Mercedes-Benz Arocs 3352 AS with Turbo-Retarder Clutch will undergo several operating tests in the Far East. The truck will carry heavy constructional equipment in severe climate and off-road conditions.

The Turbo Retarder Clutch was developed by Daimler AG engineers to make application of trucks in carrying heavy and bulky cargo in quarries and on construction sites, as well as in combination with tipper or log truck bodies more efficient. Compared to conventional hydraulic clutches and hydraulic converters, this clutch provides maximum use of engine torque in all driving modes. As the result, on good road surface the truck pulls away at a lower speed and less fuel consumption. Besides, the Turbo Retarder Clutch is protected against overload and features great thermal stability even under extreme loads and maneuvering.

The Turbo Retarder Clutch combines advantages of hydrodynamic clutch and high efficiency of mechanical drivelin. In carrying of heavy cargos, on construction sites as well as within special application road trains it allows pulling away without any wear for clutch plates.

This is an innovative system with a fill-controlled, hydrodynamic coupling (turbo coupling) as the main component. It combines the functions of hydrodynamic clutch and hydrodynamic braking in one element.

During operation the engine torque is transferred via the hydrodynamic circuit with impeller and turbine wheel to the transmission input shaft, and then to the one-way clutch. A conventional clutch is arranged a lock-up clutch in parallel to the circuit. During braking, the turbine wheel is fixed with the turbine brake, and the system becomes a highly efficient primary retarder while the friction clutch is closed. The characteristics of the unit can be steplessly varied by filling and draining the hydrodynamic circuit.

DK RUS always strives to satisfy customers’ needs by offering state-of-the-art solutions for their businesses. The ‘eternal’ coupling will be an undisputable advantage for those companies who always operate Mercedes-Benz trucks in tough climate and heavy load conditions, since it ensures long service life and maximum profit from the truck.