Oilers/Plant Tenders (HHC) Civil Service Practice Exam

The clutch torque delivered by a fluid coupling is approximately how much compared to the engine torque?

1. Half of

2. The same as

3. Twice

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: The same as

The clutch torque delivered by a fluid coupling is approximately the same as the engine torque. This is due to the principle of how fluid couplings operate. Fluid couplings transfer torque fluidically through a fluid medium, allowing them to effectively transmit the engine's output torque to the drivetrain. When the engine is running and the fluid coupling is engaged, it allows for a near 1:1 ratio of torque transmission, which means that the torque produced at the output of the coupling is quite similar to that coming from the engine. In practical terms, while there may be minor losses due to slip or inefficiencies in the fluid, the overall capacity of a well-designed fluid coupling to deliver torque closely approximates that of the engine itself under normal operating conditions. This is essential for the functionality of many automotive and industrial applications where smooth transitions of power and torque are necessary for performance and efficiency. Hence, the correct answer reflects the designed functionality of fluid couplings to maintain effective torque transmission.