A 3-D CFD Performance Simulation of a Feedback Controlled Variable Displacement Vane Pump

Variable Displacement Vane Pumps (VDVPs) are widely used in lubrication systems for engines, transmissions, and electric drive units. This study presents a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis of a rotational VDVP, coupled with an Oil Control Valve (OCV), to establish a feedback loop that regulates the eccentricity of the cam ring, and consequently, the pump’s outlet flow rate. In previous studies, Simerics-MP+ has been successfully utilized to model the VDVP without considering the OCV’s effect. The OCV consists of a solenoid valve coupled with a spring-loaded spool valve. Due to the absence of the actual valve geometry, the valve behavior in the CFD model is represented by a 2-D table that correlates the control chamber flow rate with both the supply and control pressures. The eccentricity of the cam ring is determined through an iterative process, balancing fluid torques from the vane chamber pressures and control chamber pressure, along with the spring torque. Simulation results for the solenoid valve at 0% and 100% Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) conditions align well with the test data, staying within acceptable limits. This simulation methodology can be extended to model other VDVP applications.