Modeling and Reduction of Centrifuging in Magnetorheological (MR) Transmission Clutches for Automotive Applications

Conventional shear mode transmission clutches using magnetorheological fluids (MRFs) can be either disc-shaped or cylindrical. The major drawbacks of these devices include the effect of centrifuging at high rotational speeds and the subsequent sealing problems associated with it. This study develops models aimed at describing centrifuging and mitigates this issue by developing a MR clutch design where the fluid is encapsulated in a highly absorbent polyurethane foam.