Electromagnetic clutch, function - GF83.55-P-2101-01B

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 42 other vehicles, including the 1999 Mercedes-Benz S600, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S500, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S420, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S320, and 1999 Mercedes-Benz CL600. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Electromagnetic clutch (A9k1)

Fig 1: Identifying Electromagnetic Clutch (A9K1) Components

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.

Function

The pushbutton control module actuates the electro-magnetic clutch (A9k1) and provides power to the magnetic coil (5) to start up the A/C compressor. The magnetic force pulls the pressure plate (6) in against the rubber insert (7) and holds it in place. This closes the power flow between the vehicle engine and A/C compressor. If the power to the magnetic coil (5) is switched off, the pressure plate (6) moves away from the rubber insert (7) to its initial position interrupting the flow of power.

The electromagnetic clutch disengages automatically in order to prevent damage to the poly-V-belt in the event of a mechanical defect in the A/C compressor. In the event of a mechanical defect the A/C compressor is hard to turn or even locked up completely. The heat resulting on the friction surface causes the melting fuse (2) in the magnetic coil (5) to melt. The electrical power to the magnetic coil (5) is interrupted interrupting the power flow.