Transmission Efficiency Model and Experiment of High-speed Reducer

doi:10.3901/JME.2025.19.054

Abstract

Abstract: High-speed reducers are essential components in new energy vehicles, with their power loss and transmission efficiency directly impacting vehicle performance and reliability. A transmission efficiency model for the splash-lubricated high-speed reducer is proposed, considering gear meshing, oil splashing drag, and bearing power consumption. Gear meshing power losses are calculated using dynamics theory with friction models under elastohydrodynamic lubrication. Churning power losses are evaluated via a gas-liquid two-phase flow model. An experimental setup is designed and conducted for efficiency testing of reducers with input speeds up to 16 000 r/min, thereby validating the proposed model. Results indicate that oil splashing drag and lubrication deterioration significantly reduce efficiency at high speeds, with optimal efficiency shifting to higher speeds as torque increases. Additionally, tooth profile and lubrication conditions have substantial effects on transmission efficiency. Optimizing pressure angles and tooth height coefficients, along with designing appropriate oil immersion depths and thermal equilibrium temperatures, can effectively reduce system power loss and enhance transmission efficiency.

Key words: high-speed reducer, transmission efficiency, meshing power loss, churning power loss

CLC Number:

TH13

HOU Shengwen, ZHOU Changjiang, XIA Ningwei, DONG Fan. Transmission Efficiency Model and Experiment of High-speed Reducer[J]. Journal of Mechanical Engineering, 2025, 61(19): 54-62.

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