This article describes a design method for improving the mechanical efficiency in a small vane pump, which is driven by an electric motor with a battery for a conventional vehicle. An aim of designing is a decrease in friction torque without decreasing the volumetric efficiency. The influence of two important factors concerning the friction torque, i.e. the dimensions of pump parts such as a cam ring, a rotor and a vane, and the coefficient of friction between the cam contour and the vane tip on the mechanical efficiency is clarified in two stages. In the experimental analysis, the coefficient of friction between the vane and the cam contour in the actual pumps is estimated and the influence of the pump-operating conditions such as oil temperature is also investigated. Furthermore, the relationship between the coefficient of friction and the mechanical efficiency is demonstrated. Ultimately, through the two improvements, the newly designed small-vane pump with a displacement of 1.25 cm3/rev. for the electric motor drive has good volumetric and mechanical efficiencies.
