Learn More About Cars: How Does the Torque Converter Work?

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Last Updated, May 31, 2023, 12:51 PM

A car cannot move without power. Fortunately, your car’s engine provides all the necessary power to help you drive. As you press the gas pedal, fluid increases within the torque converter and generates power that’s distributed to the wheels. The wheels spin more rapidly so the vehicle moves faster.

If you want to learn more about cars, continue reading to find out exactly how the torque converter works.

The Impeller and Turbine

The impeller is a circular piece comprised of curved blades. The part connects to the engine, which spins the impeller. Then, fluid enters the impeller at the center and circulates along the curved blades.

The turbine is opposite the impeller. As fluid exits the impeller, it’s directed into the blades of the turbine. They move at a slower rate than the impeller to receive fluid at the center of the turbine.

The impeller and turbine resemble the fans of a blade. The two face each other and continue the cycle of fluid coupling. However, this process doesn’t create the torque required to accelerate the vehicle.

Generating Torque With the Stator

The stator is a small circular piece between the impeller and the turbine. It resembles the impeller and turbine and receives fluid from the turbine, blocking it from reaching the impeller. If excessive fluid returns to the impeller, it would cause the fluid to flow freely in the system. The fins move at a slower rate and in the opposite direction in order to prevent this from happening.

The stator redirects the fluid to the turbine so it can move through the turbine and to the output shaft. Without the stator, the vehicle couldn’t receive the necessary torque to power the transmission.

The Efficiency of the Lock-Up Clutch

The final piece of the torque converter is the lock-up clutch. While the stator assists with efficiency, the lock-up clutch enhances performance. It “locks up” the turbine and impeller at higher speeds to minimize slipping. As a result, the vehicle receives incredible fuel efficiency.

The torque converter is just one important component of the transmission. If you’re ready to learn more about cars, read an overview of automatic transmission parts to understand features like the planetary gear set and brake bands! Expanding your automotive knowledge is the best way to understand more about the car you drive every day.

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