Torque converter facts for kids
A torque converter is a special device that helps multiply, or increase, the twisting force (called torque) from an engine. Think of torque as the power that makes something spin or turn. These converters are often used in cars, trucks, and trains that have internal combustion engines, helping them start moving and change speed easily.
How a Torque Converter Works
A hydraulic torque converter uses fluid to transfer power. It has three main parts inside:
- Green is the pump turbine. The engine spins this part.
- Blue is the stator. This part helps direct the fluid flow.
- Yellow is the driven turbine. This part is connected to the vehicle's wheels.
- Red shows the direction the special hydraulic fluid flows inside.
When the engine starts, the pump turbine spins and pushes the fluid. This fluid then pushes against the driven turbine, making it spin too. At first, when the vehicle is moving slowly, the driven turbine can get a lot of torque. This helps the vehicle start moving from a stop.
As the vehicle goes faster, the speed of the driven turbine increases, and the amount of torque it delivers goes down. This happens automatically, which means the driver doesn't need to manually change gears like in some older cars. It makes driving much smoother and easier!
Images for kids
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ZF torque converter cut-away
See also
In Spanish: Convertidor de par para niños
