Steel separator plates: Thickness 1.5mm ±0.05mm

Component Specifications

Definition

Steel separator plates are thin, flat metallic discs used within multi-plate clutch assemblies in automotive and industrial applications. They serve as rigid spacers between friction plates, maintaining proper alignment and spacing to ensure consistent pressure distribution during clutch operation. These plates are critical for heat dissipation, torque transmission, and preventing friction material adhesion during disengagement.

Working Principle

Steel separator plates operate by providing a rigid, smooth surface between friction plates in a clutch pack. When hydraulic or mechanical pressure is applied, the plates compress the friction materials against each other, creating friction that transmits torque. During disengagement, the plates separate to eliminate contact, allowing free rotation. Their flatness and parallelism ensure even pressure distribution and prevent drag or uneven wear.

Materials

Typically made from high-carbon steel (SAE 1070-1095) or alloy steel (AISI 4140/4340) with hardness of 40-50 HRC. Surface treatments include phosphate coating (e.g., zinc phosphate) for corrosion resistance and improved oil retention, or nitriding for enhanced wear resistance. Thickness ranges from 1.0mm to 3.0mm with tolerances of ±0.05mm.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Diameter	150-300mm (varies by application)
Flatness	≤0.1mm across diameter
Hardness	45-50 HRC
Thickness	1.5mm ±0.05mm
Parallelism	≤0.05mm
Surface Roughness	Ra 0.8-1.6μm

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

DIN 1544, SAE J429

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Clutch Pack

A multi-plate friction assembly within an automatic transmission that engages and disengages power flow between rotating components.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Warping under thermal stress
Surface scoring from debris
Corrosion in humid environments
Improper thickness causing clutch drag

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Overheating from sustained high-load operation
Failure: Thermal warping leading to uneven pressure distribution
Mitigation: Use materials with higher thermal conductivity, implement cooling channels, and follow recommended duty cycles

Trigger: Contaminated transmission fluid
Failure: Abrasive wear and surface scoring
Mitigation: Regular fluid changes with proper filtration, use of protective coatings

Trigger: Improper installation torque
Failure: Cracking or distortion under uneven stress
Mitigation: Follow manufacturer torque specifications, use calibrated tools, and verify parallelism during assembly

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

Dimensional tolerances per ISO 2768-m, flatness within 0.1mm, hardness variation ±2 HRC

Test Method

Dimensional verification with CMM, hardness testing per ASTM E18, surface roughness measurement per ISO 4287, flatness testing with optical comparators

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Steel separator plates

Manufacturer profiles associated with Steel separator plates.

Sourcing Steel separator plates from China?

Tell us your specification and target quantity — we will match it against manufacturer records and come back with the factories that fit.

Request manufacturers We manufacture this

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review

Related Components

Synchronizers

Synchronizers are precision components in manual transmissions that enable smooth gear shifting by equalizing rotational speeds between gears and shafts.

Brake Disc (Rotor)

A rotating disc in disc brake systems that creates friction with brake pads to slow or stop vehicle motion.

Main Bearing Journals

Main bearing journals are precision-machined cylindrical surfaces on a crankshaft that rotate within main bearings to support rotational motion in internal combustion engines.

Surround

Structural component that encloses and protects suspension system elements while providing mounting points and structural integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of steel separator plates in a clutch pack?

They separate friction plates to ensure proper engagement/disengagement, maintain alignment, dissipate heat, and prevent adhesion during clutch operation.

Can steel separator plates be reused after clutch wear?

No, they should be replaced with clutch rebuilds as wear, warping, or surface degradation can compromise performance and cause premature failure.

What are common failure signs for steel separator plates?

Symptoms include clutch slippage, uneven engagement, overheating, vibration, or abnormal noises due to warping, scoring, or excessive wear.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Steel separator plates