The spelling of the word "torque converter" originates from the Latin word "torquere" meaning "to twist". The first syllable, "tor", is pronounced with an aspirated 't' sound, followed by the long vowel sound /ɔ:/ as seen in the phonetic transcription /tɔrk/. The second syllable is pronounced with the dipthong /kw/ and the final syllable is pronounced with /tə(r)/. The resulting word /ˈtɔrk kənˌvɜːrtə(r)/ refers to a mechanical device that enables transmission of power in a vehicle by converting rotational power from the engine to the transmission.
A torque converter is a mechanical device commonly used in automobile transmissions to transfer rotational power from the engine to the transmission. It is essentially a fluid coupling that allows the engine to continue running even when the vehicle is at a standstill, while also allowing the vehicle to be started in any gear.
The torque converter consists of three main components: the impeller, the turbine, and the stator. The impeller is connected to the engine's crankshaft and drives the transmission fluid, acting as a centrifugal pump. The turbine is connected to the input shaft of the transmission and receives the fluid flow from the impeller. The stator, positioned between the impeller and the turbine, redirects the fluid flow to improve the torque output.
The operation of a torque converter relies on the principle of fluid dynamics. As the impeller spins, it impulsively transfers torque to the turbine through the fluid medium. However, due to the difference in design and fin angles, there is some slippage between the impeller and the turbine, which leads to energy loss in the form of heat. This slippage allows the torque converter to multiply torque, enabling smoother acceleration and improved performance.
One primary advantage of a torque converter is its ability to provide an automatic transmission with smooth and seamless gear changes, as the fluid coupling allows for gradual engagement. Additionally, torque converters can act as a torque multiplier, enhancing low-end torque for improved pulling power and acceleration.
The word "torque converter" originated from the combination of two distinct terms: "torque" and "converter".
1. Torque: The term "torque" has its roots in Latin, deriving from the word "torquere" meaning "to twist". Over time, "torque" came to represent the rotational force or moment of force applied to an object. It is commonly associated with concepts related to rotational motion and mechanical systems.
2. Converter: "Converter" indicates a device or mechanism that changes one form of energy into another form. It stems from the Latin word "convertō", which means "to turn around" or "to change direction". In this context, a converter is responsible for transforming the energy or power from one state to another.