Abstract
Abstract
A hydraulic clutch used for Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) drives provides a flexibility in adapting its characteristic to the requirements of the typical application. In comparison to a mechanical clutch, the hydrodynamic clutch is able to engage dynamically both unloaded and loaded. In particular, the dynamic engagement can be varied very easily by controlling the oil flow into the clutch.
This paper describes the general function of the APU system and explains the advantages of the hydrodynamic clutch with respect to the system requirements. The clutch working principle and its design for the special application are presented. Measurement results illustrate the clutch performance in engaged and disengaged mode. The optimization of the APU starting procedure, which benefits significantly from the smooth clutch behaviour, is explained in detail.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.