Some Definitions
Plate is one of those words that is difficult to totally define out of context. Most dictionaries give at least seven different definitions to the word. Out of context, most people will think of the platter from which we eat our food – which is usually circular in shape. But, move into a shipyard and workers there are more likely to think of large rectangular pieces of flat steel that they use to make the hull of a ship.
However, if you go to any automobile workshop the people there will keep to the circular plate but they will be thinking of a disk type piece of (usually) metal that is a component of an automobile –usually in the powertrain. A clutch plate is one of the earliest examples of usage in this way.
Friction is much easier to place. The dictionary only gives two definitions, and both have an obvious relationship. The full meaning derives from the Latin “frictio” – to rub. Today, friction is used to describe the resistance encountered when moving one surface against another. The related meaning is disagreement or conflict.
From the above, a friction plate describes anything like the main part of a clutch assembly. It is the nature of automobile engine and transmission designs that these plates will be circular. Braking systems also rely on friction but, for reasons relating to shape, we normally describe the friction element as a “pad” (or, on older vehicles a “shoe”).
Clutches
All clutches have a common feature; one side is directly connected to the engine or motor, and the other side is the start of the transmission system. When this connection is formed by holding two metal disks (plates) in tight contact with each other, some of the drive power will be transmitted to the driven side, but there will be big losses as one slips against the other (this will also generate a lot of unwanted heat). Something is needed to bring the two sides together in better contact. This is achieved by placing a material with a high coefficient of friction between them. This could be a third “plate” or, the fiction material can be bonded to one of the plates.
Friction Plate Purchases
OEM’s (vehicle or plant manufacturers) do not usually make their own clutches and will buy them in from a specialist in this type of work. Usually, they will purchase full functional assemblies as against individual components for them to assemble themselves. Repair, rebuild or modification shops will be seeking spare or replacement upgrade parts and are most likely to be needing friction plate suppliers.
Raybestos Powertrain, LLC is descended from one of the pioneering companies in the field of friction materials. This makes them one of the world’s leading friction plate suppliers.
