Numerical Modeling and Analysis of Piston Lubrication for Flexible Bodies Through Elastohydrodynamics and Modal Reduction Method

An analysis for operating characteristics of piston lubrication system is performed based on the numerical model in the area of fluid-structure interaction. A numerical model with an integration of elastohydrodynamics and multi-flexible-body dynamics (MFBD) is developed to analyze lubrication characteristics such as oil film thickness and pressure. In particular, elastic deformation of components in piston lubrication system through modal reduction method is reflected on elastohydrodynamic analysis. The oil film pressure evaluated from elastohydrodynamic analysis is used as external force to calculate the elastic deformation of flexible bodies in multi-flexible-body dynamics (MFBD) again. A series of process proposed in this study is available for the analysis of realistic elastohydrodynamic lubrication phenomenon. Moreover, asperity contact effect is also implemented. Finally, a numerical example for the piston lubrication system is also demonstrated.