<div class="htmlview paragraph">Formulas are derived to show that moving elements of a drive train can contribute to the energy seen by the clutch plates.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">Oscillograph traces, sample calculations and photographs of failed plates show actual energy at failure of test plates.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">The formula is presented for calculating instantaneous energy when coefficient of friction, apply pressure and slip speed are known or can be estimated.</div>