Research on thermal-fluid-structure coupling of valve plate pair in an axial piston pump with high pressure and high speed

Abstract

Purpose High pressure and high speed of the axial piston pump can improve its power density, but they also deteriorate the thermal-fluid-structure coupling effect of the friction pairs. This paper aims to reveal the coupling mechanism of the pump, for example, valve plate pair, by carrying out research on multi-physics field coupling. Design/methodology/approach Considering the influences of temperature on material properties and thermal fluid on structure, the thermal-fluid elastic mechanics model is established. A complete set of fast and effective thermal-fluid-structure coupling method is presented, by which the numerical analysis is conducted for the valve plate pair. Findings According to calculations, it is revealed that the temperature and pressure evolution laws of oil film with time, the pressure distribution law of the fluid, stress and displacement distribution laws of the solid in the valve plate pair. In addition, the forming history of the wedge-shaped oil film and mating clearance change law with rotational speed and outlet pressure in the valve plate pair are presented. Originality/value For an axial piston pump operating under high speed, high pressure and wide temperature range, the multi-physics field coupling analysis is an indispensable means and method. This paper provides theoretical evidence for the development of the pump and lays a solid foundation for the research of the same kind of problem.