Clutch Shudder Correlated to ATF Degradation through Local Friction vs. Velocity Measurements by a Scanning Force Microscope

Shudder in continuously slipping wet clutch (CSWC) systems is an instability that manifests itself as a vibration of the automobile's drive train. Dynamometer experiments imply that the shudder is connected to degradation of the frictional properties of the clutch friction material-automatic transmission fluid (ATF) system. The poor friction characteristics are revealed in negatively sloped torque vs. slip-speed curves which can result in dynamic friction oscillation instabilities. The authors report local measurements of friction vs. velocity with the use of a scanning force microscope (SFM) on new and glazed wet clutch friction material with either new or degraded ATF acting as a lubricant. The friction material was a commonly used cellulose/phenolic resin material. Results in the very low-speed dynamic regime indicate that the fluid condition plays a critical role in determining the slope characteristics of the friction vs. velocity curve. ATF degraded in service imparts a flat or negative slope to the...