Definition

Noun: A mechanical device that engages and disengages the transmission of power, specifically rotational motion, from one shaft to another. This is achieved by using friction between two surfaces—one connected to the driving shaft and one to the driven shaft—when they are pressed together.

Usage

A friction clutch is a core component in many machines, most commonly in manual transmission vehicles. It allows the driver to smoothly connect the engine's power to the wheels and to change gears by temporarily interrupting that connection.

Examples

• The car stalled because the driver released the friction clutch too quickly.
• Mechanics had to replace the worn-out plates inside the friction clutch.
• The design of a friction clutch relies on the coefficient of friction between its disc and pressure plate.

Advanced Usage

• "To engage/disengage the friction clutch": This describes the action of connecting or separating the clutch plates to transmit or halt power.
  • You must fully disengage the friction clutch before shifting gears.
• "Friction clutch assembly": Refers to the complete set of components that make up the clutch system.
  • The entire friction clutch assembly was removed for servicing.

Variants and Related Words

• Clutch (noun): The general term for the device. "Friction clutch" is the most common specific type.
• Clutch disc/plate (noun): The main rotating disc in a friction clutch that is lined with a frictional material.
• Clutch pedal (noun): The foot-operated lever in a vehicle that controls the engagement of the friction clutch.

Synonyms

• Coupling (noun): A more general engineering term for a device that connects two shafts, which may or may not use friction.
• Mechanical clutch (noun): A broader term that distinguishes it from hydraulic or electromagnetic clutches.

Related Phrases

• "Slipping the clutch": A driving action where the friction clutch is partially engaged, causing the plates to rub against each other with excessive slip, leading to wear and heat.
  • Avoid slipping the clutch on a hill start to prevent damage.
• "Burned-out clutch": A condition where the friction material on the clutch disc is worn away or glazed due to overheating from excessive slippage.
  • Aggressive driving can lead to a burned-out clutch.

Noun

1. a clutch in which one part turns the other by the friction between them