Definition

Noun: A fluid flywheel is a type of fluid coupling where the flywheel itself acts as the driving rotor. It transmits torque from an engine to a transmission using a hydraulic fluid, allowing for smooth engagement and slip.

Usage

The term fluid flywheel is used specifically in mechanical and automotive engineering contexts to describe a particular power transmission component. - It functions as a coupling between an engine and a gearbox. - It is often discussed in relation to vintage or specific automotive designs.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• Technical Operation: The fluid flywheel operates by using the inertia of a rotating fluid to transfer rotational force, providing damping against torsional vibrations.
• Historical Context: The fluid flywheel was a notable feature in some early automatic and semi-automatic transmissions.

Variants and Related Words

• Fluid coupling (n): A broader category of device for transmitting rotating mechanical power using hydraulic fluid. A fluid flywheel is a specific type of fluid coupling.
• Torque converter (n): A more advanced type of fluid coupling that can multiply torque, unlike a basic fluid flywheel.

Synonyms

• Hydraulic flywheel (less common)

Notes on Meaning

This is a technical compound noun. Its meaning is precise and refers to the integrated unit where the flywheel and fluid coupling are combined into a single driving component, as per the reference definition.

Noun

1. a kind of fluid coupling in which the flywheel is the driving rotor