Elastohydrodynamic principles applied to the design of helicopter components

Abstract

Elastohydrodynamic principles affecting the lubrication of transmission components are presented and discussed. Surface temperature of the transmission bearings and gears affect elastohydrodynamic film thickness. Traction forces and sliding as well as the inlet temperature determine surface temperatures. High contact ratio gears cause increased sliding and may run at higher surface temperatures. Component life is a function of the ratio of elastohydrodynamic film thickness to composite surface roughness. Lubricant starvation reduces elastrohydrodynamic film thickness and increases surface temperatures. Methods are presented which allow for the application of elastohydrodynamic principles to transmission design in order to increase system life and reliability.