:

   - In daily driving, frequent half-clutch operation or prolonged use of the clutch should be avoided to reduce the wear on the release bearing.

 Effects of Release Bearing Failure

When the release bearing fails, it can have a series of adverse effects on the normal operation of the vehicle. The following are some of the situations that may occur:

1. Difficult clutch operation:

   - With a damaged release bearing, the clutch pedal may become heavy or difficult to depress. This is due to the increased frictional resistance of the bearing, causing the pedal to require more force to operate.

2. Incomplete clutch separation:

   - A damaged release bearing may not be able to effectively push the release lever on the clutch pressure plate, preventing the clutch disc from completely separating from the engine flywheel. This can lead to problems such as difficulty in shifting gears and mismatch between engine speed and wheel speed.

3. Strange noises and vibrations:

   - When the release bearing is damaged, it may make rustling, metallic rubbing or other strange noises. These sounds usually indicate that the internal parts of the bearing are damaged or poorly lubricated. Damage to the bearing may also cause the clutch system to vibrate, affecting driving comfort.

4. Wear and tear of the acceleration bearing and other parts of the clutch:

   - If the release bearing is damaged and not replaced in time, its continuous friction and wear may accelerate the damage of other clutch parts (such as pressure plate, clutch disc, etc.). This will lead to more serious failures and higher repair costs.

5. Safety hazard:

   - Failure of the release bearing may prevent the clutch from functioning properly, thus increasing the safety hazard of the vehicle while driving. For example, in an emergency situation, if the driver is unable to shift gears or control the speed of the vehicle quickly, it could lead to an accident.

6. Slipping clutch:

   - As the bearing fails, it may not allow the clutch disc to fully disengage from the flywheel, causing the clutch to slip. This may cause the engine to accelerate without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed.

7. Difficulty in shifting gears:

   - A worn release bearing may not effectively push the pressure plate away from the clutch disc, making shifting more difficult.

8. clutch pedal action:

   - The clutch pedal may have excessive action or a spongy feel when the pedal is depressed.

9. clutch pedal jamming:

   - In some cases, the clutch pedal may stick to the floor when depressed, making it difficult to release.

10. reduced clutch performance:

    - The clutch may not engage or disengage as quickly as it should, resulting in less responsive clutch action.

11. complete clutch failure:

    - In severe cases, a failed release bearing may cause complete clutch failure. This may render the vehicle inoperable as the clutch will no longer function to engage or disengage the transmission from the engine.

 Conclusion.

The release bearing plays a vital role in the clutch system. It not only ensures smooth engagement and gentle disengagement of the clutch, but also transmits power, reduces energy loss and improves mechanical efficiency. Therefore, in the process of use and maintenance, it should be given enough attention and concern. When the release bearing is found to be faulty, it should be stopped and inspected immediately, and repaired or replaced as necessary to ensure the normal driving and safety performance of the vehicle.