Abstract: A groove pattern for the paper-based friction facing on a wet clutch to elize the surface temperature of the friction facings and thus increase the thermal capacity of the clutch where there is continuous slippage. The groove pattern includes one or more continuous annular grooves dividing the friction area into two or more annular bands and a plurality of cross grooves in each band which are angled with respect to a radius of the facing. The angled cross grooves increase in number in each band from the inner band to the outer band. The angled cross grooves extend at an acute angle (10-50 degrees) to such radius. Slip of the friction pair of plates cause a viscous pumping action. The cross groove angle in each band of the facing is preferably different so as to keep all the grooves filled with cooling oil. And, the cross-section of the cross grooves vary in their dimensions as between the bands. The disclosed 60.degree.

Abstract: A groove pattern for the friction facings of a wet clutch to equalize the face temperature of the friction facings and thus increase the thermal capacity of the clutch where there is continuous sllippage. The groove pattern includes one or more circumferential grooves dividing the friction area into two or more annular bands with radial grooves in each band which increase in number from the inner band to the outer band.