When you think about clutches for your project you probably consider disc size, thickness, friction surface compounds, and other technical aspects. A clutch is not something you think much about until it fails, and it’s not one of those shiny go-fast parts you pine after. Nonetheless, a performance clutch designed and manufactured to support you application is an integral part to transferring power to the wheels.

Among the transmissions, superchargers, and other mechanical components Eaton manufactures are its huge variety of clutch discs. Eaton manufactures clutches for fleet trucks, performance cars, and passenger vehicles. At its Auburn, Indiana plant Eaton gives us a tour of the operations surrounding all aspects of production. In this video we find the well tuned production line is not only a result of fine engineering and manufacturing practices.

According the Auburn plant manager Ralph Beam, “One of the things that’s unique about Auburn, is that we have the research and development, engineering, warranty analysis, and production all together on the same campus. We work together to really provide a better solution for the customer.”

The Eaton employee base is described as a highly engaged group by Beam, and their contributions are visible across the plant floor. Eaton values the ideas and suggestions of its employees. When a solution to a problem is identified, or an improvement to an existing process is suggested, Eaton management works hard to implement the “vision”.

Robotics are uses to move castings around the plant.

Eaton is concerned with producing dependable, repeatable products. The in-house warranty analysis department utilizes both hands-on inspection and analysis, as well as high-tech equipment to perform inspection and determine faults in problems. With these techniques, the engineering department can make the most informed changes.

The next time you are shopping for clutches, think about the people who had an impact on that part. They have dedicated themselves to making sure you receive a high quality product with integrity.