Molded or woven organic clutch: The most common OEM clutch in modern cars is the organic woven type. Woven organic clutches are manufactured with metallic oxides, compounded rubber, and woven fiberglass yarns for increased strength. Molded facings are the most affordable option but lacks the necessary strength to handle high horsepower or high-performance applications. However, most woven organic facings can handle up to 10,000 rpm. Woven organic clutches are affordable, reliable, easy to manufacture, and offers a smooth engagement. For OEM applications and everyday drivability, this is the best option.
Heavy-duty organic: This type of clutch features a higher level of metallic content than an ordinary organic clutch. This enables the clutch to withstand higher temperatures and better durability in sustained high-performance applications. The heavy-duty organic clutch is ideal for street and track applications. It may be a bit more costly, but it offers enhanced performance with a smooth engagement.
Ceramic clutch: This type of clutch is manufactured using a careful blend of iron, tin, copper, bronze, and silicon dioxide. Similar to ceramic brake discs, ceramic clutches are designed for racing applications. It can withstand fading even when exposed to excruciating amounts of heat, making it ideal for heavy track use. Price wise, a ceramic clutch is considerably more expensive than a heavy-duty organic clutch. And while ceramic clutches are designed with a higher ratio of static to dynamic friction, the clutch engagement of the ceramic variety can be best described as sudden or abrupt.
Kevlar clutch: If you need a stronger clutch but don’t need the clunky engagement of a ceramic clutch, the Kevlar clutch is the next big thing. Kevlar is engineered to last three times longer than organic facings while still offering a smooth and streetable engagement action. However, Kevlar clutches demand higher clamping pressures (ergo a high strength pressure plate) and a longer break-in period in order to prevent glazing the friction surface.