Why are specially adapted ATFs so important today?

In this article you will learn:

What is the role of Automatic Transmission Fluids?
What requirements are placed on an ATFs?
What are the advantages of using a dedicated ATF?

As the trend to reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions continues, powertrain designs are becoming increasingly complex. For vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions it is extremely important that the correct Automatic Transmission Fluid is selected so that it performs its function throughout the service life.

Today, automatic transmissions are becoming more and more popular. The transmission is connected to the engine, transmitting power to the wheels, automatically changing gears as the vehicle moves. Although this process seems simple there are many complex technical requirements at the heart of it.

We see increasing attention by vehicle manufacturers to automatic transmissions as assemblies that are an integral part of the drivetrain. This is the only way to achieve increased performance, reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions and greater driving comfort.

Automatic transmissions consist of many components that are made of different materials so that the whole mechanism works smoothly and reliably. The main components are the torque converter, planetary gears, centrifugal oil pump, seals and friction disc assemblies (clutches, brakes).

Automatic transmissions are evolving with increasing numbers of gears and torque values. And the materials used for construction are becoming lighter and lighter. This places ever-increasing demands on ATFs to ensure proper functioning of automatic transmissions.

ATF is probably the most complex lubricant

An oil must cool and lubricate as well as transmit power and pressure. At the same time it has to meet sometimes conflicting demands. For instance it must reduce friction to maximise gearbox efficiency, but at the same time it must ensure that there is no slippage between the friction discs for fast gear changes. Thus, it can be seen that the friction characteristics must be strictly defined. Additionally, the parameters must be maintained throughout the period between oil changes, so significant shear and oxidation resistance is very important. For proper operation of the gearbox it is also necessary for the oil to maintain proper fluidity at low temperatures, as well as to prevent vibrations of the friction discs. All this in the context of the continuous trend to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

As you can see from the above description it is impossible to exist one universal ATF oil for various types of gearboxes, both the new and existing ones.

Costly failures or trouble-free operation?

The result of using an oil that is not formulated for a specific type of automatic transmission can be many problems, such as lack of acceleration, difficulty shifting gears, increased wear on components. In the worst case an expensive failure. Some damage may not be noticeable right after an oil change but it will be noticeable in the long run.

The benefits of using a dedicated ATF can bring real benefits in terms of lower total cost of ownership, reduced servicing costs, increased reliability, reduced fuel consumption and better driving experience.

A complex process

Developing and validating automatic transmission fluids is a complex process due to the wide range of performance requirements and materials used in transmission design. Manufacturer-specific (OEM) and industry tests must be conducted to verify an ATF performance prior to final long-term reliability testing and road test verification.

ATFs that are properly formulated, tested and approved consist of a balanced blend of base oils, quality additives and viscosity modifiers. The influence of each of these components on the performance and function of the finished product is very important. Key additives affecting performance are: friction modifiers, detergents, dispersants, anti-foam, oxidation inhibitors, corrosion inhibitors, depressants, swellers, anti-wear.

The content of each of the above mentioned additives must be strictly defined so that they can work together and perform specific functions. Chemists, specialists in the industry create these complex formulations in such a way that none of the additives, base oil and viscosity modifiers come into conflict with each other. This is the only way to achieve the desired goals for an ATF.

Such a significant level of investment should ensure that the phrase ‘dedicated ATF’ is based on rigorous research and testing, giving everyone the opportunity to see the real benefits of such an oil ensuring peace of mind throughout the life of the vehicle.

As a leader in lubricant solutions, FUCHS has an exceptional range of Automatic Transmission Fluids designed to meet the requirements of individual automatic transmissions.