Automatic Transmissions Gain Popularity Due to New Torque Convertor Systems

When compared to manual transmissions, automatic transmissions are becoming more popular thanks to the use of new torque convertor systems which can make a significant difference when it comes to emissions and fuel economy. With the use of this technology, the new user-friendly automatic transmissions are setting new standards when it comes to efficiency. Schaeffler has emerged as one of the leading companies in this field with its iTC or integrated torque converter that is lighter and minimizes vibrations. One of the most important characteristics of the iTC is a lock-up clutch that has been integrated into the torque converter turbine. In addition to making the system lighter, it frees up space to accommodate more efficient torsion dampers, like the centrifugal pendulum-type absorber that Schaeffler developed.

Uwe Wagner, Vice President Research and Development Automotive at Schaeffler said that a damper with a centrifugal pendulum-type absorber in the torque converter significantly improves the isolation of vibrations and this allows the lock-up clutch to be closed at an earlier stage, leading to better fuel economy and a higher level of comfort. Most of the torque convertors that are used in automatic transmissions in the near future are likely to include a centrifugal pendulum-type absorber.

When compared to conventional torque converters, iTC needs fewer components. There is also no need for an axial bearing between the turbine and the stator as the entire axial force of the turbine is transferred through the friction surface. The number of individual elements needed to apply torque to the torsion damper and the integration of the piston into the turbine is also less, making the design lighter and enhancing the effectiveness of the torsion dampers.

Custom-made for modern turbocharged engines

The mTC (multi-functional torque converter) is the perfect fit for start-stop systems and can compensate for delayed response behavior, the so-called “turbo lag”. Using a multi-functional torque converter can also result in fuel savings of up to five percent due to the optional idle disconnect function and early torque converter lockup. The mTC does away with the torque converter idling losses that used to occur previously, as now the transmission can be decoupled from the engine. This structure also facilitates the mass moments of inertia to be distributed in a better manner, leading to significantly better isolation of vibrations in all operating ranges. As the engine decouples, it achieves higher starting speeds at the very moment when the torque converter is activated.

Schaeffler’s Expertise in Torque Convertors

Schaeffler’s LuK brand first began making torque converters in Bühl in 1990. Schaeffler further strengthened its position in the US market by setting up its very own facility for the development and manufacture of torque convertors in Wooster, Ohio in 1998. Currently, this center has taken on the role of a competence center in Schaeffler`s global development network.

Schaeffler also began production of torque convertors in April 2014 at its plant in Taicang, China, where its one-millionth torque converter recently came off the production line. No other company has developed a torque converter project in the world so quickly in such a short span of time.