Combined Torque Converter for Mining Machines

Abstract

Transmissions of many technological and transport machines for mining enterprises are equipped with hydro-mechanical transmissions (HMT) with torque converters. HMTs have a number of positive properties. But a significant drawback of traditional automotive single-stage (single-turbine) torque converters is their relatively narrow torque ratio, which most often makes 2 or 3. Multi-stage torque converters in which two or three turbines are simultaneously connected to the output shaft demonstrate higher converting properties. The toque ratio of multi-stage hydraulic torque converters makes 4-6 or more. The drop in the efficiency in the range of large ratios and the lack of hydraulic coupling mode is one of the disadvantages of multistage torque converters. In order to overcome these shortcomings, the design of a combined torque converter is proposed. It combines modes of operation with one and two active turbines, as well as modes of hydraulic coupling and blocking. The main turbine of a combined torque converter is of the centrifugal type. The combination of single-stage and two-stage operation modes is achieved through the use of a composite pump wheel, one part of which can be used as a second centrifugal turbine. Two clutches are provided to control the torque converter.