Estimation of friction surface temperature of a dry clutch

This paper presents an approach to estimate the temperature on the friction surface of a dry clutch. The study comprises both experimental measurements and transient thermal numerical analysis of heavy duty truck clutches for the successive engagements on a slope road. Compared to previous mathematical models in the literature; pressure plate surface convection coefficient, energy dissipation, engagement duration and variation of the clutch housing air temperature were obtained on the basis of experimental data and have been applied as input in the 3D clutch transient thermal finite element analysis. Simulation results show that the design of clutch plate has a significant effect on the temperature rise at the friction surface.