Grease thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication properties of tripod sliding universal couplings

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to improve the grease thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication (TEHL) properties of the tripod sliding universal coupling (TSUC) under automotive practical conditions. For this purpose, the effect of effective radius was theoretically investigated. Design/methodology/approach Based on the simplified geometric model, the effect of effective radius on the pressure distribution, film thickness and temperature distribution of the TSUC was theoretically investigated using the multigrid and stepping methods. The TEHL properties were compared with the results obtained using the isothermal calculation method. Findings The results show that the thermal effect has a great impact on the film thickness and the pressure distribution of grease lubrication properties. Moreover, larger effective radius results in a wider but lower pressure distribution, a wider and thicker lubricating film and a lower temperature distribution. Originality/value The TSUC can be widely used in the front drive automotive transmission because it can transmit larger torque than before. The effect of effective radius on the thermal grease lubrication properties under automotive practical conditions provides a new direction for designing it.