Influence of the clutch engagement/disengagement to the friction lining lifetime in exploitation and laboratory conditions

In most motor vehicles the transfer of torque from engine to the transmission is done through friction clutch. The process of clutch engagement is characterized with intensive sliding between the friction surfaces until angular speeds of the drive and the driven parts become equal. Friction lining lifetime significantly depends on operating conditions which are expressed through total cumulative sliding work as a result of clutch engagement number in certain traffic and exploitation conditions. From obvious reasons (time, cost, durability, etc.) constantly, it is endeavored most of the tests to be carried out in laboratory conditions. Although laboratory test methodologies are continually improved and in certain cases even standardized, structure differences in the individual clutches especially related friction material composition, leave this issue constantly opened. Starting from the statement above, the aim of the research is to show the process of establishing interdependence of friction lining wear and number of clutch engagement in exploitation and laboratory conditions. Taking laboratory testing advantages, the aim is also to develop such procedures which can be the basis for forecasting its lifetime