Work

Numerical calculation and experimental study of the influence of solid lubrication coating on the contact stiffness of planetary gears

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study focuses on the stability and control precision issues faced by planetary gear transmission systems in the aerospace field under complex operating conditions, with a particular emphasis on investigating the regulatory mechanism of solid lubrication coatings on gear contact stiffness and dynamic performance. Based on the extended Hertz contact theory and potential energy method, coupled with the elastohydrodynamic model, an analysis model for the coating gear contact stiffness was developed, and its validity was verified through finite element simulation. The theoretical and simulation results showed high consistency in terms of periodic characteristics and stiffness trends. Two solid lubrication coatings with different preparation processes (such as molybdenum disulfide and manganese phosphate coatings) were compared with uncoated gears in the experiment. Using a custom-designed planetary gear test rig, vibration signals were collected and frequency domain analysis was conducted to reveal the effect of coatings on gear meshing stiffness. The study indicates that the coating significantly improves the dynamic stability of gear contact stiffness by regulating the elastic modulus and thickness of the contact area. This study combines theoretical modeling with engineering experiments to systematically elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of coating properties on gear contact stiffness. It provides theoretical support for the surface modification design and life prediction of high-reliability transmission systems in spacecraft, especially in optimizing structural stability under extreme environments.

Source: Results in Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.rineng.2025.108350

Authors: Haowen Zhao, Libin Zang, Dong Zhen, Guojin Feng, Baoshan Zhao, Hongxiang Jing, Puguang Ji

Institutions: Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin University

Language: English

Topic: Gear and Bearing Dynamics Analysis

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,940