What components does a clutch plate consist of?

The clutch plate is the core component of the automobile clutch. For car owners or drivers, understanding its composition can help improve driving habits and extend the life of the clutch.

The clutch plate mainly consists of the following parts:

Clutch Lining（Clutch (Friction) Facing/Disc Facing-(US)）

This is the main part of the clutch plate, including different kinds of friction materials, such as Cormac, Guanliang, composite yarn, semi-copper, aramid, asbestos-free, copper-based sheets, etc. Their main components include skeleton (yarn, cloth, other fiber materials or metal wires), friction property modifier (filler), binder (resin, rubber) and dye. Different materials and qualities affect their durability and price.

Copper substrate: It is easy to identify in appearance. It is generally made into a multi-piece style, not an ordinary annular friction plate. It is characterized by absolute wear resistance and high temperature resistance, but the price is higher. In addition, the strength of the clutch pressure plate is also required. It is easy to wear the pressure plate when used on a weak clutch pressure plate, so it is not recommended to use an all-copper-based clutch plate without replacing the clutch pressure plate.

driven plate body

The clutch disc contains a torsion damping driven plate, which plays a buffering role through a compression spring to reduce the impact when the clutch is engaged. Some clutch plates do not have a spring-damped driven plate. These are usually used on agricultural vehicles or modified vehicles.

Damping spring

These springs act as a cushion when the clutch is engaged. Different clutch plates use different numbers and types of springs, which affects cushioning strength and feel when driving.

driven hub

This is a toothed component that transmits power to the transmission through a shaft.

Understanding these components can help you better maintain your clutch plates and extend their service life. Avoiding half-clutch driving and improper shifting habits can have a significant impact on clutch plate life. Also, regular inspections and proper maintenance are key.