Modeling hydrodynamic processes methodology in the drive axle crankcase of a KAMAZ family vehicle

Introduction. Energy efficiency increase, environmental friendliness and wheeled vehicles safety are three main trends in improving their designs. The high level of consumer vehicle properties depends on the technical level of all its components, including the technical and economic indicators of the drive axles. The functional and technical characteristics of the driving axles determine the most important vehicle operational properties such as traction and dynamic indicators, fuel efficiency, noise levels, smoothness, support patency, and other characteristics. Almost all of these properties are known to be largely determined by the design, lubrication regimes of rotating parts and transmission oil characteristics. Traditionally, the operating conditions studies of the drive axle mechanism and its lubrication system are carried out with the help of laboratory and bench tests. However, lately technologies of “digital testing” or computer simulation have been increasingly practiced in automotive vehicles designing.

The purpose of the study was to develop a computer simulation technique for the hydrodynamic lubrication processes in the drive axle housing applying the FlowVision software package.

Methodology and research methods. Classical hydrodynamic equations in the form of Navier-Stokes equations, methods for the numerical solution of partial differential equations and dynamics computer simulation of a continuous medium were used to develop the research methodology.

Scientific novelty and results. As a result of the work performed a special technique has been developed. The scientific novelty of the work is a new method for the solution of an urgent problem by means of computer modeling technology.

Practical significance. The developed technique will reduce the volume of field tests in the development and optimization of lubrication systems for transmission units.

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