The clutch is a system that temporarily controls or disconnects engine power from the wheels.
Here we will learn about the different methods of operating the clutches.
The driver, clutch pedal or clutch lever force applied to the clutch mechanism is divided into four categories based on their mode of operation, which is transferred to the clutch mechanism to disengage the clutch.



1. Mechanical Operation. (Mechanical Operation)

2. Hydraulic Operation. (Electrical Operation)

3. Electrical Operation. (Electrical Operation)

4. Vacuum Operation. (Vacuum Operation)


► Mechanical operation. (Mechanical Operation)



Release bearings can be reached by force levers or cables applied to the driver's clutch pedal in a mechanically operated clutch manner.
The levers and other mechanisms in the mechanical clutch activating system are adjusted in such a way that 10 - 12 times the force applied to the driver's pedal is applied to the release fork.

► Hydraulic Operation. (Electrical Operation)


 

Such clutch actuators are usually provided in larger vehicles. This helps to reduce the strain on the clutch disassembly. These will be based on the pass law.
The force exerted by the driver on the clutch pedal moves the piston in a master cylinder. The cylinder pumps the hydraulic fluid filled in the fluid reservoir to the slave cylinder. At this time the piston in the slave cylinder moves forward and the clutch release fork moves and the clutch disengages.


► Electrical Operation. (Electrical Operation)

 

Electrical operation clutches are also known as Electromagnet Clutch.
They are similar in design to single plate clutches. The force exerted on the flywheel to hold the pressure plate to the flywheel is the magnetic force applied to the flywheel. The power generated by the alternator is what helps flywheel windings become magnets.
 

WORKING
Clutch disengagement is done through a switch provided on the gear lever / clutch pedal. When the driver shifts the gear lever / pedal for gear shifting, the switch activates and the current flowing to the winding stops, and the pressure plate on the flywheel loses magnetic force and the pressure plate moves away from the flywheel and disengages the clutch.
Springs are also provided behind the pressure plate as the magnetic field emitted by the winding is less likely to cause clutch slip as the power generated by the alternator at lower speeds of the engine is less. These springs provide the force needed to engage and stop the clutch at low engine speeds.

► Vacuum Operation. (Vacuum Operation)


 

In such a system, the clutch is operated using a vacuum generated by the engine inlet manifold. The main components are a vacuum cylinder with a piston, a solenoid-operated valve, a reservoir, and a non-return valve.
The reservoir is connected to the engine inlet manifold via a non-return valve. The solenoid valve also connects the vacuum cylinder to the reservoir. When the switch provided on the gear lever / clutch pedal is operated, the solenoid and the battery are connected and the valve is activated.

 WORKING

Normally the gear lever / clutch pedal is switched off. For this reason the connection between the solenoid and the battery is disconnected and the valve remains in its lower state. At this time atmospheric pressure will be felt on both sides of the piston in the reservoir.
The switch turns on when the lever is moved to shift gears to the driver and connects the solenoid to the battery. In this condition the vacuum from the reservoir on one side of the piston is felt and the atmospheric pressure is felt on the other side.
The piston moves in the direction in which the vacuum is felt and the lever attached to the piston moves and disengages the clutch.
At the end of gear shifting, the switch is turned off and the valve returns to its old position, causing atmospheric pressure on both sides of the piston and the clutch engaging.