Abstract
This paper describes two distinct types of centrifugal clutch used for automotive transmission. Pivoted or expanding shoe clutches, although more commonly used in industrial applications, have been successfully applied in road vehicles. Two designs are described, one of which is used in conjunction with a hydrokinetic coupling to prevent slip and increase efficiency once the drive has been taken up. Dry plate clutches have been most favoured because they can combine the function of automatic take-up with the ability to be disengaged when required to change gear, independent of the speed of rotation. Calculations are given in Appendix 3.1 for one of five different designs considered. Design features are discussed and a typical clutch performance is shown related to the associated engine torque curve. The advantages and disadvantages of centrifugal clutches are outlined.
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