Friction reduction in mixed lubrication

Minimization of frictional losses in the drivetrain of heavy-duty vehicles is important from both consumer satisfaction and environmental perspectives. Approaches to friction reduction in these components can be evaluated using simulation-based investigations. However, nearly all drivetrain components operate in the mixed lubrication regime which is difficult to model because both hydrodynamic lubrication and surface contact are significant and therefore, the total friction consists of hydrodynamic friction due to lubricant shearing and boundary film friction at asperity contact locations. Recent advances in simulation methods for mixed elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) have enabled improved virtual design tools, such as those developed by Zhu and Hu and further improved by Liu et al. Here, these simulation tools are used to evaluate friction reduction and predict the effects on a mixed EHL interface under severe operating conditions. Three practical means of friction reduction are discussed based on the experimentally validated mixed lubrication friction model and its predictions made for representative, sample cases.