From the point of view of mechanics, differential is considered as a device that distributes torque between input shafts. It is located in a car drive. The car differential, accordingly, distributes the moment from the input shaft of the gearbox or cardan between the axles of the wheels of the car equally.
Differential is required so that the drive wheels rotate at different angular speeds. When turning, the inner wheel of the car passes a shorter arc than the outer. And if the wheels rotate at the same speed, then one of them should go into a turn with a slip. This, in turn, will negatively affect the condition of the tires and the handling. The differential also transmits torque to the drive axle continuously.
If the car has one driving axle, then the differential is located on it, if the car is with all-wheel drive, then there are three differentials on it - on the driving axles and between them. If the driving axis of the car is doubled, then on each axis there is a differential, as well as on cars with all-wheel drive. However, on such machines with all-wheel drive turned on, driving on dense surfaces is not recommended.
The limited slip differential (or a differential with increased internal resistance, abbreviated as RPA) differs from the usual one in that the angular velocities of the input shafts are not equal. This is true when driving on the road. The limited slip differential allows you to continue driving in a situation where one wheel of the drive axle has no contact with the road. Limiting the difference in angular velocity of the wheels allows us to transmit a useful moment, while at least one of the wheels is in contact with the road.
Now there are two types of limited slip differentials used in modern automotive industry. The first type is a differential, sensitive to the difference of moments (or torsen). The second type is sensitive to speed differences (created on the basis of a viscous coupling). This type is most popular because it is less demanding on maintenance.
The differential-type differential design is simpler than other types of limited slip differentials. A distinctive feature is that this type of work is most smooth.
Differential can be installed on various cars. Specialists know, for example, the VAZ limited slip differential. There are also self-locking worm-type differentials. For example, the limited slip differential type "Quaif" (QUAIFE). It is intended for
cars with
front wheel drive. Such a differential will help to most fully realize the engine's torque on ice or if there is an excess of traction on the drive wheels. The wheel in contact with the road receives an additional moment, while the wheel is unloaded, which has lost contact with the road or stalled on ice. Car patency is getting better, acceleration in the winter season is the most dynamic. In addition, the handling and sensitivity of the accelerator pedal are improved.