An Investigation of the Transient Thermal Analysis of Spur Gears

Abstract

A finite element computer program has been developed for evaluating the transient behavior of surface temperature in high performance spur gears. The program is an extension of a previously developed code that was limited to steady-state behavior. The time dimension is implemented using two- and three-point finite difference schemes. The different schemes are provided to the user for the purpose of numerical stability and convergence studies. A detailed explanation of the gear cooling process leading to the establishment of a modified Blok model is also included. Other conventional models for approximating the heat transfer coefficients are available for comparison. Preliminary results are given showing snap shots of gear temperature contours at the initial stages of tooth engagement.