The accurate calculation of the frictional heat generated between the contacting surfaces of friction clutch elements during the slipping period due to the relative motion between the driving and driven parts is considered to be an essential factor for automotive designers. A numerical model of a single-disc clutch was built using the finite element method to investigate the effect of frictional facing thickness on the heat generation and distribution between the contacting surfaces of the flywheel, friction clutch disc and pressure plate. A sequentially coupled thermal-mechanical approach was used to simulate the thermal-elastic coupling that occurs in dry friction clutches during the slipping period. An axisymmetric finite element model was used to represent the single-disc clutch system at the start of the engagement. The results approved that frictional facing thickness has a significant effect on the distribution of the frictional heat generated and the actual contact area of friction clutches.
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