Lubricated loaded tooth contact analysis for spur gear pair

Gears are key components to the operation of many machines and mechanisms. However, their presence often affects system efficiency and can lead to noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) issues. Analyses described in open literature study tooth contact neglecting the effect of lubrication. In reality, contact mechanics and lubrication are closely inter-linked, requiring an integrated approach. This paper outlines a combined FEA-based TCA model with a lubricated contact mechanics analysis for real gear pairs measured from coordinate measuring machine (CMM), thus improving the prediction of gear pair efficiency, NVH and durability. An initial dry gear analysis with an estimated constant coefficient of friction in the contact is carried out. The results of this initial analysis provide input data for a subsequent tribological model in order to generate improved estimates of the contact friction for a new TCA. This approach leads to the integration of TCA and lubrication in an iterative manner.