Comparative study of different moving mesh strategies for investigating oil flow inside a gearbox

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to numerically investigate the multi-phase flow and thermal physics inside gearboxes, which is critical to the theoretical analysis of energy transfer. Design/methodology/approach To explore the churning power losses, a three-dimensional numerical model of the gearbox is built using the RNG k–e turbulence model and three alternative moving mesh strategies (i.e. the dynamic mesh [DM], sliding mesh and immersion solid methods). The influence of the rotational speed on the transient flow field, including the oil distribution, velocity and pressure distribution and the churning losses, is obtained. Finally, the time-dependent thermo-fluid state of the gearbox is predicted. Findings The findings show that the global DM method is preferable for determining the flow structures and power losses. The rotational speed exerts a significant effect on the oil flow and the wheel accounts for most of the churning losses. Based on the instantaneous temperature distribution, the asymmetric configuration leads to the initial bias of the high-temperature region towards the pinion. Additionally, the heat convection efficiency of the tooth tip is slightly higher than that of the tooth root. Originality/value An in-depth understanding of the flow dynamics inside the gearbox is essential for its optimisation to decrease the power and enhance heat dissipation during operation.