Numerical investigations on the lubrication characteristics of involute harmonic gears
Industrial Lubrication and Tribology
ISSN: 0036-8792
Article publication date: 24 October 2023
Issue publication date: 22 November 2023
Abstract
Purpose
Harmonic gears always work under different operating conditions and may usually break down due to lubrication failures, while its lubrication mechanism is still not clearly understood. This paper aims to present a lubrication model comprehensively considering the influence of contact geometry, lubrication properties and three-dimensional (3D) real surface roughness to analyze the lubrication performance under different conditions.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on the discrete convolution-fast Fourier transformation with duplicated padding and quasi-system numerical methods, the lubrication model for harmonic gears is developed, which is verified by comparing results with available lubrication data.
Findings
The effects of meshing process, working conditions and 3D roughness on the lubrication characteristics are discussed. From the calculated cases, the increase in rotational speed and decrease of applied torque may increase the film thickness, enhancing the lubrication performance of harmonic gears. It is also observed that proper surface roughness can be used for lubrication design.
Originality/value
The research results can provide theoretical guidance for improving lubrication performance and reducing friction/wear of the harmonic gear interfaces. This study can be promoted to various engineering scenarios of harmonic gears, such as industrial robots, space-driven agencies and precision measuring instruments.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge the support from Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation (2021A1515110576), Shenzhen Science and Technology Program (JCYJ20220530145609021), and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities, Sun Yat-sen University (22qntd1708).
Citation
Shen, Y., He, T. and Gong, X. (2023), "Numerical investigations on the lubrication characteristics of involute harmonic gears", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 75 No. 10, pp. 1149-1160. https://doi.org/10.1108/ILT-05-2023-0148
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2023, Emerald Publishing Limited