A new torque converter will soon appear in those models equipped with a small model engine and an automatic transmission. Compared to the older models, the new torque converter is not only smaller in size but also lower in weight, but it also has increased Important features.

Jeff Hemphill, chief technology officer of Schaeffler's North American headquarters, said that the trend of reducing the size of auto parts has prompted them to develop three-cylinder engine technology, but the engine will produce abnormally violent vibration when it comes to outputting power. At the company’s recent technology seminar in Detroit, Hemphill’s R&D team introduced the LuKiTC integrated torque converter in detail. This simplified design incorporating the damper helps to effectively control engine vibration, resulting in a small engine that reduces fuel consumption. More practical value.


iTC integrated torque converter sectional view, showing integrated piston and additional damper The new iTC integrated torque converter cancels the 3 to 4 mm thick piston disc used by Schaeffler's previous products, so engineers need to provide the functionality of the piston plate. Integration into the turbocharger results in a thicker turbocharger. For decades torque converters consist of two components, but Schaeffler has reduced to one. Another benefit of eliminating the piston plate is its reduced weight. The iTC integrated torque converter's mass is 10.7 kilograms, which is 2.4 kilograms less than the previous product's 13.1 kilograms. Taking into account the deletion of a 3 to 4 mm thick component and the gap between the original component, the torque converter can be reduced by 5 to 6 mm in the axial space.

LukiTC multi-purpose torque converter and impeller clutch can ensure the stability of the engine at higher speeds. Because the impeller is not directly connected with the engine, the engine can provide more powerful torque in a shorter time; if applied to a turbocharged engine, it can also help reduce the turbo lag effect. The iTC torque converter ensures that impeller clutches can be applied smoothly without the need for large-scale adjustments, thanks to the ability of the impeller clutch to be integrated into the turbine clutch. In addition to the two standard pressure channels, there is a third channel from the back of the impeller clutch to the oil pan.

The latest US fuel economy regulations will come into effect in 2025. As the date approaches, the improvement of fuel economy has become a priority for the entire industry. The iTC integrated torque converter improves fuel efficiency in many ways. First, the reduced weight helps to reduce fuel consumption. In addition, a larger damper is installed inside the torque converter to allow the power system to run more efficiently.

The iTC integrated torque converter is likely to be used in new models for the first time in 2017. Now, Schaeffler R & D personnel are using the front and rear wheel drive models produced by American and Asian automakers to fully develop prototype products.