Simulation and analysis of the steady-state temperature field of a three-stage planetary gear system

The planetary gear system generates a lot of heat due to friction between the meshing surfaces during operation, which leads to a rise in temperature and harsh service conditions for the system. This study investigates the steady-state temperature field of planetary gear systems by analyzing gear meshing parameters, tooth surface heat flux density, and convective heat transfer coefficients. Simulation results based on the actual gear system structure reveal distinct thermal patterns: in first and third-stage systems, peak temperatures occur at the sun gear root, while the second-stage system shows maximum temperature at the sun gear tip. Across all stages, temperature distribution follows a consistent hierarchy with sun gears being hottest, followed by planetary gears, while ring gears remain coolest.