The core task of the transmission oil pump is to "drive the circulation and pressurization of transmission oil". By precisely controlling the flow path and pressure of the oil, it supports all operating links of the transmission. Specifically, it can be broken down into four points:
1.Providing hydraulic power to drive shift executionFor automatic/semi-automatic transmissions such as AT, CVT, and DCT, shifting actions (e.g., clutch engagement/disengagement, planetary gear set switching, and adjustment of belt/chain drive) rely on sufficient hydraulic pressure for propulsion. The oil pump pressurizes the transmission oil to a specific pressure and delivers it to the transmission valve body. The valve body then controls the oil flow to the corresponding shift actuators (e.g., clutch cylinders, solenoid valves), ultimately achieving smooth shifting. If the oil pump pressure is insufficient, it may cause shift delays, jolts, or even failure to shift.
2.Delivering oil to achieve component lubricationThe transmission contains a large number of high-speed rotating components such as gears, bearings, and friction plates. Without lubrication, severe wear will occur quickly. The oil pump continuously delivers transmission oil to the friction contact surfaces of these components, forming an oil film to reduce direct metal-to-metal friction, minimize component loss, and extend the service life of the transmission. Even for manual transmissions, an oil pump (or splash lubrication combined with an oil pump in some models) is required to ensure lubrication coverage of key gears.
3.Removing heat to achieve cooling
During transmission operation, gear meshing and clutch friction generate a large amount of heat. Heat accumulation will reduce the viscosity and performance of transmission oil (e.g., decreased wear resistance) and may even cause overheating damage to components. When the oil pump drives the circulation of transmission oil, it delivers the oil that has absorbed heat to the transmission oil cooler (usually exchanging heat with engine coolant or air). After cooling, the oil is sent back to the transmission, maintaining the transmission's operating temperature within a reasonable range (typically 80-120°C).
4.Assisting in sealing and cleaning to protect system stability
The flowing transmission oil can fill tiny gaps between components, enhancing the transmission's sealing performance, preventing external impurities from entering, or internal oil leakage. At the same time, the cleaning agent components in the oil can absorb metal debris, sludge, and other impurities generated by gear wear, and bring them back to the filter in the transmission oil pan for filtration. This avoids impurity blockage of the oil circuit or increased component wear, ensuring the cleanliness and stability of the transmission system.