HYDRAULIC CLUTCH ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF PROVIDING HYDRAULIC FLUID TO A HYDRAULIC CLUTCH ASSEMBLY

摘要

A hydraulic clutch assembly includes a plurality of frictional clutch discs moveable between an engaged condition and a disengaged condition, wherein the engaged condition provides a transfer of rotational energy. Also included is a first toroidal hydraulic chamber configured to depress the plurality of frictional clutch discs into the engaged condition. Further included is a second toroidal hydraulic chamber opposing the first toroidal hydraulic chamber, wherein the second toroidal hydraulic chamber is configured to balance centrifugal expansion forces of the first toroidal hydraulic chamber. Yet further included is a lubrication circuit for supplying a hydraulic fluid from a fluid reservoir to the second toroidal hydraulic chamber and the plurality of frictional clutch discs, wherein the second toroidal hydraulic chamber is substantially filled prior to delivery of the hydraulic fluid to the plurality of frictional clutch discs.