The aim of the research project is to determine the local heat transfer behavior of wet clutches using CFD simulation. Systematic simulation series will be used to expand fundamental knowledge and system understanding, and to identify laws and correlations. Based on this, a transfer function will be developed to apply the research results to any size and variable operating conditions.

In the CFD modeling, a friction pairing consisting of a steel disk and a friction disk, the two carriers, and the flow volume are considered. The simulation results are validated using theoretical knowledge and test rig measurements. A parameter study will be conducted to calculate the influences of various parameters on the heat transfer behavior, and statistical methods will be used to identify laws and correlations. Regression methods will be used to derive the transfer function.

The enhanced knowledge of heat transfer behavior enables technically and economically optimized clutch development for SMEs. By transferring the simulation results into the FVA clutch calculation program KUPSIM, an application-optimized calculation of the thermal budget with comparable accuracy to the fully resolved three-dimensional calculation using CFD simulation is made possible. This results in significantly reduced development times for SMEs. SMEs can also benefit from research transfer when results are integrated into existing guidelines and standards. Additionally, the establishment of CFD simulation as an important tool in flow analysis of wet clutches will be supported by a CFD best-practice guideline to be developed in the research project.

The scientific, technical, and economic challenges are depicted in Figure 1.