Patent attributes
A clutch housing for an automatic transmission includes an aluminum hub and a drum portion which is laser or friction welded to the hub. Due to the different strength requirements of the hub and drum, the hub is fabricated of 6082-T6 aluminum or a material of similar strength and malleability and is forged or die cast. The hub includes male splines or gear teeth disposed on its periphery. The cylindrical drum is fabricated of 7075-T6 aluminum or a material of similar or greater strength and similar malleability and is roller died or stamped and includes female splines or gear teeth on its inner surface as well as a plurality of radially oriented lubrication openings or slots which facilitate flow of lubricating fluid from the interior to the exterior of the cylindrical drum.
