How Does a Magnetic Clutch Work on a Car AC? Learn More Here!

Car air conditioning is one of the features that make driving comfortable. There are several important components in a car air conditioner, one of which is the magnetic clutch. The magnetic clutch ensures that the AC functions properly, so that the temperature conditions in the car can be adjusted as desired. However, have you ever wondered how the magnetic clutch works?

To answer that question,  TransTRACK has summarized it for you in this article. Without the need to linger, let’s go straight to the discussion.

Magnetic Clutch AC Components

In order to fully understand how a magnetic clutch works, it is important to know the components that make it up. The following is an explanation of the components in a car AC magnetic clutch:

Magnetic Plate

The magnetic plate is a part of the magnetic clutch made of ferromagnetic material. When electricity is passed through the electromagnet coil inside the magnetic clutch, the disk becomes magnetic and is attracted towards the electromagnet coil, causing a clutch between the two disks to form.

Electromagnetic Coil

The electromagnetic coil is a coil of copper wire found inside the magnetic clutch. When an electric current flows through this coil, it creates a magnetic field around the coil. The resulting magnetic field is what pulls the magnetic disk towards the coil, bringing the two disks together and starting the rotation of the AC compressor.

Clutch Plate

The clutch plate is a component that is directly connected to the AC compressor shaft. When the magnetic disk is attracted to the electromagnet coil, the clutch disk is carried along so that the compressor starts to rotate. The clutch disk is designed to rotate simultaneously with the compressor shaft when the clutch is formed.

Engagement Springs

The engagement spring is responsible for applying pressure to the clutch disk to keep it in the open position when the magnetic clutch is not engaged. When the clutch is formed, this spring applies enough pressure for the clutch to rotate in conjunction with the compressor shaft.

Magnetic Clutch Housing

The clutch housing is the outer part that protects and surrounds the components inside. In addition to providing physical protection, the housing also serves to direct cooling airflow towards the components so that they do not overheat during operation.

Electrical Connector

The electrical connector connects the electromagnet coil in the magnetic clutch with the car’s electrical system. This allows electric current to flow into the coil, creating a magnetic field and triggering the formation of the clutch.

How Does a Magnetic Clutch AC Work?

Magnetic clutch is a component in a car air conditioning system consisting of a clutch, pulley, and magnetic spool. The main function of the magnetic clutch is to connect and disconnect the compressor with the engine rotation. The magnetic clutch work process starts when the air conditioner is turned on. When the magnetic clutch is active, the compressor will rotate and produce cold air. Conversely, when the magnetic clutch is not active, the compressor will not rotate and does not produce cold air.

The way a magnetic clutch works is by using a magnetic field to move the clutch. When the magnetic field is activated, the clutch will attach to the pulley and move the compressor. Whereas, when the magnetic field is turned off, the clutch will detach from the pulley and the compressor will not rotate.

The magnetic clutch controls when the AC compressor should turn. As the temperature inside the vehicle increases, the cooling system automatically works to lower that temperature. Once the temperature reaches the desired level, the electricity to the magnetic coil is cut off, disconnecting the clutch, and the compressor stops turning.

Impact of Magnetic Clutch AC Damage

If there is damage to the magnetic clutch, there can be several impacts that affect the comfort and performance of the vehicle. Some of these impacts include:

No Cold Air

A faulty magnetic clutch is unable to effectively mesh the compressor rotation with the car’s engine, hampering the air conditioning system’s ability to produce cold air. This can result in discomfort for drivers and passengers, especially in hot weather conditions.

Engine Overheat

Car engines work harder to overcome the inability of the magnetic clutch, which can lead to an increase in engine temperature. Overheating can result in serious damage to the engine and other components, requiring costly repairs.

Damage to Other Components

Damage to the magnetic clutch can cause an imbalance in rotation or extra load on other components in the air conditioning system. This can damage the compressor, condenser, or  evaporator, all of which play an important role in the performance of the cooling system.

How to Deal with Magnetic Clutch Damage

If you are experiencing the symptoms of a magnetic clutch malfunction, here is a simple step-by-step guide on how to fix it:

Check the Physical Condition

Turn off the car engine and make sure the area around the magnetic clutch is clean from dirt or dust that can damage it. Check for wear and tear or physical damage to the magnetic clutch parts.

Clean the Magnetic Clutch

Use a soft brush or air compressor to remove any dust or dirt that may be stuck to the magnetic clutch. Be sure not to use cleaning agents that may damage the components.

Check Wires and Connections

Check the cables and connectors connected to the magnetic clutch. Make sure there are no broken wires or loose connectors. Replace any damaged wires or connectors if found.

Check the Refrigerant Level

Make sure that the refrigerant level in the car air conditioning system is sufficient. Lack of refrigerant can cause the magnetic clutch to work harder and get damaged.

Consider Replacement

If after inspection and maintenance, the problem with the magnetic clutch is not resolved, consider replacing the damaged component with a new one.

To optimize your car’s magnetic clutch maintenance, you can take advantage of TransTRACK’s Vehicle Maintenance System (VMS) technology. Vehicle Maintenance System can be an effective solution in monitoring the condition of various vehicle components, including the magnetic clutch. With this system, you can detect potential problems before they become serious, saving you time and money on repairs. Understanding how the magnetic clutch works, signs of damage, and preventive measures can help maintain the health of your vehicle’s cooling system. So, don’t let magnetic clutch problems stop you from traveling comfortably. Protect your vehicle with the Vehicle Maintenance System from  TransTRACK and enjoy fresh air in the car all day long.