EV motors and transmissions operate at high speeds and handle high power densities, placing heavy demands on bearings, seals, and gears.
TEHD and meshless CFD simulations open new ways to the design and optimization of lubrication and thermal management solutions for EV transmissions and e-axles. Properly parametrized CAE models can provide valuable insights into the effects of different lubricant properties on cooling and lubrication efficiencies, thereby helping in matching the lubricant and hardware characteristics for optimal performance.
In the present communication, we demonstrate the effects of different lubricants and surface finishing technologies on the tribology of high-speed gears using tribological tests and simulations. Important roles of lubricity additives and surface finish optimization are highlighted in conjunction with a move towards ultralow viscosity fluids.