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Glite Dictionary
friction clutch

friction clutch

7.2
A device that uses rubbing between two surfaces to transfer power when changing gears
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : embrague de fricción
  • During the operation, the technician adjusted the friction clutch to ensure optimal power transfer.

Examples

  • The mechanic explained how the friction clutch allows for smooth gear changes in the car.

  • It can be operated by one person, is self-contained, and has a hydraulically controlled friction clutch that guarantees proper torque for each valve.

    Academic text (1997)

  • - Um, the captain releases the friction clutches on the water side doors.

    Saving the Titanic (2012)

  • The design of the new machine includes a durable friction clutch for effective performance under heavy loads.

Synonyms

clutch
vsfriction clutch
  • Specialized
39 4.1

A pedal in a car that connects or disconnects the engine from the gears

is a specific kind that transmits motion by surface friction contact

Surface Forms

friction clutch singular
friction clutches plural

Morphology

friction + clutch

The compound is fully compositional: 'friction' (resistance from rubbing) combined with 'clutch' (the mechanical device connecting engine and transmission) directly yields a clutch that transmits motion by frictional contact. Although somewhat technical, this noun–noun formation follows regular English compounding and similar labels exist in other languages, so a B1 learner who knows both words can infer the meaning.

Etymology

Friction clutch is a very literal name: it is a clutch that works by friction, like two flat parts pressed together so one turning makes the other turn. That's why the term means a clutch that uses surface contact 'to send motion' from one part to another.