The operating principle of an automatic transmission with a torque converter
A torque converter automatic transmission uses hydraulic fluid (or oil) to transfer torque from the engine to the transmission. Here’s how it works:
1. The engine drives an oil pump, which creates hydraulic fluid pressure.
2. The torque converter consists of three main components:
– Pump wheel: Attached to the motor and rotated by it.
– Turbine wheel: Attached to the gearbox shaft.
– Stator wheel: Located between the pump and turbine wheels.
3. Hydraulic fluid is directed from the pump wheel to the turbine wheel.
4. The turbine wheel rotates under the influence of fluid force, transmitting torque to the gearbox shaft.
5. The stator wheel helps circulate fluids and increase torque by converting fluid energy into additional power.
6. The hydraulic valve controls the fluid flow in the torque converter. It changes the gear ratio and shifts gears depending on the load and speed of the vehicle.
Features of the automatic transmission
* Smooth Shifting: The torque converter ensures smooth shifting by absorbing shock and vibration.
* Adaptability: The hydraulic valve adapts to different driving conditions, automatically changing gears according to the vehicle’s needs.
* Clutch: The torque converter acts as a kind of friction clutch, allowing the engine to disengage from the transmission when the vehicle is idling or coasting.
* Cooling: Hydraulic fluid also serves to cool the transmission by removing heat from moving parts.