A Novel Gearbox Strength Check Method by Finite Element Analysis

: In order to meet the design requirements of gearbox for different gears, a novel method to verify bolts and gearbox housing is applied, which reduced the time and cost of experimental testing. The finite element analysis of this article is divided into two parts. Firstly, the axial force of the bolt is calculated by finite element method, and the bolts are verified according to VDI2230 standard. Secondly, the force of the gearbox housing is calculated and the strength of the gearbox housing in different gears is verified. Results show that the maximum axial force exerted on the bolt is 4761.8N at the hole 16. The maximum stress value of the gearbox is 234.2 MPa in the first gear state, which closes to the tensile strength 240 MPa. The maximum stress value of the improved gearbox housing is reduced to 133.9 MPa, meeting the usage requirements. In addition, this article established a finite element verification process for the gearbox housing. Although the grid size and boundary conditions apply only to this type of gearbox, the analysis process is applicable to the static strength verification of any gearbox housing.