Clutch-plates are a common component of vehicle transmissions, but they are also known by several synonyms. One of the most common is the friction plate, which refers to the fact that the plate uses friction to transfer power from the engine to the transmission. Other synonyms include the clutch disc, which is another term for the disc-shaped plate. The term clutch facing is also used to describe this component, and it refers to the fact that the plate is covered in a material (usually asbestos-free) that helps it grip the surfaces of other clutch components. Other synonyms for clutch-plate include friction discs, pressure plates, and clutch drive plates.