Title: Unveiling the operational mechanisms of magnetorheological transmission: experimental characterisation of key dynamic, thermal and torque behaviours

Authors: Xiankang Huang; Zuzhi Tian; Haopeng Li; Fei Chen; Gege Liu; Shuyou Wang

Addresses: School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China ' School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China ' School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China; Jiangsu Wuyang Automatic Control Technology Co., Ltd, Xuzhou 221116, China ' School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China ' School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China ' School of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China

Abstract: This study experimentally investigates five key characteristics of magnetorheological (MR) transmission devices. The zero-field tests reveal speed-dependent no-load torque that decreases over time due to centrifugal particle migration. Static characteristics show a linear current-torque relationship with negligible hysteresis, ensuring high controllability. Dynamic response is dominated by mechanical factors (> 97%), with current withdrawal being 1.5× slower due to magnetic remanence. Torque remains stable across slip speeds as reduced Mason number mitigates shear-thinning effects. Temperature tests show only 3.2% torque reduction at 100°C, as viscosity decrease partially offsets magnetisation loss. These comprehensive findings provide fundamental insights into MR transmission mechanisms, offering valuable guidance for optimising device performance in applications requiring precise torque control and thermal stability.

Keywords: magnetorheological transmission; zero-field characteristic; static characteristic; dynamic characteristic; torque characteristic; temperature characteristic.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHM.2026.155981

International Journal of Hydromechatronics, 2026 Vol.9 No.3, pp.405 - 430

Received: 24 Jul 2025
Accepted: 15 Oct 2025
Published online: 28 Aug 2026 *

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