<P> Modifications to the basic three element design have been periodically incorporated, especially in applications where higher than normal torque multiplication is required . Most commonly, these have taken the form of multiple turbines and stators, each set being designed to produce differing amounts of torque multiplication . For example, the Buick Dynaflow automatic transmission was a non-shifting design and, under normal conditions, relied solely upon the converter to multiply torque . The Dynaflow used a five element converter to produce the wide range of torque multiplication needed to propel a heavy vehicle . </P> <P> Although not strictly a part of classic torque converter design, many automotive converters include a lock - up clutch to improve cruising power transmission efficiency and reduce heat . The application of the clutch locks the turbine to the impeller, causing all power transmission to be mechanical, thus eliminating losses associated with fluid drive . </P> <P> A torque converter has three stages of operation: </P> <Ul> <Li> Stall . The prime mover is applying power to the impeller but the turbine cannot rotate . For example, in an automobile, this stage of operation would occur when the driver has placed the transmission in gear but is preventing the vehicle from moving by continuing to apply the brakes . At stall, the torque converter can produce maximum torque multiplication if sufficient input power is applied (the resulting multiplication is called the stall ratio). The stall phase actually lasts for a brief period when the load (e.g., vehicle) initially starts to move, as there will be a very large difference between pump and turbine speed . </Li> <Li> Acceleration . The load is accelerating but there still is a relatively large difference between impeller and turbine speed . Under this condition, the converter will produce torque multiplication that is less than what could be achieved under stall conditions . The amount of multiplication will depend upon the actual difference between pump and turbine speed, as well as various other design factors . </Li> <Li> Coupling . The turbine has reached approximately 90 percent of the speed of the impeller . Torque multiplication has essentially ceased and the torque converter is behaving in a manner similar to a simple fluid coupling . In modern automotive applications, it is usually at this stage of operation where the lock - up clutch is applied, a procedure that tends to improve fuel efficiency . </Li> </Ul>

Is the torque converter part of the powertrain