The structure of the automatic transmission torque converter
A torque converter is a hydraulic device that transmits torque from the engine to the transmission. It serves to convert torque and smooth power transmission.
Main components of the torque converter:
* Housing: Steel or aluminum housing that contains all components.
* Pump wheel: Attached to the engine shaft and designed to drive transmission fluid.
* Reactor wheel: Placed between the pump and turbine wheels and made of curved blades.
* Turbine wheel: Connected to the output shaft and connected to the gearbox. It receives torque from the pump wheel through the transmission fluid.
* Stator: The stationary component installed inside the housing that directs the flow of fluid.
*Transmission Fluid: Hydraulic fluid that transfers power between components and provides lubrication.
Operating principle
1. Torque Generation: When the engine is running, the pump wheel rotates, forcing transmission fluid to flow through its vanes. The fluid transmits torque to the turbine wheel, which rotates with it.
2. Torque multiplication: The reaction wheel directs the fluid flow back to the pump wheel, creating additional torque. This results in a multiplication of the torque transmitted to the turbine wheel.
3. Torque Conversion: As the engine speed increases, the speed of the transmission fluid also increases. As speed increases, the reactor wheel becomes less efficient in directing fluid flow to the pump wheel. This results in reduced torque multiplication.
4. Torque Converter Lockup: When a certain speed is reached, the torque converter lockup clutch engages, connecting the pump and turbine wheels directly. This results in a loss of torque multiplication, but increases transmission efficiency.